SAN DIEGO, Feb. 23, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Johnson Fistel, PLLP is investigating potential claims on behalf of investors of Jefferies Financial Group Inc. (NYSE: JEF). The investigation focuses on Jefferies’ executive officers and whether investor losses may be recovered under federal securities laws. What if I purchased Jefferies securities? If you purchased Jefferies securities and suffered losses on your investment, join our investigation now: Click here to join the investigation. Or for more informati ...

研报分析 近7天内(截至2026年2月11日)，杰富瑞通过研报参与市场热点，如评论渣打银行首席财务官离职事件， 并持续关注人工智能、黄金等主题，间接体现其投行业务的动态。 经济观察网基于截至2026年2月12日的公开信息，杰富瑞(Jefferies Financial Group,NYSE:JEF)的股票近 期有以下值得关注的事件动态，主要围绕财务发布、机构观点、研报活动及战略进展。 业绩经营情况 杰富瑞于2026年2月2日更新了2025年第四季度财务指标，包括每股收益(TTM)为0.85美元、自由现金流 19.04亿美元等。投资者可留意后续年度报告或季度财报的发布节奏，以获取最新经营数据。 机构观点 2026年2月，共有7家机构对杰富瑞发布观点，买入或增持占比达71%，反映市场对其关注度较高。同 时，杰富瑞自身作为研究机构活跃，近期发布了多项经济预测和行业评论。 以上内容基于公开资料整理，不构成投资建议。 战略推进 杰富瑞与SMBC集团的战略联盟中，SMBC计划将持股比例提升至15%，后续进展可能对公司股权结构 产生影响，值得关注。 ...

Group 1 - Morgan Stanley Investment Management plans to move eight healthcare-focused investments into a continuation vehicle and is seeking to raise $500 million for this new India fund strategy [1][5] - The assets involved include Omega Hospitals and RG Scientific Enterprises Pvt., with Morgan Stanley having invested in Omega in 2024 with a minority stake and acquiring a controlling stake in RG Scientific in the same year [2][5] - The continuation fundraising initiative reflects a broader trend among investment firms seeking exit routes beyond initial public offerings and mergers, with the global secondary market increasing by 48% to $240 billion in 2025 compared to the previous year [5]

Financial Performance - Jefferies reported a TTM earnings per share of $0.85, free cash flow of $1.904 billion, and a current ratio of 2.43 as of February 2, 2026, covering the fourth quarter of 2025 [1] - The company announced total revenue of $5.275 billion for the third quarter of fiscal year 2025, reflecting a year-over-year increase of 3.87% [1] Institutional Insights - In January 2026, Jefferies released multiple reports predicting gold prices could reach $6,600 per ounce and noted a shift in AI spending focus towards storage suppliers [2] - The company raised the target price for Boeing to $275 on January 12, 2026, and commented on the performance trends of technology companies like Adobe [2] Company Developments - Jefferies expanded its strategic alliance with SMBC Group in 2023, with SMBC planning to increase its stake to 15%, indicating potential future developments [3] - The company's stock faced pressure in October 2025 due to the bankruptcy of automotive parts supplier First Brands, with Jefferies publicly stating it "encountered fraud," which may continue to attract market attention [3]

Core Viewpoint - Jefferies has experienced a decline of approximately 7.4% in share price since the last earnings report, underperforming the S&P 500, raising questions about future performance leading up to the next earnings release [1] Financial Performance - Jefferies reported adjusted earnings from continuing operations of 96 cents per share for Q4 fiscal 2025, reflecting a year-over-year increase of 5.5%, surpassing the Zacks Consensus Estimate of 83 cents [2] - The net income attributable to common shareholders on a GAAP basis was $190.9 million, down from $205.7 million in the prior-year quarter [3] - For fiscal 2025, adjusted earnings from continuing operations totaled $2.94, slightly down from $2.96 in fiscal 2024, but exceeded the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $2.81 [3] Revenue and Expenses - Quarterly net revenues reached $2.07 billion, an increase from $1.96 billion in the prior-year quarter, and surpassed the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $1.93 billion [4] - Total non-interest expenses for the quarter were $1.82 billion, up from $1.65 billion in the year-ago quarter, driven by higher compensation and benefits as well as increased non-compensation expenses [5] Segment Performance - In Investment Banking and Capital Markets, net revenues were $1.88 billion, a 14.7% increase from the prior-year quarter, with investment banking net revenues rising to $1.19 billion [6] - Asset Management net revenues decreased to $187.0 million from $314.8 million in the year-ago quarter, despite an increase in asset management fees and revenues [7] Market Estimates and Outlook - There has been a 9.52% upward shift in consensus estimates over the past month, indicating positive sentiment among investors [8] - Jefferies holds a Zacks Rank 3 (Hold), suggesting an expectation of in-line returns in the coming months [11]

