Moelis & Co
NYSE:MC
Moelis & Co
Founded in 2007 during a period of significant financial upheaval, Moelis & Co. charted its own course through turbulent waters, establishing itself as a stalwart in the investment banking arena. Specializing in providing strategic advice on mergers, acquisitions, recapitalizations, restructurings, and other critical financial matters, the firm has built a reputation for its sharp focus on advisory services. Unlike larger Wall Street banks engaged in a range of financial activities, Moelis & Co. prides itself on being an independent advisory-focused institution, insulating its advisory services from potential conflicts of interest that may arise in firms with trading and lending operations. This clear-cut focus enables the firm to offer unbiased advice, which has resonated well with a discerning clientele.
The firm's revenue streams primarily flow from the fees charged for its advisory services. Working closely with companies, governments, and financial sponsors worldwide, Moelis & Co. leverages its extensive network and deep industry insight to tailor strategies that align with its clients' goals. These engagements often involve providing meticulous guidance through complex transactions, ensuring that clients can navigate their challenges with precision. The nature of their work implies that income may fluctuate with the ebbs and tides of deal-making cycles in the financial markets, yet the firm's agile model and seasoned advisors have consistently steered it towards sustainable profitability. This approach not only fortifies its standing in the market but also underscores its mission to build enduring client relationships founded on trust and integrity.
Founded in 2007 during a period of significant financial upheaval, Moelis & Co. charted its own course through turbulent waters, establishing itself as a stalwart in the investment banking arena. Specializing in providing strategic advice on mergers, acquisitions, recapitalizations, restructurings, and other critical financial matters, the firm has built a reputation for its sharp focus on advisory services. Unlike larger Wall Street banks engaged in a range of financial activities, Moelis & Co. prides itself on being an independent advisory-focused institution, insulating its advisory services from potential conflicts of interest that may arise in firms with trading and lending operations. This clear-cut focus enables the firm to offer unbiased advice, which has resonated well with a discerning clientele.
The firm's revenue streams primarily flow from the fees charged for its advisory services. Working closely with companies, governments, and financial sponsors worldwide, Moelis & Co. leverages its extensive network and deep industry insight to tailor strategies that align with its clients' goals. These engagements often involve providing meticulous guidance through complex transactions, ensuring that clients can navigate their challenges with precision. The nature of their work implies that income may fluctuate with the ebbs and tides of deal-making cycles in the financial markets, yet the firm's agile model and seasoned advisors have consistently steered it towards sustainable profitability. This approach not only fortifies its standing in the market but also underscores its mission to build enduring client relationships founded on trust and integrity.
Record Revenue: Moelis reported record fourth quarter revenue of $488 million, and full year revenue rose 28% to $1.54 billion, driven mainly by strong M&A and capital markets activity.
Operating Leverage: The firm saw meaningful operating leverage, with the adjusted compensation ratio improving by 320 basis points to 65.8% for the full year.
Strategic Hiring: Moelis expanded its team significantly, adding 21 managing directors and promoting 13 more, bringing the total to 178 MDs.
Capital Return: The company returned $284 million to shareholders in 2025 and authorized a new $300 million share buyback program.
Positive Outlook: Management expressed optimism for 2026, citing near-record pipelines, increasing sponsor activity, and continued opportunity across business lines.
PCA Ramp: The private capital advisory business is ramping up and expected to contribute more meaningfully to revenues in 2026.
