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Morningstar Direct from Morningstar, Inc.
Investment analytics platform with global database of managed investments, securities, indexes, and market data. Includes portfolio analysis tools, ESG data, risk metrics, and performance attribution.
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Data Coverage
(8 Yes /9 Known /12 Possible features)
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Global Market Data Access to data from international equity, fixed income, commodities, FX, and derivatives markets. |
Morningstar Direct provides international equity, fixed income, and multi-asset data, plus some coverage for commodities, FX, and derivatives via market data modules. | |
|
Historical Data Depth Range of years of historical data available. |
No information available | |
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Alternative Data Integration Ability to ingest alternative data sources such as social sentiment, satellite imagery, credit card spend data, etc. |
Morningstar Direct has alternative data integrations, including ESG data and select external datasets. | |
|
Corporate Financials Coverage of detailed company financial statements, filings, and relevant financial metrics. |
Morningstar Direct provides access to detailed company financials, statements, and analytics. | |
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Macroeconomic Data Availability of global and regional macroeconomic indicators. |
Platform includes macroeconomic indicators from major economies. | |
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Earnings Estimates Provision of consensus and snapshot earnings estimates for public companies. |
Morningstar Direct provides earnings estimates through its equity data modules. | |
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Real-Time Data Feeds Support for real-time streaming data for pricing and news. |
Offers real-time streaming for select pricing and news feeds (dependent on entitlements). | |
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Tick Data Granularity Level of detail for tick/transaction-level data. |
No information available | |
|
Coverage Universe Size Number of companies, securities, or instruments covered. |
No information available | |
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Event Calendars Availability of forward-looking event calendars (earnings, dividends, macroeconomic releases). |
Provides financial event calendars, including earnings, dividends, IPOs, and more. | |
|
News Aggregation Integration of multiple global news sources and filtering capabilities. |
News and research aggregation from multiple global sources. | |
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Credit Ratings Data Access to credit ratings and related information from leading agencies. |
Not as far as we are aware.* Credit ratings are referenced via issuer-level risk analytics but not directly from official external agencies. |
Analytical Tools
(10 Yes /11 Known /11 Possible features)
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Financial Modeling Toolkit Pre-built and customizable templates for DCF, comparables, LBO, merger models, etc. |
Provides modeling toolkits for portfolio analysis, performance attribution, and some DCF-type analyses. | |
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Risk Analysis Modules Tools for calculating VaR, stress testing, scenario analysis, and sensitivity testing. |
Contains multi-factor risk models and stress testing/analysis modules. | |
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Screening and Filtering Deep filtering of securities by multiple metrics and criteria. |
Deep security and fund screening functionality across thousands of metrics. | |
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Backtesting Engine Ability to backtest investment strategies using historical data. |
Has backtesting features for portfolios and investment strategies. | |
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Portfolio Analytics Comprehensive tools for portfolio construction, risk attribution, and performance attribution. |
Advanced portfolio analytics and attribution provided in the platform. | |
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Charting Functionality Advanced, customizable charting and visualization tools. |
Advanced charting and custom visualization tools are standard. | |
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Peer Comparison Side-by-side analysis of companies, industries, and sectors. |
Peer group analysis and benchmarking supported for funds, stocks, and portfolios. | |
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Custom Formula Builder Support for building custom metrics and formulas. |
Allows custom formulas and metrics in analytics modules. | |
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API Access for Analytics Exposing platform analytics via API for integration with other tools. |
Morningstar Direct API supports analytics programmatic access. | |
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Forecasting Models In-built forecasting functions for time series and regression-based predictions. |
Forecasting tools available for time series and risk/return projections. | |
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Deal Analytics Suite Capability to analyze and benchmark M&A, ECM, and DCM transactions. |
Not as far as we are aware.* Platform is focused on asset management; M&A and capital market deal analytics not core offering. |
Collaboration & Workflow
(7 Yes /7 Known /10 Possible features)
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Shared Workspaces Ability to create and manage shared research spaces for teams/projects. |
Direct offers shared projects, dashboards, and workflow for teams. | |
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Document Management Version-controlled storage, retrieval, and tagging of research documents. |
Includes versioned document storage/retrieval for reports and models. | |
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Task Assignment and Tracking Workflow tools for assigning and tracking analysis or research tasks. |
Task assignment, notes, and tracking are part of the workflow section. | |
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Integrated Chat/Commenting In-platform messaging and discussion around research artifacts. |
No information available | |
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Approval Workflows Formal review and approval processes for research notes and publications. |
No information available | |
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Research Publication Tools Generation and distribution of research reports, including formatting, branding, and controlled dissemination. |
Research report publication, formatting, and workflow are included in the suite. | |
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Calendar Integration Syncing of research meetings, deadlines, and events with personal or team calendars. |
No information available | |
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Version Control Tracking and management of updates/edits to research documents and models. |
Versioning and audit trails for research documents and models included. | |
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Content Searchability Advanced search and retrieval of research notes, documents, and data. |
Robust content search across all investment, research, and analytic data. | |
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Automated Reminders Automated notifications for important research deadlines or market events. |
Automated reminders for portfolio updates, deadlines, and research events. |
Integration Capabilities
(8 Yes /8 Known /8 Possible features)
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API Connectivity Well-documented REST or SOAP API for accessing platform data and services. |
REST APIs (Morningstar Direct Web Services) and programmatic access options. | |
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Third-Party Data Feeds Ability to integrate with external data providers (Bloomberg, Reuters, FactSet, etc). |
Third-party data feed integration options (e.g., Bloomberg, FactSet, Lipper) are available. | |
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Single Sign-On (SSO) Support for SSO for seamless authentication using corporate credentials. |
Supports corporate SSO integration. | |
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Data Export Options Export data to CSV, Excel, PDF, and other popular formats. |
Export to Excel, CSV, PDF, and other data formats supported across modules. | |
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CRM Integration Ability to link with CRM tools like Salesforce, Dynamics, etc. |
Integrations possible for Salesforce and other CRM tools via workflow modules. | |
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Custom Integrations Support for custom integration use cases through SDKs, webhooks, etc. |
SDKs, webhooks, and custom integration workflows are available for enterprise clients. | |
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ETL Support Ability to ingest and transform data for firm-wide data pipelines. |
Supports data transformation and ingest as part of enterprise implementation. | |
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BI/Visualization Tool Connectors Native connectors for PowerBI, Tableau, Qlik, etc. |
Integration with PowerBI, Tableau, and other visualization tools documented in user guides. |
User Experience & Customization
(6 Yes /6 Known /8 Possible features)
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Intuitive Navigation Clean user interface with logical navigation structure. |
UI praised for navigation, with custom layouts for dashboards and analytics. | |
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Custom Dashboards Ability to create personalized dashboards with preferred modules and widgets. |
Users can create and save custom dashboards. | |
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Theme and Branding Options Support for custom firm branding and color schemes. |
White-labeling and branding options available for firm clients. | |
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Accessibility Compliance Compliant with WCAG or local accessibility standards. |
No information available | |
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Mobile Device Support Optimized experiences across mobile, tablet, and desktop devices. |
Web-based platform is fully responsive for mobile/tablet/desktop. | |
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User Preferences Granular customization of alerts, reports, and notifications. |
Alert, report, and notification preferences are customizable per user profile. | |
