MSCI Inc. reported third-quarter revenue of $892 million, up 12.4% from a year earlier, as asset-based fees generated nearly half the index provider’s revenue increase.
Asset-based fees climbed 24.9% to $246.6 million, while recurring subscription revenue rose 7.7% to $623.6 million. MSCI said higher assets in funds linked to its indexes helped lift its asset-based fee run rate.
Net income increased 7.9% to $351 million, and diluted earnings per share rose 14.4% to $4.86. MSCI released the results Oct. 20 in an earnings statement attached to a Form 8-K filed with the SEC.
Operating expenses grew 12.8% to $389.9 million, slightly faster than revenue. On a separate accounting line, MSCI said other expense (income), net, rose 45.2%, primarily because higher debt increased interest expense.
The company raised its full-year 2026 forecast for interest expense, including financing fee amortization, to $288 million to $291 million. Its previous forecast was $282 million to $286 million.
MSCI Chairman and CEO Henry A. Fernandez said recurring net new sales reached records in Analytics and Private Capital Solutions. He said Index recorded its strongest third quarter for recurring net new sales.
MSCI’s board declared a dividend of $2.05 per share Oct. 19. Shareholders of record Nov. 13 are due to receive the payment Nov. 27.
