Morgan Stanley Achieves 125% Stock Gain Over Five Years
Written by Emily J. Thompson, Senior Investment Analyst
Updated: Feb 20 2026
0mins
Should l Buy MS?
Source: Fool
- Outstanding Stock Performance: Morgan Stanley's stock has surged 125% over the past five years, transforming into a high-return, capital-light investment bank and asset management firm, significantly enhancing its market competitiveness.
- Acquisitions Fuel Growth: During the pandemic, Morgan Stanley invested $20 billion to acquire E*TRADE and Eaton Vance, successfully positioning the company as a top asset and wealth management firm, further solidifying its market position.
- Target Return Rate Set: Morgan Stanley targets a 20% return on tangible common equity (ROTCE), which has led to the highest valuation among large banks, reflecting market recognition of its capital-light structure and strong market conditions.
- Concentrated Business Areas: Morgan Stanley's operations focus on institutional securities and asset and wealth management, with the former performing better in low-interest environments and the latter benefiting from increased assets under management, showcasing the diversity and adaptability of its business model.
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Analyst Views on MS
Wall Street analysts forecast MS stock price to rise
14 Analyst Rating
7 Buy
7 Hold
0 Sell
Moderate Buy
Current: 166.170
Low
132.00
Averages
185.00
High
219.00
Current: 166.170
Low
132.00
Averages
185.00
High
219.00
About MS
Morgan Stanley is a global financial services company. The Company is engaged in providing a range of investment banking, securities, wealth management and investment management services. Its segments include Institutional Securities, Wealth Management and Investment Management. Its Institutional Securities segment provides a variety of products and services to corporations, governments, financial institutions and ultra-high net worth clients. Its Wealth Management segment provides an array of financial services and solutions to individual investors and small to medium-sized businesses and institutions. Its Investment Management segment provides a range of investment strategies and products that span geographies, asset classes, and public and private markets to a diverse group of clients across institutional and intermediary channels. Its investment banking services consist of capital raising and financial advisory services, including the underwriting of debt and other products.
About the author
Emily J. Thompson
Emily J. Thompson, a Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) with 12 years in investment research, graduated with honors from the Wharton School. Specializing in industrial and technology stocks, she provides in-depth analysis for Intellectia’s earnings and market brief reports.
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