MSCI Reports Financial Results for Fourth Quarter and Full Year 2025

Core Insights - MSCI Inc. reported strong financial results for the fourth quarter and full year 2025, achieving double-digit adjusted EPS growth for the 11th consecutive year and a record asset-based-fee run rate driven by ETF inflows [3][5][12]. Financial Performance - Operating revenues for Q4 2025 were $822.5 million, a 10.6% increase from Q4 2024, with organic operating revenue growth at 10.2% [5][7]. - Operating income rose to $463.6 million, up 14.4%, with an operating margin of 56.4% [9][12]. - Net income decreased by 6.8% to $284.7 million, while diluted EPS was $3.81, down 2.3% [12][67]. - Adjusted EPS increased by 11.5% to $4.66, and adjusted EBITDA was $512.0 million, up 13.2% [12][67]. Revenue Breakdown - Recurring subscription revenues increased by 7.5%, and asset-based fees rose by 20.7% [7][14]. - The Index segment saw operating revenues of $479.1 million, up 14.0%, driven by higher asset-based fees and recurring subscription revenues [13][14]. - The Analytics segment reported operating revenues of $182.3 million, a 5.5% increase, while the Sustainability and Climate segment's revenues were $90.3 million, up 5.9% [17][20]. Run Rate and Retention - Total run rate as of December 31, 2025, was $3,301.6 million, a 13.0% increase, with a retention rate of 93.4% [6][7]. - The Index run rate was $1.9 billion, up 16.2%, while the Analytics run rate was $757.4 million, up 8.4% [16][18]. Expenses and Capital Allocation - Total operating expenses were $358.9 million, up 6.1%, primarily due to higher compensation and benefits costs [7][8]. - Free cash flow for Q4 2025 was $464.8 million, up 17.8% [27]. - The company repurchased $2.47 billion worth of shares and paid $134.7 million in dividends during Q4 2025 [28][29]. Guidance for 2026 - MSCI provided guidance for full-year 2026, projecting operating expenses between $1,490 million and $1,530 million, and free cash flow between $1,470 million and $1,530 million [31][32].