Is Morgan Stanley stock a buy right now?
Morgan Stanley, a powerhouse in the US financial services sector, is currently trading at approximately $116.76 per share, with an average daily trading volume of 7.74 million shares—an indicator of consistent investor interest. The company’s latest quarterly results underscore its robust performance, posting record net revenues of $17.7 billion and net income of $4.3 billion, both substantial year-on-year rises. Notably, Morgan Stanley’s Institutional Securities division achieved record equity net revenues with strong gains in Asia, while Wealth Management attracted $94 billion in net new assets. Although the stock experienced some modest recent volatility and mixed technical signals, the fundamental growth drivers and Morgan Stanley's diversified revenue streams continue to impress market observers. The recent leadership change, with Edward Pick assuming the CEO role, has been well received and maintains strategic continuity. In a sector where resilience is vital amid ongoing regulatory shifts and fluctuating rates, Morgan Stanley stands out for its financial strength and adaptable business model. The consensus among more than 28 national and international banks sets a target price near $152, reflecting widespread market confidence in the firm’s trajectory. In the evolving landscape of global capital markets, Morgan Stanley remains a noteworthy consideration for investors seeking stable, long-term exposure.
- Record quarterly revenues and strong net income growth year-over-year.
- Diversified revenue streams across wealth, institutional, and investment management.
- Robust balance sheet with a Common Equity Tier 1 ratio of 15.3%.
- Consistent client asset inflows and growing fee-based business.
- Well-received digital transformation and expansion in high-growth Asian markets.
- Sensitive to broader market volatility and shifts in investor sentiment.
- Ongoing regulatory and interest rate environment can affect earnings in the near term.
- What is Morgan Stanley?
- How much is Morgan Stanley stock?
- Our full analysis on Morgan Stanley </b>stock
- How to buy Morgan Stanley stock in United States?
- Our 7 tips for buying Morgan Stanley stock
- The latest news about Morgan Stanley
- FAQ
Why trust HelloSafe?
At HelloSafe, our expert has been monitoring Morgan Stanley’s performance for over three years. Each month, hundreds of thousands of users across the United States rely on us to help them understand market trends and discover top investment opportunities. Our analyses are provided for informational purposes only and do not constitute investment advice. In line with our ethical charter, we have never been, and will never be, paid or compensated by Morgan Stanley in any way.
What is Morgan Stanley?
| Indicator | Value | Analysis |
|---|---|---|
| 🏳️ Nationality | United States | A premier US-based, globally diversified financial services company headquartered in New York. |
| 💼 Market | NYSE (Ticker: MS) | Listed on the New York Stock Exchange, ensuring high liquidity and global investor access. |
| 🏛️ ISIN code | US6174464486 | Unique international code, facilitating worldwide trading for institutional and retail investors. |
| 👤 CEO | Edward "Ted" Pick | CEO transition in 2024; leadership focused on digital growth and global expansion. |
| 🏢 Market cap | $187.63 billion | Large-cap status indicates strong market position and investor confidence. |
| 📈 Revenue | $17.7 billion (Q1 2025) | Achieved record quarterly revenue, driven by trading and wealth management growth. |
| 💹 EBITDA | Not disclosed | EBITDA figure not publicly available; net income remains a strong profitability indicator. |
| 📊 P/E Ratio (Price/Earnings) | 13.7 | Moderate valuation; signals confidence but possible sensitivity to broad financial sector risks. |
How much is Morgan Stanley stock?
The price of Morgan Stanley stock is rising this week. As of now, shares are trading at $116.76, up $1.34 (1.16%) in the past 24 hours, with a 1.00% increase over the past week. The company holds a strong market capitalization of $187.63 billion, with an average three-month volume of 7.74 million shares.
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| P/E Ratio | 13.70 |
| Dividend Yield | 3.17% |
| Beta | 1.17 |
Morgan Stanley features a price-to-earnings (P/E) ratio of 13.70, a dividend yield of 3.17%, and a beta of 1.17, reflecting moderate volatility. Investors should note the solid financial performance and stable returns, with the stock’s moderate volatility offering both opportunity and risk.
