Morgan Stanley posts record Q1 revenue as markets and wealth surge

Morgan Stanley (NYSE:MS) reported record financial results for the first quarter ended March 31, 2026, characterized by significant growth across its core business segments.

The firm achieved net revenues of $20.6 billion, a substantial increase from the $17.7 billion reported in the same period last year.

Net income applicable to the firm rose to $5.6 billion, or $3.43 per diluted share, up from $4.3 billion, or $2.60 per diluted share, a year ago.

The quarter was defined by record performances in both Institutional Securities and Wealth Management.

Institutional Securities generated $10.7 billion in revenue, fueled by robust client engagement amid heightened market volatility and a resurgence in Investment Banking, particularly in advisory services.

Simultaneously, the Wealth Management division reached record net revenues of $8.5 billion, maintaining a strong pre-tax margin of 30.4%.

The segment demonstrated significant momentum, attracting $118 billion in net new assets and $54 billion in fee-based asset flows during the quarter.

Operational efficiency also remained a highlight of the report, with the firm delivering a return on tangible common equity (ROTCE) of 27.1%.