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Multi-Language Support Availability of platform in multiple languages. |
Multi-language support available for major regions (English, Japanese, Chinese, etc). | |
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Keyboard Shortcuts Productivity shortcuts for quick navigation and action. |
No information available |
Performance & Scalability
(2 Yes /2 Known /6 Possible features)
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System Uptime Guaranteed platform uptime (SLA). |
No information available | |
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Response Time Average latency for user interactions and analytics queries. |
No information available | |
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Concurrent User Support Maximum number of users supported simultaneously. |
No information available | |
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Data Throughput Rate at which data can be processed or retrieved. |
No information available | |
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Load Balancing Automated distribution of workloads across system resources. |
Cloud-based platform uses automated load balancing for scaling. | |
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Horizontal Scalability Ability to add capacity by connecting multiple systems or servers. |
SaaS platform supports horizontal scaling via cloud infrastructure. |
Security & Compliance
(8 Yes /8 Known /8 Possible features)
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Data Encryption In-Transit All communications are protected by TLS/SSL or equivalent encryption. |
All communications encrypted in transit with TLS. | |
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Data Encryption At-Rest Stored data is encrypted using industry standard protocols. |
Data stored using at-rest encryption as per security documentation. | |
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Role-Based Access Control Granular user and permission management. |
Role-based access control for user management is available. | |
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Audit Logging Comprehensive logs for tracking all user and system activities. |
Audit logging for all platform activities is available. | |
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Regulatory Compliance Certifications Compliance with standards like GDPR, SOC2, ISO 27001, FINRA, etc. |
Compliance certifications include SOC2, GDPR, and others per vendor documentation. | |
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Multi-Factor Authentication Support for MFA in user logins. |
Multi-factor authentication is available for customer logins. | |
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Privacy Controls Ability to configure and enforce data privacy rules and data retention policies. |
Customer data privacy controls and retention policies configurable in user settings. | |
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Secure Data Deletion Support for secure and auditable deletion of sensitive data. |
Supports auditable secure deletion on customer request. |
Customer Support & Training
(4 Yes /5 Known /6 Possible features)
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24/7 Support Access to live support around the clock. |
24/7 live support for enterprise clients (phone, email, chat). | |
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Dedicated Account Manager Personal point of contact for enterprise clients. |
Not as far as we are aware.* Account managers typically only for large institutional clients. | |
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In-Platform Tutorials Interactive guides for onboarding and user education. |
Has integrated tutorials and help overlays. | |
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Knowledge Base Comprehensive library of documentation, FAQs, and best practices. |
Comprehensive help resources and searchable documentation. | |
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Custom Training Sessions Provision for onsite or remote training tailored to client needs. |
Bespoke and remote training sessions available for clients. | |
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Response Time SLA Guaranteed support response time as per client tier. |
No information available |
Cost & Licensing
(5 Yes /5 Known /5 Possible features)
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Transparent Pricing Clear and upfront disclosure of all costs, including data fees. |
Transparent and published pricing tiers visible on site. | |
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Modular Licensing Ability to purchase only specific modules or functionalities. |
Pricing and feature licensing are modular by market, data, and analytics modules. | |
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Usage-Based Pricing Option for per-user or per-usage pricing models. |
Usage-based and seat-based pricing models available. | |
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Volume Discounts Discounts for larger user numbers or extended contracts. |
Volume discounts available for large accounts or enterprise licenses. | |
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Trial or Demo Availability Possibility to try before purchase via free trial/demo. |
Proof-of-concept, demo, and trial programs offered to prospective clients. |
Innovation & AI
(6 Yes /6 Known /6 Possible features)
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Natural Language Processing Extraction and analysis of insights from unstructured data, such as news or filings. |
NLP modules power data extraction from filings, reports, and news. | |
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Smart Alerts AI-driven, context-aware alerts and recommendations. |
Smart, context-aware portfolio and market alerts available. | |
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Automated Data Tagging Machine-driven identification and tagging of important events or entities. |
System tags and classifies documents, events, and companies automatically. | |
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Sentiment Analysis Detection of sentiment in news, reports, and social media. |
Sentiment analytics in ESG, news, and social data modules. | |
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Predictive Analytics AI/ML-enabled forecasting and scenario analysis tools. |
Predictive analytics modules for markets and portfolios included. | |
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Personalized Recommendations AI-powered suggestions for research, analytics, or content tailored to each user. |
Personalized recommendations driven by user analytic patterns. |
Audit & Reporting
(5 Yes /5 Known /5 Possible features)
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Customizable Reports Ability to create custom report templates and scheduled reports. |
Custom, scheduled, and white-labeled reporting are supported. | |
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Regulatory Reporting Out-of-the-box templates for regulatory and supervisory reporting. |
Regulatory reporting templates and filing assistance available. | |
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Usage Analytics Detailed tracking and reporting of platform usage. |
Admins can view usage analytics by user and department. | |
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Comprehensive Audit Trail Immutable logs showing every action taken within the platform. |
Every action in the platform tracked in an immutable audit trail. | |
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Integration with BI Tools Data export and direct feeds to external business intelligence platforms. |
Integration for analytics output and reporting to PowerBI/Tableau available. |
Portfolio Management Systems for Portfolio Management
Comprehensive platforms that enable portfolio construction, optimization, rebalancing, and monitoring of investment portfolios across various asset classes. These systems typically include tools for asset allocation, performance attribution, risk analytics, and trade order generation.
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Core Portfolio Management
(9 Yes /9 Known /10 Possible features)
|
Multi-Asset Class Support Supports a wide variety of asset classes including equities, fixed income, derivatives, alternatives, and cash. |
Morningstar Direct supports multiple asset classes as it covers managed investments, securities, indexes, and market data. | |
|
Model Portfolio Management Ability to create and manage model portfolios for replication and benchmarking. |
Model portfolio management and benchmarking are core functions according to product descriptions and use-case documentation. | |
|
Rebalancing Tools Tools for automated and manual portfolio rebalancing based on rules or drift thresholds. |
Automated and manual rebalancing is offered as part of the portfolio management suite. | |
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Tax Lot Tracking Tracks individual tax lots for accurate tax management and reporting. |
Tax lot tracking capability is commonly referenced within the portfolio-level reporting features. | |
|
Multi-Currency Support Manages and values portfolios in multiple base and reporting currencies. |
Multi-currency portfolio management and performance reporting are key elements of Morningstar Direct. | |
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Historical Position Reconstruction Ability to reconstruct historical portfolio positions for reporting or auditing. |
Historical reconstruction of positions and performance is available via transaction and holding-level data exports. | |
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Scenario Analysis Enables scenario modeling to assess portfolio impacts under various assumptions. |
Scenario analysis and risk modeling are highlighted in analytics and risk modules. | |
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Portfolio Hierarchies Supports complex hierarchical structures (accounts, sub-portfolios, composites). |
Product supports multiple levels of aggregation and subaccount structures. | |
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What-If Analysis Provides tools to simulate hypothetical trades and assess impacts. |
What-if and hypothetical trade simulations are incorporated in the analytics toolset. | |
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Speed of Portfolio Valuation Time taken to compute full valuation of a portfolio. |
No information available |
Order Management & Trading
(3 Yes /3 Known /10 Possible features)
|
Order Generation Create and submit orders directly from portfolio or model changes. |
No information available | |
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Pre-Trade Compliance Checks Checks trade orders against investment restrictions prior to execution. |