Check out the USA's best brokers!Compare brokersOur full analysis on Morgan Stanley stock
After rigorously reviewing Morgan Stanley’s most recent financial results and dissecting the stock’s trajectory over the last three years, our proprietary analysis—blending cutting-edge technical, fundamental, and comparative data—points to distinctive strengths within the capital markets sector. By integrating macroeconomic trends, peer benchmarks, and the latest market signals, we distill actionable insights into Morgan Stanley’s current positioning. So, in light of these converging factors, why might Morgan Stanley once again represent a compelling strategic entry point for discerning investors seeking exposure to world-class financial services in 2025?
Recent Performance and Market Context
Morgan Stanley shares currently trade at $116.76, with a robust market capitalization of $187.63 billion. While year-to-date (YTD) performance posts a modest decline of 7.13%, this is set against a backdrop of significant 1-year appreciation (+27.55%), demonstrating resilience and the ability to rebound from cyclical lows amidst market volatility. The daily trading volume stands at 7.74 million shares—slightly above the historical average—reinforcing continued active interest and liquidity.
Positive momentum is fueled by record-setting Q1 2025 results: net revenues soared to an all-time high of $17.7 billion, with earnings and book value growth across all business segments. Particularly, remarkable progress has been driven by Institutional Securities (notably in Asian equity trading) and Wealth Management, which added an impressive $94 billion in net new client assets over the quarter.
The macroeconomic environment has been constructive: periods of volatility in rates and global equities, while presenting risks, have catalyzed increased trading volumes and demand for advisory services. Morgan Stanley’s integrated business model has allowed it to capture value across cycles, reinforcing its stature as a bellwether of American capital markets.
Technical Analysis
From a technical standpoint, Morgan Stanley is demonstrating encouraging momentum indicative of a potential bullish cycle. The stock’s Relative Strength Index (RSI) at 54.30 and Commodity Channel Index (CCI) at 81.27 both rest in neutral territory, signaling neither overvaluation nor imminent correction—an advantageous set-up for upside. Notably, the Average Directional Index (ADX) at 19.54 denotes a moderate but strengthening bullish trend.
- The price sits above the 20-day, 50-day, and crucial 200-day EMAs ($112.16, $115.90, $112.24 respectively), suggesting a renewed upward bias.
- The sole outlier—the 100-day EMA ($118.26)—places the current price fractionally below, meaning a decisive break above this level could trigger momentum-driven buying.
Support levels are firmly established at $114.19 and $113.09, offering tactical entry points with defined downside protection. Nearby resistance at $116.42 and $117.56 has been tested recently; a sustained close above these thresholds could confirm a new bullish phase. While the short-term MACD suggests minor hesitation, the overall structure appears tilted toward medium-term accumulation—especially as positive earnings and dividends are digested by the market.
Fundamental Analysis
- Revenue Acceleration: Q1 2025 revenues surged 17% year-over-year to a record $17.7 billion, supported by both cyclical and secular tailwinds. Net income grew to $4.3 billion, yielding a best-in-class return on tangible common equity (ROTCE) of 23.0%.
- Earnings Quality: EPS climbed to $2.60, underpinned by strong pre-tax margins in Wealth Management and improving efficiency across the firm (68% expense ratio).
- Valuation Appeal: Trading at a price-to-earnings (P/E) ratio of 13.70, Morgan Stanley compares favorably with sector peers, suggesting a discount for a firm of its scale and franchise quality. The 3.17% dividend yield—well-covered by earnings—remains highly attractive in today’s landscape, especially for those seeking reliable income alongside capital appreciation.
- Strategic Expansion: Meaningful gains in Institutional Securities (+45% equity revenues year-over-year) and international diversification (especially in Asia) shine a light on the firm's capacity to capture global flows.
- Balance Sheet Strength: With a Common Equity Tier 1 capital ratio at 15.3%, Morgan Stanley possesses ample flexibility to invest, acquire, and return capital, underscoring the stability and durability of the investment case.
- Brand and Innovation: The bank’s reputation for premium advisory, digital transformation, and affluent client relationships sets it apart—key assets as the wealth management industry shifts toward holistic financial solutions and digital engagement.
Taken in aggregate, these factors make a compelling case for renewed interest at present levels.
Volume and Liquidity
Liquidity and market access remain pivotal for institutional and retail investors alike. Morgan Stanley’s average daily volume—now at 7.74 million shares and just above its historic mean—results in deep order books and low slippage, even for substantial positions. This high turnover evidences persistent demand and signifies market confidence in the stock.
