Morgan Stanley - MS STOCK NEWS

Morgan Stanley has declared dividends for several preferred stock series, with notable amounts including $255.56 for Series A and $25.00 for Series C. The payments are due on January 15, 2021, to shareholders of record as of December 31, 2020. Other series include fixed-to-floating rates with dividends ranging from $245.77 to $445.31 per share. This announcement underlines the firm's commitment to returning value to shareholders.

Morgan Stanley and Robin Hood have committed to providing financial assistance to 2,000 street vendors in New York City, each receiving upwards of $1,000 to address losses of 70-90% in earnings due to COVID-19. This $2 million initiative, in partnership with The Street Vendor Project, aims to help vendors cover rent, utilities, and food costs amid significant economic hardship. The street vendor community, contributing $293 million to NYC's economy, has been largely excluded from government relief, leading to severe financial challenges.

Morgan Stanley has officially launched the Institute for Inclusion, backed by a $25 million commitment. This initiative aims to enhance diversity, equity, and inclusion both within the firm and in underserved communities. Key focus areas include advancing economic outcomes, philanthropic support for racial equity, and strengthening internal diversity efforts. An advisory board of leaders from various sectors will guide the institute’s mission. The HBCU Scholars Program is the first initiative stemming from this launch.

Morgan Stanley has announced a $1.3 million grant to Columbia University's Department of Psychiatry to enhance children's mental health research. This funding aims to explore the COVID-19 pandemic's impact on vulnerable communities' mental well-being. Key research areas include telehealth treatment and the effects of digital technology on Latinx youth. The collaboration seeks to generate scientific findings that inform effective interventions and improve access to care. This initiative is part of Morgan Stanley's broader commitment to children's mental health through its Alliance for Children’s Mental Health.

The Carlyle Group has acquired a majority stake in Manna Pro Products from Morgan Stanley Capital Partners. Manna Pro, based in St. Louis, specializes in pet care products, including food and wellness items for companion animals. Under Morgan Stanley's ownership, Manna Pro experienced substantial organic growth and strategic acquisitions, enhancing its market presence. Carlyle's investment aligns with its commitment to the Consumer, Media & Retail sector, where it has invested over $21.5 billion. The acquisition aims to leverage Manna Pro's growth momentum and expand its operations both domestically and internationally.

Morgan Stanley Capital Partners has completed an investment in US HealthConnect, partnering with CEO Frank Russomano to drive platform expansion. USHC, founded in 1999, specializes in digital education for healthcare providers, focusing on areas like oncology and women's health. This investment aligns with MSCP's strategy of backing high-growth founder-led companies. With Morgan Stanley's industry knowledge, the partnership aims to enhance USHC's capabilities and reach in delivering personalized educational experiences.

Daniel Simkowitz, Head of Investment Management at Morgan Stanley, will deliver a keynote address at the Bank of America Merrill Lynch Future of Financials Conference on November 9, 2020, at 1:40 p.m. ET. The event will be conducted virtually, allowing participants to join from anywhere. Both live and on-demand webcasts will be accessible via the Morgan Stanley Investor Relations webpage. Morgan Stanley (NYSE: MS) is a prominent global financial services firm, known for its investment banking, wealth management, and investment management services across 41 countries.