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Moelis (MC)
NYSE:MC

Moelis (MC) AI Stock Analysis

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MC

Moelis

(NYSE:MC)

66Neutral
Moelis & Company shows strong financial performance with significant revenue and profitability improvements, supported by effective cash flow management and operational efficiency. However, technical indicators signal bearish momentum, and the high P/E ratio raises valuation concerns. The earnings call and corporate events provide an optimistic outlook, despite challenges in M&A activities due to market volatility. Overall, the stock presents a moderately positive outlook with potential risks.
Positive Factors
Earnings
Moelis closed the year on a great note with fourth-quarter revenues increased approximately 104% over the previous year, materially pulling up full-year revenue growth to 40%.
Market Outlook
The pipeline remains at the 'highest level ever' and the M&A market is 'poised to benefit' from the new 'pro-growth' administration.
Negative Factors
M&A Pipeline
Moelis acknowledged that some deals are being shelved, with backlog down, although the vast majority of deals are just pushed back.

Moelis (MC) vs. S&P 500 (SPY)

Moelis Business Overview & Revenue Model

Company DescriptionMoelis & Company operates as an investment banking advisory firm. It offers advisory services in the areas of mergers and acquisitions, recapitalizations and restructurings, capital markets transactions, and other corporate finance matters. The company offers its services to public multinational corporations, middle market private companies, financial sponsors, entrepreneurs, governments, and sovereign wealth funds. The company serves its clients in North and South America, Europe, the Middle East, Asia, and Australia. It has strategic alliances in Mexico with Alfaro, Dávila y Scherer, S.C.; and in Australia with MA Moelis Australia. The company was founded in 2007 and is headquartered in New York, New York.
How the Company Makes MoneyMoelis & Company generates revenue primarily through advisory fees collected for its financial advisory services. The company's key revenue streams include fees from mergers and acquisitions advisory, where they guide clients through the buying, selling, and merging of businesses; capital markets advisory, assisting clients with raising capital through equity or debt markets; and restructuring advisory, helping clients navigate financial distress situations. Moelis & Company's earnings are significantly influenced by the volume and size of the transactions they advise on, as well as the overall health of the global financial markets. The firm does not engage in proprietary trading or lending, maintaining a focus solely on client advisory, which differentiates it from many traditional investment banks. Strategic partnerships and a strong global network further contribute to the firm's ability to secure high-profile advisory roles, enhancing its revenue potential.

Moelis Financial Statement Overview

Summary
Moelis demonstrates strong financial health with significant revenue and profitability improvements in recent years. The company exhibits robust operational efficiency and effective cash flow management. However, potential volatility in revenue and reduced liquidity in recent periods suggest the need for careful monitoring of financial flexibility.
Income Statement
72
Positive
Moelis has shown a strong revenue growth trajectory, with a notable increase from $854.7 million in 2023 to $1.28 billion in TTM (Trailing-Twelve-Months) 2025, representing a growth rate of approximately 50.2%. The gross profit margin for TTM 2025 is approximately 31.7%, indicating efficient cost management. The net profit margin improved significantly to 13.2% in TTM 2025 from negative in 2023, showcasing a turnaround in profitability. EBIT and EBITDA margins have also improved markedly, reflecting enhanced operational efficiency. However, the company experienced a drop in revenue in 2022, indicating potential volatility.
Balance Sheet
65
Positive
The debt-to-equity ratio is relatively stable at approximately 0.45 in TTM 2025, suggesting moderate leverage. The return on equity (ROE) for TTM 2025 is approximately 35.0%, indicating strong profitability relative to shareholder equity. The equity ratio stands at 40.2%, reflecting a balanced capital structure. While the company has maintained a healthy balance sheet, the reduction in cash and short-term investments in TTM 2025 compared to 2021 could indicate a potential liquidity concern.
Cash Flow
78
Positive
Moelis exhibits robust cash flow management, with a consistent operating cash flow to net income ratio exceeding 2.5 in TTM 2025, signifying strong cash conversion. The free cash flow growth rate from 2024 to TTM 2025 is minimal, indicating stability. The operating cash flow remains strong over the years, supporting ongoing operations and strategic investments. However, the reduction in cash and short-term investments could constrain future liquidity.
Breakdown
Dec 2024Dec 2023Dec 2022Dec 2021Dec 2020
Income StatementTotal Revenue
1.19B854.75M985.30M1.54B943.28M
Gross Profit
334.49M140.00M367.10M626.70M382.47M
EBIT
172.94M-40.35M216.10M495.92M265.71M
EBITDA
183.39M-32.03M224.07M503.16M270.42M
Net Income Common Stockholders
136.02M-24.70M150.34M365.21M178.83M
Balance SheetCash, Cash Equivalents and Short-Term Investments
412.47M186.42M206.79M520.21M202.48M
Total Assets
1.38B1.18B1.22B1.56B1.20B
Total Debt
223.24M215.68M192.76M191.89M196.61M
Net Debt
-189.23M29.27M-14.03M-328.32M-5.86M
Total Liabilities
899.55M817.30M757.93M1.08B751.97M
Stockholders Equity
441.61M352.14M444.50M489.07M479.95M
Cash FlowFree Cash Flow
415.39M141.78M27.04M920.55M388.56M
Operating Cash Flow
427.49M158.47M32.99M936.98M429.21M
Investing Cash Flow
17.11M48.57M-11.18M-17.01M-39.95M
Financing Cash Flow
-215.10M-229.17M-326.90M-602.54M-351.79M

