MSCI Inc
NYSE:MSCI
MSCI Inc
In the intricate world of investment, MSCI Inc. stands as a guiding star for asset managers and financial institutions alike. Originally derived from Morgan Stanley's Capital International division, MSCI has evolved into a prominent name in global investment decision support tools. The company's core strength lies in its ability to provide crucial data and analytics that help financial professionals understand market movements and make informed decisions. MSCI's story is one of evolution and expansion, as it continuously innovates to meet the ever-growing demands of a complex marketplace. Their products encompass a wide array of services, including indices, environmental, social, and governance (ESG) research, risk management, and portfolio analytics.
The engine behind MSCI’s financial success is its subscription-based model, spreading its roots through consistent, recurring revenue. The indices segment, which includes renowned benchmarks such as the MSCI World and MSCI Emerging Markets indices, is a cornerstone of their business, as it attracts various financial products, like ETFs, to benchmark against them. Beyond the indices, MSCI's ESG and risk analytics offerings cement its importance to clients eager to manage risks and align their investments with ethical standards. By delivering indispensable insights and data, MSCI effectively weaves itself into the fabric of asset management, ensuring its financial relevance and stability while continually seeking new areas for growth in an ever-evolving financial universe.
In the intricate world of investment, MSCI Inc. stands as a guiding star for asset managers and financial institutions alike. Originally derived from Morgan Stanley's Capital International division, MSCI has evolved into a prominent name in global investment decision support tools. The company's core strength lies in its ability to provide crucial data and analytics that help financial professionals understand market movements and make informed decisions. MSCI's story is one of evolution and expansion, as it continuously innovates to meet the ever-growing demands of a complex marketplace. Their products encompass a wide array of services, including indices, environmental, social, and governance (ESG) research, risk management, and portfolio analytics.
The engine behind MSCI’s financial success is its subscription-based model, spreading its roots through consistent, recurring revenue. The indices segment, which includes renowned benchmarks such as the MSCI World and MSCI Emerging Markets indices, is a cornerstone of their business, as it attracts various financial products, like ETFs, to benchmark against them. Beyond the indices, MSCI's ESG and risk analytics offerings cement its importance to clients eager to manage risks and align their investments with ethical standards. By delivering indispensable insights and data, MSCI effectively weaves itself into the fabric of asset management, ensuring its financial relevance and stability while continually seeking new areas for growth in an ever-evolving financial universe.
Strong Growth: MSCI delivered over 10% organic revenue growth, 13% adjusted EBITDA growth, and nearly 12% adjusted EPS growth in Q4 2025.
Product & Client Momentum: Index and Analytics segments saw record or near-record new subscription sales, with particular strength in hedge funds, wealth managers, and asset owners.
Share Buybacks: MSCI repurchased nearly $958 million of shares in Q4, and $3.3 billion over the past two years, reflecting confidence in the firm's prospects.
AI Transformation: The company is deeply integrating AI, improving internal efficiencies and launching new AI-powered products, with notable traction already achieved.
Private Capital Surge: Private Capital Solutions recurring sales grew 86%, driven by new products and strong client demand, especially in the Americas and EMEA.
Sustainability & Climate Mixed: Sustainability new sales were lower in the Americas but improving in Europe, with MSCI shifting focus to broader emerging risks beyond ESG.
Guidance & Outlook: MSCI reaffirmed long-term targets for double-digit revenue and adjusted EBITDA growth, while noting higher 2026 cash taxes and investment in growth.
Leadership Change: President Baer Pettit is retiring, with transition plans in place.