Core Viewpoint - Investment banks are regaining prominence as deal-making and IPO activities increase, with Morgan Stanley and Jefferies Financial Group presenting different investment opportunities [2][3]. Morgan Stanley - Morgan Stanley's investment banking (IB) fees increased by 23% in 2025 and 35% in 2024, following a decline in 2023 and 2022, indicating a strong recovery in the IB sector [3][9]. - The company has a robust trading business that has performed well due to market volatility and client activity, which is expected to continue growing [4]. - A partnership with Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group has strengthened Morgan Stanley's position in Japan, with Asia region revenues rising 23% year-over-year to $9.42 billion in 2025 [5]. - Morgan Stanley has diversified its revenue streams, with wealth and asset management contributing nearly 54% to total net revenues in 2025, up from 26% in 2010 [6]. - The company is projected to see revenue growth of 6% and 4.9% in 2026 and 2027, respectively, with earnings expected to grow by 8.4% and 7.1% in the same years [18]. Jefferies Financial Group - Jefferies' total IB fees rose by 10% in fiscal 2025 and 52% in fiscal 2024, indicating a recovery after previous declines [7]. - The company is benefiting from strategic partnerships, including a significant stake from Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group, which is expected to increase to 20% [9][10]. - Jefferies' revenue growth estimates for fiscal 2026 and 2027 are 16.5% and 16.3%, respectively, with earnings expected to jump by 50.3% and 38.1% [20]. Comparative Analysis - Morgan Stanley shares have increased by 31.8% over the past year, while Jefferies shares have decreased by 20.4%, indicating stronger investor sentiment towards Morgan Stanley [11][14]. - In terms of valuation, Jefferies is trading at a forward P/E of 13.03X, while Morgan Stanley's forward P/E is 16.46X, suggesting Jefferies is less expensive [14][16]. - Morgan Stanley's return on equity (ROE) stands at 16.92%, significantly higher than Jefferies' 7.27%, reflecting more efficient use of shareholder funds [16]. - Morgan Stanley's diversified revenue model and strong trading franchise position it as a more resilient investment compared to Jefferies, which is primarily focused on investment banking [22][23].