Moelis Technical Analysis

Technical Analysis Sentiment
Neutral
Last Price53.41
Price Trends
50DMA
58.67
Negative
100DMA
66.91
Negative
200DMA
67.07
Negative
Market Momentum
MACD
-1.62
Negative
RSI
45.98
Neutral
STOCH
71.38
Neutral
Evaluating momentum and price trends is crucial in stock analysis to make informed investment decisions. For MC, the sentiment is Neutral. The current price of 53.41 is above the 20-day moving average (MA) of 51.82, below the 50-day MA of 58.67, and below the 200-day MA of 67.07, indicating a neutral trend. The MACD of -1.62 indicates Negative momentum. The RSI at 45.98 is Neutral, neither overbought nor oversold. The STOCH value of 71.38 is Neutral, not indicating any strong overbought or oversold conditions. Overall, these indicators collectively point to a Neutral sentiment for MC.

Moelis Risk Analysis

Moelis disclosed 38 risk factors in its most recent earnings report. Moelis reported the most risks in the “Finance & Corporate” category.
Finance & Corporate - Financial and accounting risks. Risks related to the execution of corporate activity and strategy
Latest Risks Added 0 New Risks

Moelis Peers Comparison

Overall Rating
UnderperformOutperform
Sector (63)
Financial Indicators
Name
Overall Rating
Market Cap
P/E Ratio
ROE
Dividend Yield
Revenue Growth
EPS Growth
EVEVR
78
Outperform
$8.36B20.4523.03%1.55%26.88%68.65%
PJPJT
75
Outperform
$4.73B24.6362.26%0.71%16.04%60.32%
69
Neutral
$4.31B23.7215.66%1.06%12.29%99.57%
LALAZ
67
Neutral
$3.54B13.7459.68%5.14%9.15%
MCMC
66
Neutral
$4.31B24.4639.98%4.57%45.14%
63
Neutral
$12.46B9.568.14%17044.64%12.63%-4.25%
PWPWP
49
Neutral
$1.52B46.63%1.63%35.36%-227.77%
* Financial Sector Average
Performance Comparison
Ticker
Company Name
Price
Change
% Change
MC
Moelis
54.81
4.62
9.21%
EVR
Evercore Partners
213.63
26.29
14.03%
LAZ
Lazard
41.39
3.47
9.15%
PIPR
Piper Sandler
251.87
49.84
24.67%
PJT
PJT Partners
143.51
44.74
45.30%
PWP
Perella Weinberg Partners
17.25
2.74
18.88%

Moelis Earnings Call Summary

Earnings Call Date:Apr 23, 2025
(Q1-2025)
|
% Change Since: 2.42%|
Next Earnings Date:Jul 23, 2025
Earnings Call Sentiment Neutral
Moelis & Company reported strong revenue growth and maintained a solid balance sheet with strategic hiring initiatives. However, the recent market volatility and policy uncertainty have negatively impacted M&A activities and led to a reduced backlog, posing challenges in restructuring and financing. The sentiment reflects a cautious optimism with concerns about market conditions.
Q1-2025 Updates
Positive Updates
Significant Revenue Growth
Moelis & Company achieved revenues of $307 million in the first quarter, representing an increase of 41% over the prior year period, driven by growth in M&A and capital markets.
Record New Business Origination
The company reported record new business origination and a strong pipeline at the end of the first quarter.
Strong Balance Sheet
Moelis & Company maintains a strong balance sheet with no funded debt and a regular quarterly dividend of $0.65 per share.
Successful Recruitment and Strategic Hires
The firm continues to invest in talent, including a technology-focused managing director in Europe and plans for additional senior hires in private capital advisory.
Negative Updates
Volatility Impact on M&A Activity
A new wave of volatility in the capital markets after April 2nd has slowed M&A transaction activity, leading to some transactions being shelved or delayed.
Decreased Backlog
The company's backlog decreased from $331 million due to market volatility and policy uncertainties.
Challenges in Restructuring and Financing
While conversations around restructuring have picked up, there has been no substantial increase in mandates, with more focus on financing options due to market uncertainties.
Company Guidance
During the Moelis & Company Q1 2025 earnings call, management provided guidance on several key financial metrics and strategic initiatives. The company reported revenues of $307 million, a 41% increase year-over-year, driven by growth in M&A and capital markets activities. The compensation expense ratio for the quarter was 69%, with a non-compensation ratio of 19%. The firm anticipates a full-year growth in non-compensation expenses of approximately 15%. The underlying corporate tax rate was 29.5%, with an overall net tax benefit for the quarter due to a discrete tax benefit. The board declared a regular quarterly dividend of $0.65 per share, and the company maintained a strong balance sheet with no funded debt. Despite recent volatility affecting M&A activities, the firm remains focused on strategic growth, particularly in its private funds advisory business, and plans to continue expanding its talent pool to capture future opportunities.