Management
Henry A. Fernandez is the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of MSCI Inc., a leading provider of critical decision support tools and services for the global investment community. He has been instrumental in the company's growth and transformation into a leading provider of innovative products and services. Fernandez joined MSCI in 1996 and played a pivotal role in its initial public offering in 2007. Before his tenure at MSCI, Fernandez had a diverse career in finance and business development. He served as a Managing Director at Morgan Stanley, where he was responsible for corporate finance, mergers, and acquisitions in various industries. Additionally, he worked as President of Hispanic Business Inc. and was a co-founder of Ferco Partners Inc., a private equity investment firm in Mexico. Fernandez has been recognized for his leadership and strategic vision, which have significantly contributed to MSCI's robust product offerings, including indexes, portfolio analytics, and ESG data and research. His role in expanding the company's international footprint has been vital in establishing MSCI as a global leader in investment decision support. He holds an MBA from the Stanford Graduate School of Business and a Bachelor of Arts in Economics from Georgetown University.
Before his tenure at MSCI, Fernandez had a diverse career in finance and business development. He served as a Managing Director at Morgan Stanley, where he was responsible for corporate finance, mergers, and acquisitions in various industries. Additionally, he worked as President of Hispanic Business Inc. and was a co-founder of Ferco Partners Inc., a private equity investment firm in Mexico.
Fernandez has been recognized for his leadership and strategic vision, which have significantly contributed to MSCI's robust product offerings, including indexes, portfolio analytics, and ESG data and research. His role in expanding the company's international footprint has been vital in establishing MSCI as a global leader in investment decision support. He holds an MBA from the Stanford Graduate School of Business and a Bachelor of Arts in Economics from Georgetown University.
C. D. Baer Pettit is a well-regarded executive known for his extensive contributions to MSCI Inc., a leading provider of critical decision support tools and services for the global investment community. In his role as President at MSCI, Pettit oversees the firm's operating businesses, including product lines related to indices, analytics, real estate, and ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) considerations. Pettit joined MSCI in 2000 and has played a pivotal role in the company's evolution and growth. He has been instrumental in various strategic initiatives that have positioned MSCI as a key player in the investment services industry. His leadership extends across multiple facets of the organization, from business development to client relationships, operational enhancements, and product innovation. Under Pettit's guidance, MSCI has expanded its offerings and reinforced its reputation for providing comprehensive and reliable data and tools that empower investment professionals to make informed decisions. He is noted for his forward-thinking approach and his ability to navigate the constantly changing landscape of financial services while fostering a culture of innovation and excellence within the company. Before his tenure at MSCI, Pettit worked in a variety of financial services roles, bringing a wealth of experience and insights to the company. His academic background includes degrees from prestigious institutions, which have equipped him with the analytical and strategic skills necessary for his leadership positions. Overall, C. D. Baer Pettit is recognized for his commitment to the growth and success of MSCI and his influence on the broader investment industry.
Pettit joined MSCI in 2000 and has played a pivotal role in the company's evolution and growth. He has been instrumental in various strategic initiatives that have positioned MSCI as a key player in the investment services industry. His leadership extends across multiple facets of the organization, from business development to client relationships, operational enhancements, and product innovation.
Under Pettit's guidance, MSCI has expanded its offerings and reinforced its reputation for providing comprehensive and reliable data and tools that empower investment professionals to make informed decisions. He is noted for his forward-thinking approach and his ability to navigate the constantly changing landscape of financial services while fostering a culture of innovation and excellence within the company.
Before his tenure at MSCI, Pettit worked in a variety of financial services roles, bringing a wealth of experience and insights to the company. His academic background includes degrees from prestigious institutions, which have equipped him with the analytical and strategic skills necessary for his leadership positions.
Overall, C. D. Baer Pettit is recognized for his commitment to the growth and success of MSCI and his influence on the broader investment industry.
Andrew Craig Wiechmann is the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) of MSCI Inc. In this role, he is responsible for overseeing the company’s global financial operations, including strategy, planning, treasury, tax, and investor relations. Prior to being CFO, Wiechmann held several key positions within the company, enhancing its financial strategy and operations. His leadership has been instrumental in aligning MSCI’s financial goals with its strategic business objectives. Before his tenure at MSCI, Wiechmann had significant experience in the financial sector, which equipped him with a robust understanding of financial markets and operational finance. His academic background includes a solid foundation in finance and business administration, further supporting his role in the financial strategy and management of a leading global provider of investment decision support tools.
