Why MSCI Stock Soared Today
Key Points
It beat on the analyst consensus estimates for both revenue and profitability.
The top line expanded at a double-digit rate, as did adjusted EPS.
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MSCI (NYSE:MSCI), a somewhat under-the-radar data and analytics company in the financial sector, attracted the right kind of attention on Tuesday. Market players were eager to own its shares following the release of solid third-quarter figures, sending the company's stock up 5%.
An estimates-topping third frame
The period saw MSCI earn $892 million in revenue, which was a sturdy 12% higher year over year. It was also comfortably above the consensus analyst estimate, which was just under $888 million.
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MSCI's net income not under generally accepted accounting principles (non-GAAP, or adjusted) also ticked higher, rising by 8% to $369 million. Adjusted earnings per share (EPS) growth was notably higher, at 14% to $5.11. Those analysts were collectively modeling $5.02.
Management attributed the notable improvements to gains in net-new sales in several business categories, higher asset-based fees, and strength in the Asia-Pacific region.
The right services at the right time
MSCI also largely maintained its guidance items for the entirety of 2026. It made changes to only a few items, including interest expense (now anticipated to hit $288 million to $291 million, from the previous forecast of $282 million to $286 million). The company hasn't provided any guidance for revenue or profitability.
In a world where the financial markets are becoming ever more complex, MSCI is doing well providing the data and analytical solutions its clients obviously need. If I were an investor, I'd be very pleased that several key parts of the company's business are rising at healthy rates these days.
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Eric Volkman has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends MSCI. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.
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