Credit and Market Risks - The company faces significant credit risk associated with customer and principal securities and derivative transactions, which may lead to counterparty nonperformance [75]. - Market risk is inherent in the company's operations, with fluctuations in interest rates, equity prices, and credit quality potentially impacting revenues and asset values [77]. - A considerable portion of revenues is derived from trading activities, which may incur losses due to market volatility and adverse price movements in securities [81]. - Investment banking revenues are directly related to economic conditions, with reduced expectations of U.S. economic growth potentially leading to decreased financial market activity [94]. - Revenues from asset management businesses may be negatively impacted by declining and fluctuating securities prices, affecting overall profitability [96]. - Geopolitical tensions, such as the conflict between Russia and Ukraine, could create economic disruptions and volatility in financial markets, adversely affecting the company's operations [87]. - Climate change and natural disasters may disrupt business operations and negatively impact the profitability of certain investments [90]. - Abrupt changes in market conditions could lead to decreased revenues and operational volatility, impacting overall business strategies [100]. - Unfavorable economic conditions could adversely affect demand for loans and the servicing of loans, impacting profitability [112]. Operational and Compliance Risks - The company is dependent on liquidity from subsidiaries, which may face regulatory restrictions limiting dividend payments and fund availability [84]. - The company’s risk management processes are designed to limit exposure, but there is no assurance that these measures will prevent losses [101]. - Operational risks, including failures in data processing systems, could impair liquidity and result in financial losses or regulatory intervention [107]. - Cybersecurity incidents are on the rise, posing risks to the secure processing and storage of sensitive information, which could lead to reputational damage and financial losses [113]. - The reliance on third-party service providers introduces risks related to information security and operational continuity [111]. - Employee misconduct or fraud poses risks that could lead to significant legal liability and reputational harm, impacting client retention [126]. - Compliance with the Dodd-Frank Act has resulted in significant operational costs, with ongoing expenditures expected due to complex regulatory requirements [129]. - The evolving legal and regulatory environment regarding AI may require changes in the company's operations and increase compliance risks [121]. - Regulatory changes, such as the transition to a T+1 settlement cycle, may require significant investments and could affect revenue and profitability [139]. - Compliance with financial capital holding requirements may restrict broker-dealers' ability to engage in capital-intensive activities, impacting operations [150]. - Legal liabilities from lawsuits could have a material adverse financial effect and harm the company's reputation [152]. - Changes in tax laws could significantly increase effective tax rates, adversely affecting cash flow and financial condition [153]. Financial Performance and Shareholder Returns - Net revenues for the year ended November 30, 2025, were $7.34 billion, representing a 4.4% increase from $7.03 billion in 2024 [187]. - Net earnings attributable to common shareholders decreased to $630.8 million in 2025 from $669.3 million in 2024, a decline of 5.7% [188]. - Investment banking net revenues reached $3.79 billion, up 10.0% from $3.44 billion in the previous year, with advisory revenues increasing by 18.4% to $2.15 billion [199]. - Total underwriting net revenues were $1.64 billion, reflecting a 10.3% increase compared to $1.49 billion in 2024, driven by higher debt underwriting activity [200]. - Equities net revenues were a record $1.91 billion, up 19.8% from $1.59 billion in 2024, attributed to strong client activity and market share gains [203]. - Fixed income net revenues decreased by 22.0% to $909.9 million from $1.17 billion in the prior year, impacted by lower global activity levels [205]. - The effective tax rate improved to 21.2% in 2025 from 29.2% in 2024 [188]. - The company returned an aggregate of $432.6 million to shareholders during the year ended November 30, 2025, including $374.1 million in cash dividends and $58.5 million for share repurchases [263]. Employee and Operational Changes - The financial services industry experiences high turnover, leading to increased costs for retaining skilled professionals, including guaranteed contracts and higher compensation [103]. - Competition for qualified personnel is intense, which may require significant resources to attract and retain employees, impacting financial condition and operational results [104]. - The company had 7,787 employees globally as of November 30, 2025, a slight decrease from 7,822 in 2024 [190]. - Total non-interest expenses rose to $6.47 billion, an increase of 7.4% from $6.03 billion in the prior year [224]. - Compensation and benefits expense was $3.86 billion, compared to $3.66 billion in the prior year, with a percentage of net revenues at 52.6% for 2025 [227]. Strategic Initiatives and Investments - Future acquisitions and dispositions may significantly alter the company's asset composition and business mix, affecting financial condition and securities value [124]. - The company entered into an agreement to acquire a 50% interest in Hildene Holding Company, LLC, contributing $340.0 million in cash and existing revenue share [230]. - The planned formation of a joint venture in Japan with SMBC Group is expected to launch in January 2027, integrating global equities platforms [236]. - The company completed the sale of Foursight in April 2024 as part of its strategy to liquidate legacy investments [262]. Asset and Financial Position - Total assets increased by 18.1% from $64.36 billion in 2024 to $76.01 billion in 2025 [267]. - Cash and cash equivalents rose by 15.6% from $12.15 billion in 2024 to $14.04 billion in 2025 [267]. - Financial instruments owned increased by 14.8% from $24.14 billion in 2024 to $27.72 billion in 2025, driven by client facilitation trades in corporate equity securities [268]. - Financial instruments sold, not yet purchased, grew by 21.0% from $11.01 billion in 2024 to $13.32 billion in 2025 [268]. - Total securities borrowed and purchased under agreements to resell increased by 25.0% from $13.39 billion in 2024 to $16.74 billion in 2025 [267]. - The average month-end balance of total reverse repos and stock borrows was 23.4% higher than the balance at November 30, 2025 [272]. - The company maintains a robust capital plan to support its operating model through stressed conditions, ensuring adequate financial resources [264]. - The company issued $1.5 billion aggregate principal amount of 5.500% Senior Notes due 2036 in January 2026 [265]. - The overall net inventory position increased from $13.13 billion in 2024 to $14.40 billion in 2025, primarily due to increases in derivative contracts and corporate debt [268]. - The company actively monitors its financial condition and the composition of its assets and liabilities, ensuring liquidity through daily valuation of a significant portion of its financial instruments [271].

