Morningstar maintains dividend at 45.5 cents per share

CHICAGO - Morningstar, Inc. (NASDAQ:MORN), recognized for independent investment research, has announced the continuation of its quarterly dividend, maintaining the payout at 45.5 cents per share. This declaration follows the same dividend amount issued in January. The dividend will be available to shareholders of record by April 4, 2025, with the payment date set for April 30, 2025. According to InvestingPro data, Morningstar has maintained dividend payments for 16 consecutive years and has raised its dividend for 4 consecutive years, demonstrating strong commitment to shareholder returns.

The company, which provides a comprehensive suite of services for a diverse clientele including individual investors, financial advisors, and institutional investors, reported assets under management and advisement (AUMA) totaling approximately $338 billion as of December 31, 2024. With a market capitalization of $12.3 billion and revenue growth of 11.6% in the last twelve months, Morningstar operates globally through wholly-owned subsidiaries in 32 countries, offering data and research insights across various investment offerings. InvestingPro analysis indicates the company maintains a Good financial health score, supported by strong profitability metrics.

This press release also contains forward-looking statements regarding Morningstar’s anticipated future financial performance and operational plans. These statements are subject to various risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ from expectations. The company has outlined potential risks that could impact its operations, including cybersecurity threats, regulatory changes, market volatility, and the need to innovate and scale operations effectively.

Investors are reminded that the information in this announcement is based on a press release statement from Morningstar, Inc. It is important to consider that forward-looking statements involve uncertainties, and actual events or results may differ materially.

Morningstar’s consistent dividend reflects its ongoing commitment to returning value to shareholders. The company’s broad international presence and substantial AUMA highlight its significant role in the investment research industry. Currently trading near its 52-week low, InvestingPro analysis suggests the stock is in oversold territory, with 12 additional exclusive insights available to subscribers. As Morningstar navigates the challenges mentioned in its cautionary statements, investors and stakeholders will monitor how these factors influence the company’s performance and strategic direction in the future.

In other recent news, Morningstar, Inc. reported fourth-quarter 2024 earnings that exceeded consensus expectations, driven by strong performance in its Credit segment. Despite this, the Data & Analytics division saw slower growth and margin contraction due to a recent divestiture. BMO Capital Markets responded to these results by lowering Morningstar’s price target from $387 to $370 while maintaining an Outperform rating. Additionally, Morningstar has entered a strategic partnership with SS&C Technologies, integrating its Direct Advisory Suite with the Black Diamond Wealth Platform to enhance investment planning and reporting capabilities.

In a move to streamline operations, Morningstar announced the retirement of its Morningstar Office product, facilitating a transition to the Black Diamond platform for advisors. Furthermore, Morningstar disclosed responses to investor questions in a recent SEC filing, highlighting its commitment to transparent communication. This filing also included cautionary language regarding forward-looking statements, addressing risks such as cybersecurity threats, regulatory changes, and the impact of artificial intelligence. The company emphasized that these statements are based on current expectations and may change with new information or future events.

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