Before his tenure at MSCI, Wiechmann had significant experience in the financial sector, which equipped him with a robust understanding of financial markets and operational finance. His academic background includes a solid foundation in finance and business administration, further supporting his role in the financial strategy and management of a leading global provider of investment decision support tools.
Robert J. Gutowski, J.D., is known for his role at MSCI Inc., where he plays a significant part in the legal and compliance aspects of the company’s operations. MSCI Inc. is a leading provider of critical decision support tools and services for the global investment community. As a seasoned legal expert, Gutowski brings extensive experience in navigating complex legal frameworks and regulatory environments. His expertise is instrumental in shaping the company's policies and ensuring compliance with various industry standards and regulations. He holds a Juris Doctor degree, which underscores his proficiency in legal matters, contributing to the strategic objectives and risk management of MSCI Inc. Through his leadership, the company continues to uphold its commitment to integrity and ethical business practices.
Scott A. Crum is a seasoned human resources executive, known for his extensive experience in leading HR functions across various industries. He has served as the Chief Human Resources Officer (CHRO) at MSCI Inc., where he was responsible for all aspects of human resources, including talent management, recruitment, training and development, compensation and benefits, and strategic planning for the workforce. His role was pivotal in shaping the company’s HR policies to align with its business objectives, fostering a workplace culture that promotes diversity, inclusion, and employee engagement. Prior to MSCI, Crum held significant HR leadership positions in companies such as Motorola Solutions, ITT Corporation, and Sara Lee Corporation, bringing a wealth of experience to his role in managing organizational change and driving HR excellence. His strategic vision and leadership in HR have been instrumental in adapting the workforce to meet the dynamic needs of the business environment.
Jigar Thakkar is the Chief Technology Officer and Head of Engineering at MSCI Inc. In his role, Thakkar is responsible for leading the company's global technology initiatives and driving innovation across MSCI’s offerings. His work focuses on utilizing cutting-edge technologies and data analytics to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of MSCI’s products and services. Thakkar has a rich background in technology leadership, with extensive experience in managing large-scale engineering teams and developing transformative technological solutions. Prior to joining MSCI, he held several key positions in prominent tech companies, contributing significantly to their technological infrastructures and innovation strategies. Thakkar's expertise lies in creating scalable systems and fostering a culture of continuous improvement and technological advancement within organizations.
Jeremy Harris Ulan is the Executive Vice President, Corporate Controller, and Principal Accounting Officer at MSCI Inc., a leading provider of decision support tools and services for the global investment community. In his role, Mr. Ulan is responsible for overseeing the company's financial reporting, accounting operations, and internal controls. Before joining MSCI, Mr. Ulan gained substantial experience in financial management and accounting across various sectors. He has held key positions that have leveraged his expertise in corporate finance, compliance, and strategic planning. Mr. Ulan holds a degree in Accounting and has various certifications that enhance his proficiency in the financial domain. He is recognized for his strategic leadership and has played a significant role in MSCI's financial integrity and regulatory compliance.
Before joining MSCI, Mr. Ulan gained substantial experience in financial management and accounting across various sectors. He has held key positions that have leveraged his expertise in corporate finance, compliance, and strategic planning.
Mr. Ulan holds a degree in Accounting and has various certifications that enhance his proficiency in the financial domain. He is recognized for his strategic leadership and has played a significant role in MSCI's financial integrity and regulatory compliance.
Cristina Bondolowski is recognized for her strategic leadership at MSCI Inc., where she serves as the Chief Marketing Officer. In her role, she focuses on driving marketing strategies that align with MSCI's goals and enhance its brand presence in the market. Before joining MSCI, Bondolowski had an extensive career at The Coca-Cola Company, where she held various executive positions and was instrumental in championing global brand strategies for some of the company's key products. Her background features a mix of marketing expertise and leadership skills, honed through diverse roles across international markets. Cristina’s experience extends to enhancing brand value and driving product innovation, making her a pivotal figure in MSCI's efforts to fortify their market stance and adapt to evolving industry trends. Known for her innovative approach, she contributes significantly to MSCI's broader objectives by effectively leveraging marketing initiatives to support corporate growth and client engagement.