Pre-trade compliance and restriction checking is supported through integrated rule validation. | |
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Order Routing Supports automated routing of trades to counterparties or execution platforms. |
No information available | |
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FIX Protocol Integration Native support for FIX protocol for seamless connectivity with brokers. |
No information available | |
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Trade Allocation Flexible rules for post-trade allocation to accounts or sleeves. |
No information available | |
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Market Data Integration Real-time or delayed access to market prices for pre-trade decisions. |
Direct market data integration is a product hallmark; offers real-time and end-of-day data. | |
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Execution Cost Analysis Tracks and reports on transaction costs and slippage. |
Transaction cost analysis and slippage analytics are available for advanced users. | |
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Straight-Through Processing (STP) Rate Percentage of trades processed from order to settlement without manual intervention. |
No information available | |
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Time to Execute Trade Average time from order entry to execution fill. |
No information available | |
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Block Trading Support Ability to manage and execute block trades efficiently. |
No information available |
Performance Measurement & Attribution
(7 Yes /7 Known /10 Possible features)
|
Time-Weighted Return Calculation Accurate calculation of time-weighted returns for investment performance analysis. |
Time-weighted returns/calculations are standard and explicitly described in Morningstar’s performance analytics. | |
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Money-Weighted Return Calculation Calculation of money-weighted (IRR) returns for cashflow-sensitive portfolios. |
Money-weighted (IRR) performance metrics are a documented part of reporting. | |
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Multi-Level Attribution Supports multi-level (sector, security, currency) performance attribution. |
Supports multi-level (sector, region, security, style) performance attribution. | |
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Custom Benchmark Support Ability to set and compare portfolios against custom benchmark indices. |
Custom benchmarks and blended indexes can be uploaded or constructed. | |
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Risk-Adjusted Return Metrics Includes Sharpe, Sortino, and other ratios for performance analysis. |
Risk/return metrics such as Sharpe, Sortino, and others are highly visible in reporting modules. | |
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Performance Contribution Analysis Analyzes contribution to performance by asset, sector, or manager. |
Performance contribution by asset, manager, or security is a built-in report type. | |
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Automatic GIPS Composite Management Support for Global Investment Performance Standards composite setup and reporting. |
Morningstar enables GIPS composite calculations and reporting, a requirement for institutional users. | |
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Frequency of Return Calculations How often return calculations can be performed. |
No information available | |
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Granularity of Holdings Analysis Level at which performance can be broken down (e.g., lot, security, sector). |
No information available | |
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Speed of Performance Report Generation Time required to generate detailed performance reports. |
No information available |
Risk Management & Analytics
(8 Yes /8 Known /10 Possible features)
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VaR (Value at Risk) Calculation Calculates Value at Risk using multiple methodologies (parametric, historical, Monte Carlo). |
VaR calculations and multiple methodologies are available within the risk module. | |
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Stress Testing Ability to run stress and shock scenarios on portfolios. |
Stress testing and extreme scenario modeling available in portfolio analytics/risk. | |
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Risk Exposure Breakdown Detailed analysis and visualization of exposures (sector, country, factor, etc). |
Risk exposure breakdowns by sector, country, factor, etc. are pictured in feature tours. | |
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Factor Analysis Decomposition of portfolio returns/risk into underlying risk factors. |
Factor analysis is available, with loadings and contributions reported. | |
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Liquidity Risk Assessment Measures and reports on the liquidity profile of portfolios. |
Liquidity risk profile and reports are shown in risk analytics screenshots and help docs. | |
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Counterparty Risk Assessment Quantifies exposures to issuers, custodians, and brokers. |
Counterparty risk and exposures to issuers/custodians is provided for credit risk uses. | |
|
Real-Time Risk Monitoring Provides real-time or near-time updates to risk metrics. |
Product advertises real-time and near-real-time risk metrics. | |
|
Limit Monitoring and Alerts Automated monitoring of risk and exposure limits with alerting. |
Automated limit monitoring and alerts are included (can set risk/exposure limits with notifications). | |
|
Number of Custom Risk Metrics Supported Custom risk models or metrics the platform can support at once. |
No information available | |
|
Speed of Risk Report Generation Time required to generate and distribute risk reports. |
No information available |
Compliance & Regulatory Reporting
(7 Yes /7 Known /10 Possible features)
|
Pre-Trade Compliance Checks compliance with regulatory and client-specific rules prior to order execution. |
Pre-trade compliance features are detailed for institutional users and asset managers. | |
|
Post-Trade Compliance Monitors post-trade activity for adherence to investment guidelines. |
Post-trade compliance monitoring for guidelines and restrictions available in rule-based modules. | |
|
Regulatory Report Generation Produces reports required for regulatory filings (e.g., Form PF, AIFMD, MiFID II). |
Regulatory report generation, including Form PF, AIFMD, MiFID II and others are available as built-in templates. | |
|
Custom Rule Builder GUI or scripting language for creating custom compliance rules. |
Custom rule builder (GUI and scripting) offered for compliance configuration. | |
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Audit Trail Tracks and logs all activity and changes for audit purposes. |
Full audit trail/logging present and referenced in documentation and marketing materials. | |
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Exception Management Workflows for handling and resolving compliance breaches and exceptions. |
Exception management workflows for compliance breaches and remediation are referenced in compliance section. | |
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Automated Document Generation Automatically generates legal and compliance documents for clients or regulators. |
Automated document generation for regulatory/compliance reports (statements, filings, etc.). | |
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Number of Built-In Compliance Rules Out-of-the-box compliance rules or templates available. |
No information available | |
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Compliance Check Frequency How frequently compliance checks are run on portfolios. |
No information available | |
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Alert Notification Time Delay between identifying a compliance breach and notifying the user. |
No information available |
Data Integration & Management
(7 Yes /7 Known /10 Possible features)
|
Open API Access Well-documented APIs for integration with third-party systems or internal applications. |
Open API and data integrations are frequently cited, supporting custom and third-party links. | |
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Market Data Connectivity Connectivity to market data providers for real-time and historical data. |
Live connections to Bloomberg, Reuters, and other market data sources described as features. | |
|
Pricing Source Flexibility Able to source pricing from multiple external or internal sources. |
Pricing can be sourced flexibly from multiple providers, clearly mentioned in system overviews. | |
|
ETL (Extract, Transform, Load) Tools In-built data transformation and loading utilities. |
ETL utilities, data ingestion, and transformation tools available. | |
|
Data Quality Control Validation, deduplication, and error correction processes for incoming data. |
Integrated data quality control including validation, deduplication, and correction. | |
|
Reference Data Management Centralized management for instrument, client, and counterparty reference data. |
Reference data management (instruments, clients, counterparties) available and promoted for enterprise users. | |
|
Data Retention Policy Support Configure how long data is retained for compliance and reporting. |
Data retention policies are configurable according to compliance and business needs. | |
|
Number of Data Sources Supported Distinct external or internal data sources that can be integrated at once. |
No information available | |
|
Data Load Frequency Maximum frequency at which data loads are supported. |
No information available | |
|
Data Reconciliation Speed Time required to reconcile positions or transactions with external records. |
No information available |
Client & Investor Communications
(7 Yes /7 Known /10 Possible features)
|
Client Portal Branded, online access point for clients to view portfolio, performance, and documents. |
A client portal is part of the offering for client/investor reporting and document access. | |
|
Customizable Reporting Flexible options for tailoring reports to specific client needs. |
Reporting can be extensively customized per client and use-case. | |
|
Automated Statement Generation Generation and distribution of periodic account statements and tax documents. |
Automated statement and document generation are standard. | |
|
Document Vault Secure repository for storing and sharing investment reports and documents. |
Includes secure document vault/repository for reports and statements. | |
|
Multi-Language Support Support for producing reports and communications in multiple languages. |
Multi-language support available for reporting and portal communications. | |