Core Insights - Private investment funds for individuals are the fastest-growing source of capital in the $240 billion market for private secondhand stakes [1] - Secondaries accounted for approximately 40% of the $113 billion raised for evergreen funds, which cater to retail and smaller institutional investors [2] - The volume of secondaries transactions surged by 48% since 2024, reaching a record high as alternative asset managers seek retail capital amid a slowdown in institutional investments [3] Group 1 - The fair market value of secondaries in retail funds has nearly tripled since 2023, indicating a significant shift in investment strategies [4] - Seven of the ten largest buyers in the secondaries market are utilizing evergreen vehicles alongside traditional closed-end funds [4] - Retail funds initially focused on acquiring stakes in diversified portfolios, with buyers willing to pay premium prices for desirable portfolios [5] Group 2 - Retail strategies are increasingly supporting continuation funds, which allow asset managers to extend the holding period for valuable assets [6] - In 2025, secondary transactions led by limited partners, such as pensions and endowments, constituted 52% of secondary market activity, driven by the need for portfolio diversification and liquidity [7]

Market Performance - The three major U.S. stock indices closed higher, with the Nasdaq up 0.43%, the Dow Jones up 0.64%, and the S&P 500 up 0.5% [1] Technology Sector - Technology stocks showed mixed results, with Apple, Oracle, and Meta rising over 2%, while Intel fell over 5%, and AMD and Tesla dropped over 3% [2] Chinese Stocks - Most popular Chinese stocks declined, with the Nasdaq Golden Dragon China Index down 0.62%. Baidu fell over 3%, Xpeng Motors down over 2%, and Alibaba down over 1%, while Li Auto rose over 1% [2] Commodities - Gold and silver experienced significant pullbacks, with silver's gains narrowing to 2% at approximately $105 per ounce after previously rising 14%. Gold's increase shrank to less than 0.8%, priced around $5020 per ounce after a prior rise of 2.5% [2] Global Developments - SoftBank's massive data center acquisition deal reportedly fell through, with plans to acquire U.S. data center operator Switch at a valuation of $50 billion (including debt) now abandoned [3] OPEC+ Production - OPEC+ is expected to maintain its current oil production levels in March, despite ongoing turmoil in Iran and Venezuela [4] Federal Reserve Outlook - Goldman Sachs anticipates that the upcoming Federal Reserve monetary policy decision will likely have a minimal impact on the market, with only slight adjustments expected. However, news regarding Powell's successor from the White House could have a more significant effect [5] AI Industry Shift - Jefferies reports a potential shift in focus within the AI industry, moving from large-scale platforms to key component suppliers, as the AI boom has created numerous winners, particularly among the "Tech Giants" [6] Automotive Industry - Volkswagen's CEO stated that the company may abandon plans to build a new Audi factory in the U.S. unless the U.S. reduces automotive tariffs, highlighting potential challenges in U.S. manufacturing policies [7] Health Concerns - India is facing a high-risk outbreak of the Nipah virus, with a mortality rate between 40% and 75%, and no specific treatments or vaccines currently available. The virus has spread in West Bengal, with five confirmed cases reported [8]

Core Viewpoint - The global financial market witnessed a historic milestone as spot gold prices surpassed $5000 per ounce for the first time on January 26, 2026, driven by strategic asset allocation by central banks and a declining attractiveness of dollar assets due to the Federal Reserve's interest rate cuts [1][2]. Group 1: Gold Price Surge - Spot gold prices reached a high of $5020.440 per ounce, reflecting a 0.78% increase from previous levels [2]. - The surge in gold prices is primarily supported by central banks' strategic asset allocation needs, as the attractiveness of holding dollar assets diminishes during the Fed's rate-cutting cycle [2][3]. Group 2: Central Bank Gold Purchases - Global central banks are entering a new gold-buying spree, with China's gold reserves reported at 74.15 million ounces as of December 2025, marking the 14th consecutive month of increases [3]. - This trend is expected to instill long-term confidence in the market as central banks continue to bolster their gold reserves [3]. Group 3: Economic and Geopolitical Factors - Strong expectations for Fed rate cuts persist, with Goldman Sachs predicting a potential cut exceeding market expectations due to deteriorating employment conditions and rising unemployment rates [4]. - Geopolitical risks, including tensions surrounding Greenland and the situation in Iran, are contributing to increased demand for gold as a safe-haven asset [4][5]. Group 4: Future Outlook - Goldman Sachs has raised its year-end gold price target from $4900 to $5400 per ounce, citing growing demand from both private investors and central banks [4]. - The market anticipates that central banks will purchase approximately 60 tons of gold monthly, with increased holdings in gold ETFs as a result of the Fed's rate cuts [4]. Group 5: Investment Risks and Opportunities - While there may be short-term technical pullback risks for gold prices, the long-term outlook remains positive due to ongoing geopolitical risks, central bank purchasing behavior, and the continuation of the Fed's rate-cutting cycle [5][6]. - Analysts suggest that the price of gold could increase between 10% and 35% in 2026, with some forecasts reaching as high as $6600 per ounce [7].