Meet the Team

President
Financial Advisor

Richard D. Mercado is the founder of MERC Capital. He is a Financial Advisor with MERC Capital in, Gaithersburg, Maryland. He has guided and managed the financial affairs of local families and small business owners for over 20 years. He is a native of the Washington, DC/Baltimore area, and a graduate of Towson State University in Finance and Economics.

His experience as Vice President at Morgan Stanley and Raymond James and now Wells Fargo Advisors Financial Network has given him experience in areas of wealth management, retirement and estate planning. Richard holds the Series 7, 62, 63 and 65 securities registrations.

Experienced at explaining the complexities of investment strategies in ways that are both meaningful and easy to understand, Richard takes pride in designing creative solutions for each client's individual financial situation. Client portfolios are reviewed through a disciplined and coordinated review process that is commensurate with the levels of risk defined by each client's investment objectives.

Vice President
Financial Advisor

Jason joined the team at MERC Capital from Raymond James Financial Services where he had spent 14 years, most recently as a portfolio manager. As our new Financial Advisor, Jason's passion for the financial markets will be demonstrated as he analyzes economic and financial market data, reviews client portfolios, and reports investment changes to our clients and our team's President. He will be instrumental in strengthening MERC Capital's infrastructure as we grow.

Jason's ability to communicate with clients and industry professionals in an easily understood demeanor is very welcoming. He takes a holistic view of a client's specific goals and objectives to develop and cultivate a meaningful investment plan.

He holds a master's degree in Accounting and Financial Management from Keller School of Business and a bachelor's degree in Business from Stevenson University, formally Villa Julie in Stevenson, Maryland. A state native, he and his wife currently reside in Columbia, Maryland.

Managing Partner, Financial Advisor

Securities registered since 2001, Roni brings over two decades of experience in the financial industry, having worked with Morgan Stanley and Merrill Lynch/Bank of America before joining Wells Fargo Advisors Financial Network in November 2022. 

Roni specializes in managing private wealth and 401 (k) plans and holds the PIM certification. He’s currently registered in:  Arizona, Colorado, Delaware, District of Columbia, Florida, Maryland, Massachusetts, New York, Pennsylvania, Texas, and Virginia.

Roni holds a degree in International Studies (Class of 1997) and enjoys a busy family life with his wife, who teaches at a private school, and his three sons.

Registered Client Operations Manager

Ellen joined MERC Capital’s team in early 2025 to manage Client Services and Operations.   She has been building her career since before the Tech Boom in the late 1990’s, working for several wealth management firms, including Wells Fargo Advisors.   Ellen is passionate about making a positive and meaningful difference in others’ lives. 

Ellen obtained her bachelor’s degree in social sciences from Marywood University and has been securities registered continuously since 2016.  Her expertise in systems analysis, drives Ellen’s keen focus on process improvement and client satisfaction. 

A native of New Orleans, Louisiana, Ellen was raised in upstate New York and spent many years in Florida before coming to the DC/MD/VA area in 2010.  In her spare time, she enjoys unscripted journeys to unique places, reading, sewing and being with her family.  

Client Operations Associate

As a Client Operations Associate at Merc Capital, Emma Maroules plays an essential role in supporting the team’s daily operations and aiming to deliver a seamless experience for clients. From onboarding new clients to handling account administration and supporting the advisory team, Emma aims to ensure that every detail is managed with care, efficiency, and a client-first mindset.

Emma earned her Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration with a concentration in Marketing from Towson University. Her academic background, combined with a strong eye for organization and communication, allows her to bring both precision and dedication to her work.

Outside of the office, Emma enjoys spending quality time with her friends and family and loves to travel whenever she can.

Office Manager

Christin Berkman keeps the wheels turning behind the scenes. As Office Manager, she brings organization, clarity, and calm to busy schedules and complex logistics. Whether its coordinating meetings, streamlining workflows, or handling day-to-day operations, Christin helps ensure everything runs smoothly to help ensure her team has the freedom to focus on innovation and growth.

With a strong background in administrative work and the multitasking skills that come from raising four children – she’s no stranger to juggling priorities and keeping things on track. Christin is passionate about creating order, supporting her team, and bringing a friendly, can-do attitude to everything she does.

Outside of work, Christin loves to decorate, cook and entertain her family and friends. She cherishes the time spent with loved ones!

Christin Berkman is not a registered person; she cannot offer Investment Advice or Products.

Alex is a financial services professional in training who supports clients and advisors with dedication, strong attention to detail, and a genuine passion for learning about the industry. He takes pride in creating positive, professional, and welcoming experiences in every client interaction. 

Outside the office, Alex enjoys golfing, spending time with friends, and traveling to Greece.