|
Data Visualization Tools Advanced charting and data visualization in reporting and portals. |
Advanced charting and visual analytics are emphasized in marketing collateral. | |
|
Custom Branding Options Allows for client-specific branding of communication materials. |
Product allows branded reports and portals for clients. | |
|
Bulk Reporting Speed Time required to generate and deliver bulk reports to all clients. |
No information available | |
|
Number of Concurrent Users Supported Clients or investors that can simultaneously access the system. |
No information available | |
|
Frequency of Automatic Updates How often clients receive automatic updates (email, portal notifications). |
No information available |
Workflow & Task Automation
(5 Yes /5 Known /10 Possible features)
|
Workflow Designer Tool for configuring custom workflows and approval chains. |
No information available | |
|
Task Assignment & Escalation Automatic assignment and escalation of tasks based on rules or deadlines. |
Task assignment, reminders, and escalation tools are noted in documentation for workflow automation. | |
|
Alerts & Notifications Email, SMS, or in-app notifications for important tasks or exceptions. |
Alarms, notifications, and exception alerts via email/app. | |
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Automated Data Imports Scheduling and running data imports without manual intervention. |
Automated data imports from custodians, managers, and market sources are supported. | |
|
Exception Handling Automation Automated handling of workflow errors or breaks. |
Automation of exception and error handling available through workflow features. | |
|
User Access Controls Assign roles, permissions, and workflows to users and groups. |
Role-based permissions, group management, and workflow assignment are provided. | |
|
Workflow Execution Time Average time to complete an automated workflow from initiation to completion. |
. | No information available |
|
Number of Workflow Types Different workflow templates or types available out-of-the-box. |
. | No information available |
|
Concurrent Workflow Support Maximum number of workflows that can run simultaneously. |
. | No information available |
|
Audit Logging of Workflows Automatically records all workflow steps and user actions for compliance. |
. | No information available |
Security & Access Control
(8 Yes /8 Known /10 Possible features)
|
Single Sign-On (SSO) Support for SSO integration with enterprise identity providers. |
Single sign-on via SAML/enterprise integration is available. | |
|
Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) Enforce MFA for added user login security. |
Multi-factor authentication is supported for system security. | |
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Role-Based Permissions Granular controls over user access to different system modules and data. |
Role-based and permission management is described in help center and admin guides. | |
|
Encryption (At-Rest & In-Transit) Encrypts data when stored or sent across networks. |
Data is encrypted in transit and at rest per vendor's security documentation. | |
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Regular Penetration Testing Conducts periodic security testing of the platform. |
Vendor states regular security audits and penetration testing as part of managed platform. | |
|
User Activity Logging Logs user activity for security and audit compliance. |
User activity logs and audit trails are available for accountability. | |
|
Custom Password Policies Set and enforce custom password complexity and expiry rules. |
Administrators can configure password policy. See admin/security settings. | |
|
Data Masking Ability to mask sensitive data fields for specific users. |
Sensitive field masking in reports and exports is available for compliance. | |
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Number of Access Roles Supported Distinct levels or roles that can be set for system users. |
. | No information available |
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User Session Timeout Default time a session remains active without user interaction. |
. | No information available |
Integration & Extensibility
(2 Yes /2 Known /10 Possible features)
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Third-Party Application Integrations Pre-built connectors for leading risk, CRM, or execution systems. |
Connectors/API options to integrate with CRM, risk analytics, and trade execution providers. | |
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Custom Script/SDK Support Allows developers to build custom extensions or automation using an SDK or scripting. |
SDK documented for analytics/reporting customization. | |
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Event-Based API Triggers APIs that trigger actions in response to portfolio events or data changes. |
. | No information available |
|
Outbound Data Feeds Flexible configuration for pushing data to downstream systems. |
. | No information available |
|
Batch & Real-Time Processing Supports both scheduled (batch) and real-time integrations. |
. | No information available |
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Integration Partner Ecosystem Network of supported third-party vendors with certified integrations. |
. | No information available |
|
Number of Pre-Built Connectors Connectors available for plug-and-play integration. |
. | No information available |
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API Call Latency Time for average API request-response cycle. |
. | No information available |
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Concurrent API Connections Supported Maximum number of simultaneous API connections. |
. | No information available |
|
User Extensibility Options Availability of open frameworks or plugin architectures. |
. | No information available |
Usability & User Interface
(4 Yes /4 Known /10 Possible features)
|
Customizable Dashboards Users can personalize dashboard layouts with preferred widgets or views. |
Users can personalize dashboard layouts and widgets. | |
|
Mobile Access Optimized access from mobile and tablet devices. |
Morningstar Direct is accessible via mobile browsers and has solutions for mobile reporting access. | |
|
Accessibility (WCAG Compliance) Meets accessibility guidelines for users with disabilities. |
No information available | |
|
Multi-Language Interface User interface supports multiple languages. |
. | No information available |
|
Help & Support Tools Embedded help, documentation, and user support resources. |
Product provides embedded help and support tools. | |
|
User Onboarding Workflows Guided onboarding and training for new users. |
. | No information available |
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Custom View Settings Users can define saved and shared custom views or filters. |
Custom view and filter settings can be defined, saved, and shared. | |
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Concurrent User Responsiveness System performance with large numbers of simultaneous users. |
. | No information available |
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Average Page Load Time The average time to load application screens. |
. | No information available |
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Hotkey/Shortcuts Support Support for keyboard shortcuts to enhance productivity. |
. | No information available |
Core Portfolio Management
(3 Yes /3 Known /10 Possible features)
|
Multi-Asset Support Support for various asset classes such as equities, bonds, derivatives, ETFs, and private equity. |
Widespread multi-asset support is a core element of product design. | |
|
Real-Time Position Management Ability to track positions in real-time as trades are executed and settled. |
. | No information available |
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Transaction Management Capability to ingest, validate, and record all buy/sell, transfer, and adjustment transactions. |
. | No information available |
|
Portfolio Aggregation Aggregating multiple accounts, funds, and entities for a consolidated portfolio view. |
Ability to aggregate multiple accounts/funds into consolidated views is well-documented. | |
|
Custom Portfolio Structuring Configurable portfolio hierarchies such as sleeve accounts, sub-portfolios, and strategies. |
. | No information available |
|
Corporate Actions Processing Automated handling and processing of dividends, splits, mergers, and other events. |
. | No information available |
|
Cash Management Real-time tracking of cash balances and flows across custodians and accounts. |
. | No information available |
|
Instrument Master Integration Seamless integration with security and instrument master data. |
. | No information available |
|
Audit Trail Historical tracking and logging of all portfolio amendments and user actions. |
Audit trails are present, tracking amendments and user actions as part of compliance and portfolio management. | |
|
Scalability Maximum number of portfolios/accounts that can be managed concurrently. |
No information available |
Performance Measurement & Attribution
(7 Yes /7 Known /9 Possible features)
|
Time-Weighted Return Calculation Determines portfolio returns that neutralize impact of cash flows. |
Time-weighted return calculation is a core portfolio performance metric. | |
|
Money-Weighted Return Calculation (IRR) Calculates internal rate of return for capital-based performance. |
Internal rate of return (money-weighted) is supported. | |
|
Risk-Adjusted Performance Metrics Calculation of Sharpe, Sortino, and other ratios. |
Risk-adjusted performance metrics (e.g., Sharpe, Sortino) are calculated and shown in reports. | |
|
Performance Attribution Analysis Decomposition by security selection, allocation, currency, etc. |
Performance attribution analysis provided, including allocation, selection, and currency attribution. | |
|
Benchmark Comparison Track and compare portfolio performance to chosen benchmarks. |
All portfolio and fund analytics can be benchmarked against standard and custom indices. | |
|
Multi-Currency Performance Reporting Support for calculating and presenting results in multiple currencies. |
Multi-currency reporting supports valuation and performance reports in several base and presentation currencies. | |
|
Historical Performance Archiving Storing and accessing long-term historical performance data. |
Long-term historical performance storage and access is a key feature. | |
|
Granularity of Reporting The finest level (e.g. security, sector, account) at which performance is reported. |
. | No information available |
|
Attribution Frequency How often performance and attribution calculations are updated. |
. | No information available |
Risk Management
(6 Yes /6 Known /9 Possible features)
|
Value at Risk (VaR) Calculation Automated computation of VaR and related risk metrics for portfolios. |
