MSCI (MSCI) DIvidends Date & History

Key Takeaways

• MSCI Inc. offers a trailing dividend yield of 1.27% and forward yield of 1.44%, supported by a recent quarterly payout of $2.05 per share.
• The company has increased dividends for 12 consecutive years, with recent annual dividend growth of 12.88%.
• Payout ratio stands at approximately 46%, indicating strong sustainability backed by earnings and free cash flow coverage.
• Free cash flow payout ratio of 41.1% further supports long-term dividend reliability.
• MSCI's dividend profile is competitive among financial data peers, appealing to growth-focused income investors.

Dividend Overview

MSCI Inc. (MSCI), a leading provider of investment decision support tools including indices and analytics, maintains a quarterly dividend policy. The current trailing annual dividend is $7.20 per share, yielding 1.27%, with a forward annual dividend of $8.20 implying a 1.44% yield. The most recent ex-dividend date was February 13, 2026, with payment on February 27, 2026, at $2.05 per share. MSCI is classified as a dividend growth stock rather than a high-yield play, prioritizing consistent increases over elevated yields. Over the past five years, the average yield has been 0.99%, reflecting steady progression amid robust business growth in assets under management (AUM, total value of assets benchmarked to MSCI indices).

Dividend History and Growth

MSCI initiated its dividend in 2015 and has raised it annually for 12 consecutive years, demonstrating commitment to shareholder returns. The quarterly payout has grown from lower bases to the current $2.05, with year-over-year growth recently at 12.88%. This track record aligns with MSCI's long-term strategy of balancing reinvestment in high-margin index and analytics businesses with progressive dividend hikes, supported by recurring revenue streams. No cuts have occurred, underscoring payment consistency even through market volatility.

Dividend Sustainability and Payout Ratio

MSCI's dividend sustainability is robust, with a payout ratio of 45.89% of earnings, leaving ample room for growth and reinvestment. Cash flow coverage is strong at a 41.1% free cash flow payout ratio, bolstered by healthy free cash flow generation from its subscription-based model. Moderate debt levels and high operating margins further enhance stability, positioning the dividend for continued growth without straining finances.

Dividend Compared to Industry Peers

In the financial data and capital markets sector, MSCI's 1.3% yield is competitive. Peers like S&P Global (SPGI) offer around 0.9%, Moody's (MCO) at 0.9%, Intercontinental Exchange (ICE) at 1.3%, and Nasdaq (NDAQ) at 1.3%. MSCI's profile stands out for its growth trajectory relative to these modestly yielding comparables.

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Is This Stock Attractive for Dividend Investors?

MSCI appeals to dividend growth investors seeking reliable increases over high immediate yields, given its 12-year streak and low 46% payout ratio. Long-term holders may value the stability from recurring revenues and strong cash flow coverage, which support ongoing hikes amid growth in index licensing and analytics. Conservative income seekers might find the 1.3% yield modest compared to higher-yielding sectors, but the combination of growth potential and peer-competitive returns suits patient portfolios focused on total shareholder yield. Balanced against premium valuation, it fits those prioritizing quality financial data providers with progressive payouts rather than short-term income maximization.

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