Her background features a mix of marketing expertise and leadership skills, honed through diverse roles across international markets. Cristina’s experience extends to enhancing brand value and driving product innovation, making her a pivotal figure in MSCI's efforts to fortify their market stance and adapt to evolving industry trends. Known for her innovative approach, she contributes significantly to MSCI's broader objectives by effectively leveraging marketing initiatives to support corporate growth and client engagement.
Remy Briand is a prominent figure at MSCI Inc., where he serves as the Head of ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) and Climate. In his role, he is responsible for overseeing the development and management of ESG and climate-related products and services. Briand has been instrumental in expanding MSCI's capabilities in providing ESG research, indexes, analytical models, and real-time data to global investors. Before focusing on ESG and Climate, Remy Briand held various senior positions at MSCI. He was the Head of Research, leading the firm's global research team in developing methodologies and solutions across different asset classes. Briand has contributed significantly to the enhancement of MSCI's risk and performance analytics tools, putting the firm at the forefront of innovative financial solutions. With a strong academic background in mathematics and finance, Remy Briand has consistently advocated for integrating ESG considerations into the investment process. This advocacy reflects his belief in the importance of sustainable investing and its impact on long-term financial performance. His leadership in ESG and commitment to developing robust frameworks for evaluating environmental, social, and governance issues have positioned MSCI as a key player in the shift towards responsible investing.
Before focusing on ESG and Climate, Remy Briand held various senior positions at MSCI. He was the Head of Research, leading the firm's global research team in developing methodologies and solutions across different asset classes. Briand has contributed significantly to the enhancement of MSCI's risk and performance analytics tools, putting the firm at the forefront of innovative financial solutions.
With a strong academic background in mathematics and finance, Remy Briand has consistently advocated for integrating ESG considerations into the investment process. This advocacy reflects his belief in the importance of sustainable investing and its impact on long-term financial performance.
His leadership in ESG and commitment to developing robust frameworks for evaluating environmental, social, and governance issues have positioned MSCI as a key player in the shift towards responsible investing.
Theodore Niggli is a notable executive at MSCI Inc., a leading provider of critical decision support tools and services for the global investment community. As a strategic leader within the firm, Niggli has contributed significantly to MSCI's growth and development, particularly in enhancing their analytics and index offerings. His role typically involves overseeing operations that drive innovation and ensure the delivery of high-quality products and services to MSCI's clients worldwide. This encompasses managing teams focused on research, product development, and client engagement. With a robust background in finance and technology, Niggli leverages his expertise to navigate complex market dynamics and align MSCI's strategies with emerging industry trends. Niggli's leadership is often characterized by a commitment to sustainability and integrating ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) considerations into financial analyses and investment processes. His efforts support MSCI's mission to provide investors with insights and tools that facilitate more informed and responsible investment decisions. Overall, Theodore Niggli is a vital part of MSCI's executive team, contributing to the company's reputation as a leader in investment decision support.
His role typically involves overseeing operations that drive innovation and ensure the delivery of high-quality products and services to MSCI's clients worldwide. This encompasses managing teams focused on research, product development, and client engagement. With a robust background in finance and technology, Niggli leverages his expertise to navigate complex market dynamics and align MSCI's strategies with emerging industry trends.
Niggli's leadership is often characterized by a commitment to sustainability and integrating ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) considerations into financial analyses and investment processes. His efforts support MSCI's mission to provide investors with insights and tools that facilitate more informed and responsible investment decisions.
Overall, Theodore Niggli is a vital part of MSCI's executive team, contributing to the company's reputation as a leader in investment decision support.