VaR calculation and summary risk metrics are part of the standard offering. | |
|
Scenario Analysis & Stress Testing Ability to model portfolio impact under various hypothetical adverse market scenarios. |
Scenario analysis and stress testing are accessible through dedicated risk and scenario analysis modules. | |
|
Exposure Analysis Breakdown and monitoring of exposures (e.g. sector, region, currency). |
Exposure analytics breakdown is a core reporting feature. | |
|
Limit Monitoring & Alerts Automated monitoring and alerting for breaches of portfolio risk or concentration limits. |
Risk rules and exposure/concentration limits can be set system-wide, with alerts. | |
|
Custom Risk Models Support Ability to import or define custom risk and factor models. |
Morningstar offers support for custom risk models via user-defined risk factors and uploads. | |
|
Risk Reporting Flexibility Configurability in how risk reports are presented and delivered. |
. | No information available |
|
Factor Analysis Decompose portfolio returns and risks by systematic factors (e.g. size, value, momentum). |
Factor breakdown for performance and risk is prominently featured in analytics modules. | |
|
Look-through Capability Analyze risks inside multi-layered investment vehicles (e.g., funds of funds, ETFs). |
. | No information available |
|
Monte Carlo Simulations Number of Monte Carlo scenarios that can be run per analysis. |
. | No information available |
Order Management & Trade Execution Workflow
(0 Yes /0 Known /8 Possible features)
|
Trade Order Entry & Routing Ability to construct, edit, and route orders to brokers or venues. |
. | No information available |
|
Pre-Trade Compliance Checks Automated checking of portfolio and regulatory limits prior to order release. |
. | No information available |
|
Block and Allocation Management Support for block trading and post-trade allocation to multiple accounts. |
. | No information available |
|
Electronic Trading Integration (FIX) Connectivity to brokers or ECNs via FIX protocol or APIs. |
. | No information available |
|
Order Audit Logging Historical recording of all order and trade actions for compliance. |
. | No information available |
|
Trade Approval Workflow Configurable, multi-step approval processes for trade execution. |
. | No information available |
|
Error Handling & Reconciliation Automated handling and correction of trade errors and mismatches. |
. | No information available |
|
Order Throughput Maximum number of orders that can be handled per minute. |
. | No information available |
Compliance Management
(0 Yes /0 Known /8 Possible features)
|
Pre-Trade Compliance Engine Real-time scanning of trades against compliance rules before execution. |
. | No information available |
|
Post-Trade Compliance Monitoring Ongoing assessment and detection of rule breaches after trading. |
. | No information available |
|
Rule Customization Ability to author and manage custom compliance rules by user. |
. | No information available |
|
Rule Library Library of pre-built regulatory and standard investment policies. |
. | No information available |
|
Automated Breach Alerts Automatic electronic alerts for any compliance violations. |
. | No information available |
|
Case Management Support workflow for documenting, tracking and resolving compliance breaches. |
. | No information available |
|
Compliance Reporting Flexibility Configurability in output and delivery of compliance reports. |
. | No information available |
|
Audit Trail for Rules Historical log of rule activations, changes, and breach remediation. |
. | No information available |
Data Management & Integration
(4 Yes /4 Known /7 Possible features)
|
Open API for Data Access RESTful, SOAP or proprietary APIs for inbound/outbound data flows. |
. | No information available |
|
Market Data Integration Plug-in support for multiple market data vendors (Bloomberg, Reuters, etc.). |
. | No information available |
|
Reference Data Management Handling and ingestion of security master, issuer, and counterparty data. |
Handles security master and related reference data. | |
|
Third-Party System Integration Interfacing with custodians, fund accountants, and pricing engines. |
Integrates with custodians, pricing engines, and other third-party systems. | |
|
Data Validation & Cleansing Automated checking, cleaning, and reconciliation of incoming data. |
Automated data validation/cleansing in data onboarding workflows. | |
|
Data Latency Time between data arrival and system update. |
. | No information available |
|
Bulk Data Import/Export Ability to handle batch data transfer (historical data loading, bulk reports). |
Supports batch/bulk data imports and exports for historical and operational data. |
Reporting & Analytics
(6 Yes /6 Known /7 Possible features)
|
Custom Report Builder Drag-and-drop or template-based tools for report creation. |
Custom report builder with a drag-and-drop interface is promoted on product pages and documentation. | |
|
Scheduled & On-Demand Reporting Automated and ad-hoc report generation and distribution. |
Scheduled and on-demand (ad hoc) report generation is a standard feature. | |
|
Regulatory Reporting Support for end-to-end reporting for regulatory requirements (e.g. MiFID, Form PF). |
Regulatory reporting is supported for various jurisdictions, as detailed in product datasheets. | |
|
Client Reporting Customizable client statement generation and delivery. |
Client reporting is available, including the creation and distribution of custom statements. | |
|
Dashboard Visualization Real-time graphical dashboards with interactive analytics. |
Dashboards with real-time and interactive analytics are core elements of the UI. | |
|
Drill-Down Capabilities Ability to analyze data from summary down to transaction-level details. |
Drill-down capability is present across performance and holdings analytics screens. | |
|
Report Distribution Channels Number of supported distribution mechanisms (email, portal, print). |
. | No information available |
User Experience & Accessibility
(6 Yes /6 Known /7 Possible features)
|
Web-Based User Interface Full-featured, browser-accessible application interface. |
Web-based interface; users access via standard browsers. | |
|
Role-Based Access Control Fine-grained user permissions by function, portfolio, or asset class. |
Granular role-based access settings provided for enterprise clients. | |
|
Single Sign-On (SSO) Integration with Active Directory, OAuth, or similar identity services. |
Supports SSO (SAML, OAuth, enterprise integration). | |
|
Mobile Device Support Accessible via smartphones and tablets. |
Mobile access is supported; mobile web compatibility and some reporting/app options are mentioned in product collateral. | |
|
Self-Service Customization End-user ability to configure dashboards, reports, and alerts. |
Customizable dashboards and user-configurable alerts/reports are available features. | |
|
Localization & Multi-Language Support for multiple languages and regional formats. |
Multi-language interface and regional settings are available for global clients. | |
|
Concurrent User Capacity Maximum number of users that can operate the platform simultaneously. |
. | No information available |
Automation & Workflow
(4 Yes /4 Known /5 Possible features)
|
Task Automation Engine Rules-based scheduling and automation for routine workflows (trades, rebalancing, reporting). |
Workflow and rules-based automation for task scheduling are included. | |
|
Configurable Workflow Engine Tools for custom approval and exception handling flows. |
Workflow engine is configurable for automating approval and notification flows. | |
|
Notifications & Alerts Configurable system triggers for email/SMS/push notifications. |
Various notifications and alerts can be configured for multiple event types. | |
|
Rebalancing Automation Automated portfolio rebalancing according to model, drift or schedule. |
Portfolio rebalancing can be automated according to models. | |
|
Approval Steps per Workflow Maximum supported approval or sign-off steps in a workflow. |
. | No information available |
Security & Reliability
(5 Yes /5 Known /7 Possible features)
|
Encryption In Transit & At Rest End-to-end encryption for all sensitive data, both stored and transmitted. |
Data encryption for both at-rest and in-transit, detailed in security documentation. | |
|
Disaster Recovery (RTO/RPO) Defined Recovery Time Objectives and Recovery Point Objectives for failover. |
Disaster recovery features and SLAs described for enterprise clients. | |
|
Penetration Testing & Security Audits Regular, independent reviews of system security. |
Independent security audits and penetration testing are carried out regularly. | |
|
Uptime SLA Guaranteed minimum percentage uptime for service availability. |
. | No information available |
|
Data Backup Frequency Regularity of backups for all platform and client data. |
. | No information available |
|
Multi-Factor Authentication Support for MFA at login and for sensitive transactions. |
Multi-factor authentication supported for both login and sensitive actions. | |
|
Audit Logging Comprehensive logs for all user and system activities. |
Extensive logging of all user/system actions available. |
Support, Maintenance & Vendor Stability
(6 Yes /6 Known /7 Possible features)
|
24/7 Customer Support Accessibility of technical and operational support, round-the-clock. |
Morningstar Direct offers dedicated customer support, with extended hours and global support desks, though 24/7 is mentioned mostly for critical issues. | |
|
Service Level Agreements (SLAs) Contracted guarantees for support response and resolution times. |
Product includes defined SLAs as part of enterprise agreements. | |
|
Product Roadmap Transparency Clear visibility into upcoming features and enhancements. |
Product roadmap details and client communications are available per vendor releases. | |
|
Regular Software Updates Frequency of platform feature and security updates. |
. | No information available |
|
Documentation Quality Comprehensive, up-to-date user and developer documentation. |
Comprehensive documentation for users and developers available. | |
|
Vendor Financial Stability Evidence of corporate and financial durability of the provider. |
Morningstar Inc is a public company with stable financials; stability referenced in vendor materials. | |
|
Community & User Forums Availability of user communities for support & feature sharing. |
User forums and Morningstar community resources are accessible for Direct users. |
Portfolio Modeling Software for Portfolio Management
Tools that enable construction of model portfolios, scenario analysis, and strategy backtesting to optimize investment outcomes. These applications support what-if analysis, portfolio construction, and the evaluation of investment strategies before implementation.
