Banking, finance, and taxes

Morgan Stanley Whiffs on Q2 Despite Bottom-Line Beat

Stephen Chernin / Getty Images

Morgan Stanley (NYSE: MS) released its second-quarter financial results before the markets opened on Thursday. The investment bank said that it had $1.23 in earnings per share (EPS) and $10.2 billion in revenue, which compares with consensus estimates of $1.14 in EPS and revenue of $9.99 billion. The same period of last year reportedly had EPS of $1.30 on $10.61 billion in revenue.

In terms of its business segments, Morgan Stanley reported as follows:

  • Investment Banking revenues decreased 11% year over year to $1.59 billion.
  • Trading revenue decreased 17% to $2.73 billion.
  • Investments revenue increased by 200% to $441 million.
  • Commissions and Fees decreased by 6% to $979 million.
  • Asset Management revenue increased 1% to $3.22 billion.
  • Other revenue increased 4% to $253 million.

For the quarter, book value per share was $44.13 and tangible book value per share was $38.44.

James P. Gorman, board chair and chief executive, commented:

We reported solid quarterly results across all our businesses. Firmwide revenues were over $10 billion and we produced an ROE within our target range, demonstrating the stability of our franchise. We remain focused on serving our clients and pursuing growth opportunities while diligently managing expenses.

Shares of Morgan Stanley traded up about 1% early Thursday to $44.28. The 52-week range is $36.74 to $51.53. The consensus price target is $53.62.


Get Ready To Retire (Sponsored)

Start by taking a quick retirement quiz from SmartAsset that will match you with up to 3 financial advisors that serve your area and beyond in 5 minutes, or less.

Each advisor has been vetted by SmartAsset and is held to a fiduciary standard to act in your best interests.

Here’s how it works:
1. Answer SmartAsset advisor match quiz
2. Review your pre-screened matches at your leisure. Check out the advisors’ profiles.
3. Speak with advisors at no cost to you. Have an introductory call on the phone or introduction in person and choose whom to work with in the future

Get started right here.

Thank you for reading! Have some feedback for us?
Contact the 24/7 Wall St. editorial team.