Morgan Stanley Stock Price, News & Analysis

Investment funds managed by Morgan Stanley AIP Private Markets Secondaries Team completed an investment in Axispoint Technology Solutions Group (ATSG) through a partnership with RunTide Capital. ATSG is noted for its expertise in IT solutions and managed services for middle-market enterprises, guiding over 400 customers. The company's growth was recognized with the 2020 CRN Triple Crown Award. RunTide Capital aims to further expand ATSG, which has tripled in size since 2019, leveraging new capital to position itself as a consolidator in the IT services sector.

TruFund Financial Services has announced an equity investment in Laurel Street Residential, a minority- and women-owned real estate developer based in Charlotte, North Carolina. This investment, part of TruFund's $26 million Impact Developers Fund, aims to enhance Laurel Street's organizational capacity and expand its market presence in affordable housing. TruFund's CEO, James H. Bason, emphasized the project's community impact, which includes job creation and support for local small businesses.

Morgan Stanley's Global Sports & Entertainment division is returning as the exclusive financial education partner for the Reese's Senior Bowl, marking their seventh consecutive year of involvement. This partnership emphasizes financial literacy for professional athletes and will feature three virtual education sessions, including discussions with NFL player Brandon Copeland. The Senior Bowl, occurring on January 30, 2021, serves as a showcase for top college football talent, providing players an opportunity to enhance their visibility to NFL teams while receiving vital financial guidance.

Morgan Stanley (NYSE: MS) reported net revenues of $13.6 billion for Q4 2020, a 24% increase from $10.9 billion in Q4 2019. The net income was $3.4 billion, or $1.81 per diluted share, marking a 31% increase year-over-year. Full-year net revenues hit a record $48.2 billion, up 16%, with net income of $11 billion, or $6.46 per diluted share, up 22% compared to 2019. Institutional Securities drove strong performance, with record revenues of $25.9 billion for the year. The firm also announced a $10 billion stock repurchase program for 2021.

Morgan Stanley has appointed 171 new Managing Directors, enhancing its global financial services leadership. These appointments reflect the firm's commitment to driving growth and innovation across investment banking, securities, wealth management, and investment management services. With a presence in over 41 countries, Morgan Stanley continues to serve a diverse client base including corporations, governments, and individuals. This significant leadership change aims to strengthen operational effectiveness and client service, positioning Morgan Stanley for future success.

Morgan Stanley Private Credit acted as co-lead arranger for junior capital securities for Talent Systems LLC, facilitating the refinancing of existing debts and acquisition of Spotlight Unlimited. This move is expected to enhance Talent Systems' position in talent discovery technology for the entertainment industry. The partnership aims to provide robust support for Talent Systems' growth and strategic market positioning.

Morgan Stanley Energy Partners has completed an investment in SolMicroGrid, based in Alpharetta, Georgia. This partnership aims to enhance SolMicroGrid's growth in providing microgrid solutions via an Energy-as-a-Service model. The investment will support the development of solar-enabled microgrid systems for commercial and industrial customers, particularly in California, ensuring power resilience and cost-effectiveness. SolMicroGrid's leadership team brings significant experience in microgrid technologies, positioning the company favorably in the renewable energy sector.

On December 18, 2020, Morgan Stanley (NYSE: MS) received approval from the Federal Reserve to resume common stock repurchases in Q1 2021, allowing for up to $10 billion in buybacks throughout the year. This decision reflects the firm’s substantial capital buffer, with over 400 basis points of excess capital. CEO James P. Gorman emphasized the commitment to return capital to shareholders while maintaining capacity to invest in business operations. Repurchases will be contingent on market conditions and the firm's financial performance, aligning with regulatory capital standards.

Morgan Stanley Capital Partners (MSCP) has completed an investment in Advanced Web Technologies Holding Company (AWT), which operates as AWT Labels & Packaging and Citation Healthcare Labels. AWT, headquartered in Minneapolis, MN, is a leading provider of labels and flexible packaging solutions across several markets, including healthcare and food. This marks MSCP's third investment in the packaging sector. Eric Kanter of MSCP will become AWT's Chairman. AWT aims to leverage MSCP’s support to enhance its capabilities and expand its market reach while continuing to deliver high-quality products.