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Portfolio Construction & Customization
(10 Yes /10 Known /10 Possible features)
|
Asset Universe Selection Ability to define and select the investable universe of securities (stocks, bonds, alternatives, etc.). |
Morningstar Direct allows users to define and select asset universes including stocks, bonds, funds, and alternatives. | |
|
Factor Modeling Support for multi-factor risk and return modeling (e.g., Fama-French, Barra). |
The platform supports factor models such as Fama-French in analytics and portfolio construction modules; factor exposure tools are specifically mentioned in documentation. | |
|
Model Portfolios Ability to create and manage model portfolios as templates. |
Model portfolio creation and management is a highlighted capability of Morningstar Direct. | |
|
Custom Constraints Flexible rules for asset weights, sectors, regions, risk limits, concentration, etc. |
Supports a range of custom constraints in weightings and exposures; documentation references flexible allocation rules. | |
|
Optimization Engine Algorithmic tools for optimizing allocations based on risk, return, or multiple objectives. |
An optimization engine is available within its portfolio construction and analytics suite. | |
|
Rebalancing Tools Automated or manual tools for portfolio rebalancing. |
Automated and manual rebalancing tools are documented as part of portfolio management workflows. | |
|
Scenario Analysis Ability to simulate various market conditions or shocks. |
Scenario analysis is specifically referenced in Morningstar’s literature and platform screenshots. | |
|
Multi-currency Support Ability to construct and track portfolios in multiple currencies. |
The system offers portfolio analysis and reporting in multiple currencies. | |
|
Automated Cash Management Tools for handling cash flows, subscriptions, and redemptions automatically. |
Cash flow tracking and automated handling options are described in the feature set. | |
|
ESG/SRI Filtering Integration of Environmental, Social, and Governance screening for portfolio assets. |
ESG/Sustainable investing filters are a prominent feature (Sustainalytics/Morningstar ESG integration). |
Risk Analytics and Measurement
(10 Yes /10 Known /10 Possible features)
|
Value at Risk (VaR) Calculation of portfolio or asset-level VaR metrics. |
VaR (Value at Risk) metrics can be calculated at portfolio and holding levels. | |
|
Stress Testing Scenario-based risk assessment against historical or hypothetical scenarios. |
Stress testing tools are part of risk analytics included in Morningstar Direct. | |
|
Attribution Analysis Performance and risk attribution tools by factor, sector, asset class etc. |
Risk/Performance attribution is available down to factor, sector, asset, and region levels. | |
|
Liquidity Risk Analysis Assessment of how quickly assets can be sold without impacting price. |
Liquidity analytics are available for assets in the portfolio analysis module. | |
|
Correlation Analysis Measurement of inter-asset and cross-portfolio correlations. |
Correlation analysis between assets, sectors, or benchmarks is a documented feature. | |
|
Drawdown Measurement Calculation of historical and current maximum drawdowns. |
Drawdown measurement and analysis is available for all time series within portfolio analytics. | |
|
Tracking Error Measurement of deviation from a benchmark index. |
Tracking error to major indices or custom benchmarks is a standard risk metric offered. | |
|
Risk/Reward Metrics Availability of metrics such as Sharpe Ratio, Sortino, Information Ratio, etc. |
Risk/reward metrics such as Sharpe, Sortino, and Information Ratio are available in reporting and analytics. | |
|
Real-time Risk Calculations Support for intraday or real-time calculation of major risk metrics. |
Real-time intraday risk calculations are not a standard offering; risk calculations are based on daily data. Near-real-time available for some use cases. | |
|
Beta Calculation Calculation of beta to major indices or custom benchmarks. |
Beta calculations to standard and custom benchmarks are supported within portfolio analytics. |
Reporting and Visualization
(9 Yes /9 Known /10 Possible features)
|
Custom Report Builder Ability to design and generate custom reports for stakeholders. |
Custom report builder tools are offered and are a core feature for delivering stakeholder-specific outputs. | |
|
Automated Scheduled Reports Support for automated delivery of periodic performance and risk reports. |
Scheduled, automated reporting is available for performance, risk, and other metrics. | |
|
Data Export Options Export data/reports to Excel, PDF, PowerPoint, CSV, etc. |
Exports supported to Excel, PDF, PPT, and CSV formats. | |
|
Interactive Dashboards Web-based or desktop dashboards for exploring portfolio data interactively. |
Interactive, web-based dashboards for portfolio, peer group, and market analytics. | |
|
Benchmarking Tools Visualization of portfolio vs. benchmark performance. |
Benchmarking tools for performance vs. benchmarks are standard in performance analytics. | |
|
Drill-down Analytics Ability to drill down from summary to detail, including holdings-level views. |
Drill-down analytics are supported, enabling users to move from summary to holding or security level. | |
|
Regulatory Compliance Reporting Pre-configured templates for regulatory disclosures. |
Regulatory templates are available for common frameworks in reports. | |
|
Client Statement Generation On-demand or batch production of investor/client statements. |
Generation of client and investor statements is a supported function. | |
|
Branded Customization Support for client or firm branding in output documents. |
Branded/customizable output support is available for client-facing documents. | |
|
Data Visualization Speed Time required to render large portfolio visualizations or dashboards. |
. | No information available |
Data Integration & Coverage
(6 Yes /7 Known /10 Possible features)
|
Market Data Integration Integration with major market data providers (Bloomberg, Refinitiv, others). |
Integration with Bloomberg and Refinitiv, among other major market data vendors, is documented. | |
|
Real-time Price Feeds Support for live security pricing updates. |
No information available | |
|
Historical Data Coverage Access to deep historical prices, returns, corporate actions. |
Deep historical coverage is a key advantage; data goes back several decades for many securities. | |
|
Alternative Data Sources Integration with ESG, sentiment, macro, or specialty data sets. |
ESG, macro, and specialty data sourced and available thanks to partnerships and internal data collection. | |
|
Instrument Coverage Breadth Number of securities/instruments supported. |
No information available | |
|
APIs for Data Import/Export APIs for ingesting portfolio/strategy data and extracting output programmatically. |
APIs are available for data ingestion and export, including for portfolio uploads. | |
|
Custom Data Mapping Support for user-defined instrument or classification schemes. |
Not as far as we are aware.* Custom data mapping is limited to preset categories; user-defined schemes are not fully supported. | |
|
Frequency of Data Updates How often database is refreshed with new data. |
. | No information available |
|
Third-party OMS/EMS Integration Integration with Order Management/Execution Management Systems. |
OMS/EMS integrations are possible via partners and Morningstar APIs. | |
|
Cloud Data Access Web-based, cloud storage, and remote-access options for data. |
Cloud-based, web application with secure data access from anywhere. |
Performance Measurement
(9 Yes /9 Known /10 Possible features)
|
Time-weighted Return (TWR) Support for TWR calculation on portfolio and component level. |
TWR is supported for any portfolio or account using the analytics modules. | |
|
Money-weighted Return (IRR/XIRR) Calculation of internal rate of return methods. |
Money-weighted return (IRR/XIRR) calculations are supported and documented. | |
|
Gross and Net Performance Calculation of returns before and after fees/expenses. |
Gross and net performance presentation, including fee/expense impacts, is supported. | |
|
Performance Attribution Ability to analyze sources of returns at various levels. |
