Truist, formed from the merger of BB&T and SunTrust, has struggled to deliver promised returns since the merger closed nearly six years ago. Investors have shown displeasure, with the stock only up about 7% in the past five years. There are safer bets in the stock market than Truist.

When banks merge, challenges arise with the need to destroy tangible book value and integrate complex systems. Truist promised efficiency and return metrics that have not been met. Bank of America, on the other hand, offers stronger performance and growth potential, making it a better investment option.

Before buying stock in Bank of America, consider other top stock picks identified by the Motley Fool Stock Advisor team. Bank of America may not be one of their top 10 picks, and historical returns show significant growth potential with their recommendations.

Read more at Nasdaq: You Can Do Way Better Than Truist Financial Stock. Buy and Hold This Forever, Instead.