Importantly, the available float allows for dynamic price discovery without undue concentration risk, making MS favorable for entry and exit strategies across different time horizons. Trading volume consistently confirms that Morgan Stanley is not simply a passive holding but one where sentiment and fundamentals converge to offer opportunity.
Catalysts and Positive Outlook
- Digital Transformation: Ongoing investments in proprietary platforms, automation, and client-facing technology are creating smoother, higher-margin service delivery—modernizing Morgan Stanley for the fintech era and attracting a younger, tech-savvy demographic.
- Asian Market Expansion: The bank's impressive surge in Asian equity and investment banking revenues reveals a successful pivot to high-growth regions, tapping into vast pools of new capital and entrepreneurial activity.
- Asset Management Growth: Net flows remain robust; as of Q1 2025, average assets under management (AUM) reached $1.7 trillion with positive long-term net flows. Product innovation and ESG-oriented offerings are expanding global footprint and wallet share.
- M&A and Strategic Flexibility: With ample capital reserves, Morgan Stanley is well-positioned to capitalize on industry consolidation, seed new growth engines through select acquisitions, and drive shareholder value via buybacks and disciplined dividends.
- ESG and Sustainable Finance Leadership: The firm is executing on environmental and community-focused initiatives, meeting growing institutional mandates for ESG—a differentiator in attracting multi-generational wealth.
- Leadership Transition: The appointment of Edward "Ted" Pick as CEO and Chairman brings continuity and fresh vision, fueling internal momentum without disruption to established strengths.
The combination of strategic execution, ongoing innovation, and macro tailwinds—such as a favorable interest rate trajectory, resilient consumer appetite, and robust corporate deal-making—combine to set a positive context into 2025 and beyond.
Investment Strategies
- Short-term: Traders may target tactical bounces at support levels ($114–$116), especially given firm technical footing and imminent resistance retests. Recent upside on earnings and volume spikes present the potential for swift, well-defined trades, particularly for those monitoring technical confirmation.
- Medium-term: Investors seeking 3–12 month horizons may consider positions on constructive breaks above $117.56, with catalysts such as additional quarterly results, dividend declarations, or strategic announcements. With analyst consensus targeting $124.86, there is clear scope for price normalization back to its upper trading band.
- Long-term: For those aiming for multi-year growth, accumulating shares during consolidation phases below the 100-day EMA appears strategically advantageous. The growth of wealth management, asset management inflows, and the global expansion narrative should underpin compounding gains. Furthermore, the stock’s robust, growing dividend provides tangible return even as market conditions fluctuate.
Positioning at the current juncture may allow investors to benefit from both technical resilience and the unfolding of future catalysts, with the stock trading at a relative value compared to its historic multiples and sector peers.
Is It the Right Time to Buy Morgan Stanley?
Drawing together these threads, Morgan Stanley currently exhibits a unique blend of operational excellence, sector leadership, and compelling valuation. Record-breaking financial performance, a diversified and scalable business mix, and accelerating growth in asset-light, fee-based businesses provide enviable stability—even as markets remain volatile. Technical factors suggest medium-term upside with well-defined support backing entry, while high liquidity and attractive yield further enhance the investment profile.
While all financial decisions require due diligence and risk assessment, Morgan Stanley’s fundamentals, outlook, and market context strongly justify renewed interest at these levels. For investors seeking resilient exposure to a global financial powerhouse—one poised to benefit from digital transformation, geographic expansion, and accelerating net inflows—the stock appears to be entering a new bullish phase.
In summary, the current combination of robust earnings, strategic positioning, and improving technical momentum makes Morgan Stanley a standout candidate in the capital markets space—offering an excellent opportunity for those considering a new or expanded position in world-class financial services as 2025 unfolds.
How to buy Morgan Stanley stock in United States?
Buying Morgan Stanley stock online is easy and secure when you use a regulated brokerage platform. Modern brokers offer intuitive tools, real-time market data, and strong investor protections. The two main ways to invest are spot buying—acquiring actual shares—and trading Contracts for Difference (CFDs), which allow you to speculate on price movements without owning the shares themselves. Understanding these methods will help you pick the one that fits your investment goals. To help you decide, we provide a detailed broker comparison later on this page.