Performance attribution analysis is included and customizable. | |
|
Custom Period Calculation Support for non-standard or custom time periods. |
Custom periods (non-standard timeframes) can be set for return/risk analytics. | |
|
Rolling Periods Analysis View returns/risk by rolling periods (e.g., trailing 1, 3, 5 years). |
Rolling periods (e.g. trailing 1, 3, 5 years) are available for analysis. | |
|
Multi-currency Returns Returns in base and local currencies, with currency impact analysis. |
Multi-currency return analytics, including currency impact, are supported. | |
|
Dividend/Income Tracking Account for and analyze impact of dividends, coupons, distributions. |
Tracks income such as dividends and distributions at portfolio and security level. | |
|
Peer Group Comparison Comparative returns versus peer group/fund category. |
Peer group comparison to funds and mandates is a signature feature. | |
|
Speed of Performance Calculation Time required to compute returns over multi-year periods. |
. | No information available |
Workflow & Collaboration
(4 Yes /4 Known /10 Possible features)
|
User Access Management Control permissions by team member role and portfolio. |
User roles and access rights can be managed by account administrators. | |
|
Version Control Track portfolio/model version histories and restore prior states. |
No information available | |
|
Change Audit Trail Comprehensive logging of changes to portfolio and settings. |
No information available | |
|
Collaboration Notes/Comments Internal note system and workflow tagging. |
No information available | |
|
Task Assignment/Tracking Assign and monitor tasks related to portfolio management. |
No information available | |
|
Notification & Alert System Customizable in-app or email alerts for key events. |
Notifications and alerts for portfolio, compliance, and data changes are available. | |
|
Portfolio Sharing Share models/data securely with colleagues or clients. |
Portfolio sharing (read-only or editable) is available with proper permissions. | |
|
Approval Workflow Multi-stage approvals for allocation or trading decisions. |
No information available | |
|
Template Library Central repository for commonly used models/templates. |
Model library feature allows central templates for portfolio models. | |
|
Concurrent User Support Number of users who can work on portfolios simultaneously. |
. | No information available |
Compliance & Regulation
(0 Yes /0 Known /10 Possible features)
|
Rule-based Compliance Engine Flexible creation and application of investment guidelines. |
. | No information available |
|
Pre-trade Compliance Checks Monitor guideline adherence before trades are executed. |
. | No information available |
|
Post-trade Compliance Monitoring Ongoing monitoring and reporting of breaches. |
. | No information available |
|
Automated Breach Alerts Automatic alerting when compliance rules are violated. |
. | No information available |
|
Documentation Management Archive regulatory, legal, and guidelines documentation. |
. | No information available |
|
Audit Trail of Compliance Actions Complete record of checks, alerts, and actions taken. |
. | No information available |
|
Global Regulatory Support Support for regional regulatory frameworks (UCITS, 1940 Act, ESMA, etc.). |
. | No information available |
|
KYC/AML Integration Built-in or integrated Know Your Customer/Anti-Money Laundering tools. |
. | No information available |
|
Regulatory Filing Generation Automated production of required filings (Form PF, N-PORT, etc.). |
. | No information available |
|
Compliance Rule Capacity Maximum number of distinct rules or guidelines supported. |
. | No information available |
User Interface & Usability
(7 Yes /7 Known /10 Possible features)
|
Customizable Workspace Personalize layouts, dashboards, and menus. |
Customizable workspace via dashboards and configurable interface. | |
|
Multi-language Support Availability of platform in multiple languages. |
Multi-language available for global user base. | |
|
Mobile/Tablet Access Optimized interface for mobile or tablet devices. |
Accessible via dedicated iPad app and mobile-optimized web. | |
|
Accessibility Features Compliance with accessibility standards such as WCAG. |
WCAG and accessibility support documented for client-facing views. | |
|
Drag-and-drop Functionality Interactive features for easier manipulation of portfolio components. |
Drag-and-drop supported in portfolio construction modules. | |
|
Navigation Speed Time to load or navigate typical screens. |
. | No information available |
|
Onboarding Tutorials Built-in guided product tours and helpsheets. |
Onboarding guides and tutorials are included for new users. | |
|
Keyboard Shortcuts Support for hotkeys/shortcuts across major tasks. |
No information available | |
|
Client View Mode View interface/outputs as an end-client would see them. |
No information available | |
|
Bulk Editing Tools Efficiently edit or update many portfolio elements at once. |
Features for editing multiple portfolio elements at once described in UI documentation. |
Security & Reliability
(8 Yes /8 Known /10 Possible features)
|
Data Encryption (at rest/in transit) Sensitive data encrypted both on server and during transmission. |
Data is encrypted at rest and in transit according to Morningstar security materials. | |
|
User Authentication Methods Multi-factor authentication and SSO support. |
Supports SSO and MFA login options reported on product security documentation. | |
|
Backup & Restore Automated data backups and version restores. |
Automated backups and restore capabilities part of the SaaS infrastructure. | |
|
Penetration Testing / Vulnerability Assessments Regular security testing of software and infrastructure. |
Regular penetration and vulnerability testing is described in product documentation. | |
|
Uptime SLA Service Level Agreement for uptime/reliability. |
. | No information available |
|
Disaster Recovery Plan Documented process for rapid data and service recovery. |
Disaster recovery plan described in enterprise and SOC 2 documents. | |
|
Data Center Location Disclosure Transparency around physical and cloud hosting environments. |
Cloud and physical data center disclosure is available upon client request. | |
|
Concurrent Session Limit Number of simultaneous device logins permitted per user. |
. | No information available |
|
Granular Role Permissions Ability to assign permissions at a granular feature level. |
Role-based access and granular feature permissions are supported. | |
|
Audit Logs Track all user/system access and platform events. |
Audit logs available for system and user activity. |
Integration & Extensibility
(3 Yes /3 Known /10 Possible features)
|
Open API Access Full-featured APIs for integrating with internal/external applications. |
APIs are documented and available for external integration. | |
|
Custom Plug-ins/Extensions Ability to build/install custom analytics or interfaces. |
No information available | |
|
Support for Python/R/Matlab Native support for popular programming and analytics languages. |
Morningstar Direct supports Python access (Morningstar Direct Python API). | |
|
Excel Integration Ingest/export data directly from/to Microsoft Excel. |
Direct Excel integration is a flagship feature, enabling data import/export. | |
|
Webhook Support Event-driven notifications that can trigger external processes. |
No information available | |
|
Pre-built Connectors Standard data and workflow connectors for third-party applications. |
. | No information available |
|
Marketplace for Add-ons Ecosystem for third-party analytics, data sources, and modules. |
. | No information available |
|
Code Library Sharing Central repository for firm or community-developed modeling code. |
. | No information available |
|
Integration Setup Time Average time to establish a connection with major external systems. |
. | No information available |
|
Support for Batch Processes Schedule and run analytics or imports/exports in batch. |
. | No information available |
Performance Attribution Systems for Portfolio Management
Solutions that analyze and decompose investment performance to identify sources of returns and attribution to specific investment decisions, sectors, or factors. These systems help portfolio managers understand drivers of performance and adjust strategies accordingly.
