Merrill Lynch (NYSE: MER) today announced the launch of a new web-based platform, FinanceCenter™, which allows business owners to apply for credit directly online. The new feature simplifies and speeds the application process for small and midsize business clients requesting commercial lines of credit from $100,000 to $500,000, available through Merrill Lynch Business Financial Services (ML BFS).

In addition, the new platform allows ML BFS clients to submit applications for Small Business Administration (SBA) loans, which are offered through a referral program with a non-affiliated lender.

"We are committed to helping our small and midsize business clients simplify their finances through integrated cash management, financing, investing and online business banking services," said David W. Tralka, Director of Merrill Lynch Business Financial Services. "The introduction of the FinanceCenter platform saves our clients time and allows them to apply for credit easily."

Prior to the launch of FinanceCenter, clients had to complete paper applications and submit them to a Merrill Lynch Financial Advisor for processing. To check on an application’s progress thereafter, clients had to call the Financial Advisor. The new procedure not only cuts the processing time; it also allows applicants to review the application status online anytime.

FinanceCenter is available on the Internet through the Merrill Lynch Business Center (www.businesscenter.ml.com), which also offers business financial tools. These include calculators that compare cash management, business performance, and financing alternatives to help business owners better determine their business needs.

CapitalStream’s FinanceCenter™, a patent-pending technology platform, provides tools to better manage credit risk, reduce costs, and attract new business by automating manual processes for leases, loans, lines and cards. ML BFS offers the service under an agreement with Seattle-based CapitalStream, which delivers process automation solutions for the financial services industry.

Merrill Lynch is one of the world's leading financial management and advisory companies, with offices in 38 countries and total client assets of approximately $1.4 trillion. As an investment bank, it is a leading global underwriter of debt and equity securities and strategic advisor to corporations, governments, institutions and individuals worldwide. Through Merrill Lynch Investment Managers, the company is one of the world's largest managers of financial assets. For more information on Merrill Lynch, please visit www.ml.com.

For additional information about CapitalStream visit its web site at www.capitalstream.com.

Jennifer Fox
Capital Stream, Inc.
206-548-1651
jenniferf@capitalstream.com