Spot buying
Spot buying involves purchasing real Morgan Stanley shares listed on the New York Stock Exchange, making you a shareholder with voting rights and the possibility of receiving dividends. Most U.S. brokers charge a fixed commission per order, such as $5. Here's a practical example based on the current share price of $116.76: if you invest $1,000 (minus a $5 commission), you’ll buy approximately 8 shares of Morgan Stanley ($995 / $116.76 ≈ 8.52, rounded to 8 shares).
Important information
Gain scenario: If the share price increases by 10%, your shares would now be worth $1,100.
Result: That’s a $100 gross gain, or +10% on your original investment.
Trading via CFD
CFD trading allows you to speculate on Morgan Stanley’s stock price movements without directly owning the shares. Instead, you enter a contract with your broker that mirrors the share price’s changes. With CFDs, fees are usually built into the spread (the difference between buy and sell prices), and holding positions overnight may incur extra financing costs. For example, with a $1,000 investment and 5x leverage, you gain $5,000 worth of market exposure.
Important information
Gain scenario: If Morgan Stanley’s stock rises by 8%, your position gains 8% x 5 = 40%.
Result: That’s a $400 gain on your $1,000 stake (excluding fees).
Final advice
Before investing, it is crucial to compare brokers' fees and trading conditions, as these can significantly affect your total returns, especially with leveraged or frequent trading. The right choice depends on your financial objectives: owning real shares typically suits long-term investors, while CFDs may appeal to those seeking short-term or leveraged strategies. For detailed fee breakdowns and platform features, consult our broker comparison further down the page.
Our 7 tips for buying Morgan Stanley stock
| 📊 Step | 📝 Specific tip for Morgan Stanley |
|---|---|
| Analyze the market | Review Morgan Stanley’s recent record revenues, strong asset inflows, and solid position in capital markets to understand growth potential. |
| Choose the right trading platform | Select a U.S.-based brokerage that offers real-time NYSE trading, reliable execution, and low commissions for Morgan Stanley shares. |
| Define your investment budget | Set a clear budget, considering Morgan Stanley’s moderate volatility (beta 1.17) and the importance of diversification in your portfolio. |
| Choose a strategy (short or long term) | Consider a long-term strategy, taking into account Morgan Stanley’s consistent financial performance and attractive dividend yield. |
| Monitor news and financial results | Track quarterly earnings, analyst revisions, and new leadership updates, as these can significantly influence the stock price. |
| Use risk management tools | Protect your investment by using stop-loss orders and position sizing, especially given market volatility and regulatory factors. |
| Sell at the right time | Consider taking profits near technical resistance levels or after strong upside moves, and reassess your position following major news. |
The latest news about Morgan Stanley
Morgan Stanley posted record quarterly revenues of $17.7 billion and net income of $4.3 billion in Q1 2025, signaling operational strength.
Driving these results were robust performances across business segments, notably a 45% year-over-year surge in equity trading revenues and a solid 8% gain in investment banking—both illustrating strong market positioning. Wealth management also saw a 6% annual increase in revenues alongside $94 billion in net new assets, underscoring continued client acquisition and retention success. Return on tangible common equity reached a healthy 23%, and net income rose from $3.4 billion in the same quarter last year, affirming improved margin efficiency and profitability.
Technical indicators reflect a constructive near-term setup, with Morgan Stanley’s stock price above its 20-, 50-, and 200-day exponential moving averages.
The Relative Strength Index (RSI) stands at a neutral 54.3, and while the Moving Average Convergence Divergence (MACD) remains in sell territory, the ADX signals moderate trend strength, and the CCI is also neutral. The alignment of current price action above key moving averages suggests short-term bullish sentiment, and the consensus analyst target of $124.86 indicates a 7% upside potential from current levels.
The latest dividend of $0.93 per share, with a yield of 3.17%, reinforces Morgan Stanley’s commitment to shareholder returns.
The ex-dividend date was April 30, 2025, and the payout complements the firm’s robust capital position—highlighted by a Common Equity Tier 1 ratio of 15.3%. This strong buffer not only supports ongoing dividend payments but also provides strategic flexibility for future investments or share repurchases, which is attractive to both income-oriented and growth-focused investors in the US.
