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With a market cap of around $41 billion, MSCI Inc. (MSCI) is a leading provider of research-based data, analytics, and indexes that help global investors understand risks and opportunities across financial markets. By connecting participants across the financial ecosystem through advanced technology and a common language, MSCI enables clients to make informed decisions, drive innovation, and unlock new opportunities.
The data and analytics provider's shares have underperformed the broader market over the past 52 weeks. MSCI stock has fallen marginally over this time frame, while the broader S&P 500 Index ($SPX) has rallied 20.5%. Moreover, shares of the company are down 1.8% on a YTD basis, compared to SPX’s 12.1% gain.
Looking closer, shares of the New York-based company have lagged behind the State Street Financial Select Sector SPDR ETF’s (XLF) 9.1% rise over the past 52 weeks and a nearly 5% YTD return.
MSCI shares tumbled 10.1% on Jul. 21 after the company raised its 2026 operating expense forecast to $1.54 billion - $1.58 billion, citing acquisition costs, higher employee incentives and increased investment spending. Operating expenses rose 9.2% to $379.5 million and interest expense surged nearly 48% because of higher debt levels, raising concerns. Although Q2 2026 adjusted EPS of $4.94 matched estimates and index asset-based fees jumped 26.6% to $233.1 million, investors focused on the higher cost outlook and its impact on profitability.
For the fiscal year ending in December 2026, analysts expect MSCI’s adjusted EPS to grow 13.5% year-over-year to $19.61. The company’s earnings surprise history is promising. It beat the consensus estimates in each of the last four quarters.
Among the 19 analysts covering the stock, the consensus rating is a “Strong Buy.” That’s based on 14 “Strong Buy” ratings, two “Moderate Buys,” two “Holds,” and one “Strong Sell.”
This configuration is slightly more bullish than three months ago, with 13 “Strong Buy” ratings on the stock.
On Jul. 22, JPMorgan cut its MSCI price target to $700 while maintaining an “Overweight” rating.
The mean price target of $690.44 represents a 22.5% premium to MSCI’s current price levels. The Street-high price target of $805 suggests a 42.9% potential upside.
