Morningstar Stock Price, News & Analysis

Morningstar (MORN) has released its Global Thematic Funds Landscape Report, highlighting significant growth in thematic funds. Assets under management in these funds have surged to $806 billion, tripling over three years. The report notes a record 589 new thematic funds launched in 2021, more than twice the previous year's total. Notably, over half of thematic funds outperformed the Morningstar Global Markets Index in three years, although only one in ten succeeded over 15 years. Europe now dominates the market, holding 55% of assets, while the U.S. share decreased to 21%.

Morningstar, Inc. (Nasdaq: MORN) released its annual Target-Date Strategy Landscape Report, revealing that total assets in target-date strategies reached a record $3.27 trillion at the end of 2021, a nearly 20% increase from the prior year. Notably, net contributions surged by $170 billion, with collective investment trusts (CITs) accounting for 86% of inflows. The report highlights the importance of fees in investor decisions, showing that lower-cost funds attracted $59 billion in new contributions, while expensive options experienced outflows exceeding $38 billion.

Morningstar (Nasdaq: MORN) announced the launch of its Due Diligence Module as part of the Advisor Workstation for Canadian wealth management firms. This module helps advisors comply with the 'Know Your Product' (KYP) requirements under Canada's Client Focused Reforms. By providing a streamlined workflow, the module aids in evaluating various investment options, ensuring advisors can make informed recommendations. Already implemented at major institutions like BMO and Manulife, this solution enhances recordkeeping efficiency and client service.

Morningstar has announced its 34th annual Investment Conference, scheduled for May 16-18, 2022 in Chicago. The event will feature notable speakers including former Ambassador Mike McFaul and Franklin Templeton CEO Jenny Johnson. Topics will cover sustainable investing, digital currencies, and geopolitical risks. Registration costs range from $349 for digital access to $899 for all-access attendance. The conference will also include receptions, with a notable performance by Buddy Guy. More information is available on their official website.

On March 1, 2022, the board of directors of Morningstar, Inc. (MORN) declared a quarterly dividend of 36 cents per share. This dividend will be payable on April 29, 2022 to shareholders on record as of April 1, 2022. Morningstar is a prominent independent investment research provider operating in multiple regions worldwide, including North America and Europe, and manages approximately $265 billion in assets under advisement as of December 31, 2021.

Morningstar Investment Management LLC has launched the Morningstar Center for Retirement and Policy Studies to provide unbiased data and insights aimed at improving U.S. retirement plans. The inaugural report, Retirement Plan Landscape Report, highlights alarming outflows of $4.61 trillion from defined-contribution plans from 2011 to 2020, and significant disparities in investment costs affecting retirement savings. The Center aims to address these issues and enhance overall retirement preparedness.

Morningstar reported strong fourth-quarter revenue, achieving 21.5% growth to $462.2 million. Organic revenue increased by 21.4%. Operating income rose 14.9% to $74.8 million. However, diluted net income per share fell 25.3% to $1.30, affected by previous non-operating gains. For 2021, revenue reached $1.7 billion, up 22.3%, with adjusted diluted net income per share growing 17.8% to $6.36. Strong cash flow was noted, with free cash flow increasing 13.2% to $348.1 million.

Morningstar Investment Management and Hueler Income Solutions are collaborating to integrate guaranteed income products into retirement planning via the Morningstar Retirement Manager. This partnership enables personalized investment advice, facilitating the allocation of retirement portfolios toward annuities as needed. The integration allows real-time quotes and guidance on annuity options tailored to individual investor needs. This initiative aims to address concerns about running out of money in retirement, providing a structured means for investors to secure lifetime income.

Morningstar (MORN) announced the launch of a new business unit, the Wealth Management Solutions group, effective January 1, 2022. This unit will integrate various capabilities including managed portfolios, portfolio management software, and investment data aggregation. Led by Daniel Needham, the group aims to enhance wealth management offerings for financial advisors. Plans include the launch of a direct indexing capability later this year. Morningstar's acquisition of Praemium's U.K. and international business, pending regulatory approval, will also be part of this initiative.