Moelis Corporate Events

DividendsBusiness Operations and StrategyFinancial Disclosures
Moelis Reports Strong Q1 2025 Financial Results
Positive
Apr 23, 2025

On April 23, 2025, Moelis & Company reported its financial results for the first quarter of 2025, showing a significant increase in revenue and net income compared to the previous year. The company’s revenue grew by 41% to $306.6 million, and net income rose to $53.8 million, driven by growth in M&A and capital markets. The firm continues to execute its growth strategy by expanding its team in Europe and maintains a strong balance sheet with no debt. The announcement highlights Moelis’ robust market positioning and its ability to navigate volatile markets, benefiting stakeholders with a declared regular quarterly dividend of $0.65 per share.

Spark’s Take on MC Stock

According to Spark, TipRanks’ AI Analyst, MC is a Outperform.

Moelis & Company exhibits strong financial performance with robust revenue and profit growth, a solid balance sheet, and effective cash flow management. However, technical indicators suggest bearish momentum, and the stock’s high P/E ratio raises valuation concerns. The optimistic outlook from the earnings call and recent corporate events support future growth prospects, resulting in a moderately positive overall stock score.

To see Spark’s full report on MC stock, click here.

Executive/Board ChangesBusiness Operations and Strategy
Moelis Appoints Christopher Callesano as New CFO
Positive
Feb 27, 2025

On February 27, 2025, Moelis & Company announced the appointment of Christopher Callesano as Chief Financial Officer, effective March 31, 2025, succeeding Joseph Simon, who will leave after a 15-year tenure. Callesano, with extensive experience in finance and accounting, has been with Moelis since 2010 and will continue to support the firm’s growth strategy. His appointment reflects Moelis’s commitment to maintaining its robust financial operations and strategic growth, benefiting clients and shareholders.

Executive/Board ChangesBusiness Operations and Strategy
Moelis Grants $25M Retention Award to CEO
Positive
Feb 10, 2025

On February 4, 2025, the Compensation Committee of Moelis & Company approved a retention grant valued at $25,000,000 in profits interest limited partnership units for Ken Moelis, the Chairman and CEO. This decision aims to ensure leadership stability and acknowledges Mr. Moelis’ contributions to the company’s strategy and shareholder value. The award will fully vest by February 13, 2029, contingent on Mr. Moelis’ continued employment with the company, with restrictions on selling the units until one year post-vesting.

Executive/Board ChangesDividendsBusiness Operations and StrategyFinancial Disclosures
Moelis Reports Strong Revenue Growth and Leadership Changes
Positive
Feb 5, 2025

Moelis & Company has reported significant financial growth for the fourth quarter and full year of 2024, with a 104% increase in quarterly revenues to $438.7 million and a 40% rise in full year revenues to $1,201.5 million compared to the previous year. The firm has also increased its quarterly dividend by 8% to $0.65 per share and strengthened its leadership team by promoting and hiring several managing directors, reflecting its strong operational momentum and commitment to growth strategies.

Glossary
OutperformA stock rated as "Outperform" is expected to perform better than the overall market or a specific benchmark over the near-to-medium term. This rating suggests that the stock is likely to deliver higher returns compared to the average returns of other stocks in the same sector or market index. Investors might consider this stock a good buying opportunity.
NeutralA stock rated as "Neutral" is expected to perform in line with the overall market or a specific benchmark. This rating indicates that the stock is neither particularly attractive nor unattractive for investment. Investors may consider holding onto the stock, as it is not expected to either significantly outperform or underperform the market.
UnderperformA stock rated as "Underperform" is expected to perform worse than the overall market or a specific benchmark over the near-to-medium term. This rating suggests that the stock may deliver lower returns compared to the average returns of other stocks in the same sector or market index. Investors might consider selling the stock or avoiding it as an investment.

Disclaimer

This AI Analyst Stock Report is automatically generated by our AI systems using advanced algorithms and publicly available financial, technical, and market data. While the information provided aims to be accurate and insightful, it is intended for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Any content created by an AI (Artificial Intelligence) system may contain inaccuracies and/or contain errors. Investing in stocks carries inherent risks, and past performance is not indicative of future results. This report does not account for your personal financial circumstances, objectives, or risk tolerance. Always conduct your own research or consult with a qualified financial advisor before making investment decisions. The analysis and recommendations provided are based on historical and current data and may not fully reflect future market conditions or unexpected developments. Neither the creators of this report nor its affiliated entities guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of the information presented. Use this report at your own discretion and risk.