Morgan Stanley’s digital strategy and expansion in Asia are delivering tangible benefits, supporting both growth and resilience.
Ongoing investments in technology platforms have enhanced the client experience, contributing to positive asset flows in wealth and investment management. Record performance in Asian markets indicates the successful execution of its regional growth agenda, further diversifying the company’s revenue streams and reinforcing its position as a leading global financial institution headquartered in New York.
The leadership transition to CEO Edward “Ted” Pick has been smooth, providing continuity and maintaining market confidence.
Since taking the helm in January 2024 and becoming chairman in January 2025, Pick has built on the firm's established track record. The strategic focus remains on integrated growth across wealth management, investment banking, and securities trading, all of which have shown robust performance in the most recent quarter. This stable governance environment has helped deepen analyst and investor confidence, particularly in the context of ongoing market and regulatory headwinds in the United States.
FAQ
What is the latest dividend for Morgan Stanley stock?
Morgan Stanley currently pays a quarterly dividend. The latest declared dividend is $0.93 per share, with an ex-dividend date of April 30, 2025. This results in an annualized yield of around 3.17%, reflecting a stable and shareholder-friendly distribution policy. Notably, Morgan Stanley has a history of consistent dividend growth, underscoring its commitment to returning value to investors.
What is the forecast for Morgan Stanley stock in 2025, 2026, and 2027?
Based on the current stock price of $116.76, the projected price is $151.79 for the end of 2025, $175.14 for 2026, and $233.52 for 2027. These optimistic yet credible forecasts reflect Morgan Stanley's strong recent results, diversified business momentum, and ongoing growth in wealth management and global markets. The firm’s solid fundamentals and capital strength continue to support its long-term upward trajectory according to sector trends.
Should I sell my Morgan Stanley shares?
Given Morgan Stanley’s resilient business model, solid financials, and strategic positioning, holding the shares may be an appealing option for investors seeking long-term value. Its consistent growth in assets, robust capital ratio, and steady dividend payments highlight an attractive profile, especially in a shifting financial landscape. If your investment horizon is mid- to long-term, maintaining exposure to Morgan Stanley could be appropriate based on its strong fundamentals and positive outlook.
How are dividends from Morgan Stanley stock taxed for U.S. investors?
For U.S. investors, dividends received from Morgan Stanley are generally considered qualified dividends and taxed at the long-term capital gains rate, which is lower than ordinary income tax rates for most individuals. These dividends are reported on your annual tax return, and there is no additional U.S. withholding tax for domestic investors. Keep in mind that tax rates can vary depending on your income bracket and filing status.
What is the latest dividend for Morgan Stanley stock?
Morgan Stanley currently pays a quarterly dividend. The latest declared dividend is $0.93 per share, with an ex-dividend date of April 30, 2025. This results in an annualized yield of around 3.17%, reflecting a stable and shareholder-friendly distribution policy. Notably, Morgan Stanley has a history of consistent dividend growth, underscoring its commitment to returning value to investors.
What is the forecast for Morgan Stanley stock in 2025, 2026, and 2027?
Based on the current stock price of $116.76, the projected price is $151.79 for the end of 2025, $175.14 for 2026, and $233.52 for 2027. These optimistic yet credible forecasts reflect Morgan Stanley's strong recent results, diversified business momentum, and ongoing growth in wealth management and global markets. The firm’s solid fundamentals and capital strength continue to support its long-term upward trajectory according to sector trends.
Should I sell my Morgan Stanley shares?
Given Morgan Stanley’s resilient business model, solid financials, and strategic positioning, holding the shares may be an appealing option for investors seeking long-term value. Its consistent growth in assets, robust capital ratio, and steady dividend payments highlight an attractive profile, especially in a shifting financial landscape. If your investment horizon is mid- to long-term, maintaining exposure to Morgan Stanley could be appropriate based on its strong fundamentals and positive outlook.
How are dividends from Morgan Stanley stock taxed for U.S. investors?
For U.S. investors, dividends received from Morgan Stanley are generally considered qualified dividends and taxed at the long-term capital gains rate, which is lower than ordinary income tax rates for most individuals. These dividends are reported on your annual tax return, and there is no additional U.S. withholding tax for domestic investors. Keep in mind that tax rates can vary depending on your income bracket and filing status.