More Performance Attribution Systems
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Data Integration
(7 Yes /8 Known /10 Possible features)
|
Multi-Source Data Ingestion Ability to import data from multiple custodians, fund administrators, market data vendors, and internal systems. |
Morningstar Direct integrates with multiple custodians, fund admin, market data vendors, and internal systems - as seen from its support for consolidated portfolio analytics. | |
|
Data Normalization Automatic harmonization of data formats and conventions across sources. |
Morningstar Direct performs data harmonization and normalization across numerous sources and data types for analysis. | |
|
Real-Time Data Processing Support for processing data in real-time or near real-time for timely attribution. |
Not as far as we are aware.* Morningstar Direct provides periodic not true real-time data. Confirmed via product documentation – updates are typically daily or batch; near-real-time not featured. | |
|
Data Validation & Quality Checks Built-in rules and checks to identify, flag, and correct anomalies in portfolio, market, and reference data. |
Product includes multiple data quality and validation layers before data is released to users. | |
|
Corporate Actions Processing Automated adjustment and integration of corporate actions into datasets and performance calculations. |
Morningstar Direct incorporates corporate actions adjustments as part of investment/performance calculations. | |
|
Flexible Data Mapping Customizable mapping interface to align system-required data fields with source fields. |
Product supports customizable data mapping via import interfaces. | |
|
Data History Support Ability to handle long-term historical datasets for back-testing and trend analysis. |
Historical return/price/portfolio history datasets are available for back-testing and trend analysis. | |
|
Data Upload Speed Rate at which the system can upload data files. |
No information available | |
|
Automated Data Refresh Frequency How often data feeds can be automatically refreshed. |
No information available | |
|
API Availability Provision of APIs for data integration with other platforms. |
APIs for data integration are documented in Morningstar Direct integration materials. |
Attribution Methodologies
(7 Yes /7 Known /12 Possible features)
|
Multi-Level Attribution Analysis Support for total, top-down, bottom-up, Brinson, factor-based and hybrid attribution models. |
Morningstar Direct supports total, top-down, sector, factor, and hybrid performance attribution models. | |
|
Custom Attribution Models User-defined and configurable attribution models to suit firm-specific requirements. |
Custom models can be configured using custom benchmarking and user-defined grouping. | |
|
Support for Equity Attribution Full implementation of equity return attribution methodologies. |
Equity attribution standard is a core feature for fund/portfolio analysis. | |
|
Fixed Income Attribution Support for bond, credit, yield curve, spread, and duration-based attribution. |
Morningstar Direct offers fixed income attribution including spread, duration, and curve effects. | |
|
Multi-Asset Attribution Ability to handle portfolios with multiple asset classes and aggregate attribution results. |
Multi-asset class attribution is possible in client/group reports as per product marketing. | |
|
Currency Attribution Measurement of the impact of currency selection and currency management on returns. |
Currency impact on performance is a standard part of return decomposition. | |
|
Leverage Attribution Extension to calculate the performance impacts of leverage and derivatives. |
No information available | |
|
Look-Through Attribution Drill-down capability to underlying securities or funds (e.g., ETFs, mutual funds). |
No information available | |
|
Multi-Period Attribution Ability to aggregate and decompose performance over custom periods. |
Supports multi-period attribution aggregation and decomposition. | |
|
Residual Analysis Captures unexplained or residual returns for deeper investigation. |
No information available | |
|
Attribution Granularity Smallest possible granularity for reporting (e.g., sector, region, security). |
No information available | |
|
Turnover Attribution Measures impact of trading activity on performance. |
No information available |
Accuracy and Calculation Quality
(1 Yes /1 Known /9 Possible features)
|
GIPS Compliance Calculation methodologies are compliant with Global Investment Performance Standards (GIPS). |
No information available | |
|
Reconciliation Tools Built-in reconciliation of position-level data with accounting, custody, and front-office records. |
Reconciliation tools are part of position, transaction, and cash data management in Direct. | |
|
Audit Trail Complete logging of calculation steps and data changes for compliance and troubleshooting. |
No information available | |
|
Error Margin Reporting Confidence intervals or error margins provided for attribution results. |
No information available | |
|
Simultaneous Multi-Period Calculations Ability to perform calculations for multiple periods in parallel. |
No information available | |
|
Customizable Holiday Calendars Allows choosing/defining holiday calendars for date-sensitive calculations. |
No information available | |
|
Rounding & Precision Configuration Settings to control display and calculation precision for all outputs. |
No information available | |
|
Comprehensive Error Logging Transparent description and reporting of calculation errors/warnings. |
No information available | |
|
Calculation Speed Average time taken to process attribution calculations for a standard portfolio. |
No information available |
Reporting & Visualization
(6 Yes /7 Known /9 Possible features)
|
Customizable Reports Editable and re-usable report templates matching branding and client needs. |
Morningstar Direct provides customizable reporting, including branding and template re-use. | |
|
Dynamic Dashboards Interactive dashboards for slicing, dicing and visualizing attribution data. |
Interactive dashboards are provided according to product marketing. | |
|
Export Formats Ability to export results in PDF, Excel, CSV, PPT, and more. |
Exports to Excel, PDF, PowerPoint, and other formats are available. | |
|
Automated Report Scheduling Set and schedule automatic delivery of periodic reports. |
Reports can be scheduled and delivered automatically. | |
|
Data Visualization Options Range of charts, heatmaps, tables, and graphs for intuitive results analysis. |
Multiple charts, heatmaps, and visual data analysis options in reporting toolkit. | |
|
Drill-Down & Drill-Through Users can explore attribution from high-level summaries to underlying security-level details. |
Users can drill down from top-level to underlying data in reporting. | |
|
Multi-Language Reporting Display results in multiple languages based on client preferences. |
Not as far as we are aware.* Product materials and UI are in English. Multi-language reporting is not widely advertised or visible in documentation. | |
|
Report Generation Speed Average time to generate a standard performance attribution report. |
No information available | |
|
Accessibility Features Support for accessibility (e.g., screen readers, colorblind palettes) in all reports and dashboards. |
No information available |
User Access and Security
(4 Yes /4 Known /8 Possible features)
|
Role-Based Access Controls Flexible user roles to control permissions for viewing or editing portfolios and reports. |
Role-based permissions can be set for user and team access to portfolios/reports. | |
|
Multi-Factor Authentication Extra layer of user authentication to prevent unauthorized access. |
No information available | |
|
Single Sign-On Integration Integration with enterprise SSO solutions for ease and control. |
Morningstar Direct supports SSO via SAML/Active Directory integration. | |
|
Data Encryption (In Transit/At Rest) Encryption of sensitive data both during transfer and in storage. |
Standard for major SaaS - encryption in transit and at rest is referenced by vendor for Direct. | |
|
User Activity Logging Comprehensive audit of user actions for compliance and oversight. |
No information available | |
|
Granular Permission Levels Admin can specify permissions down to specific portfolios or systems. |
Granular portfolio/user permissioning referenced in user management documentation. | |
|
Session Timeout Setting Adjustable session inactivity timeout for added security. |
No information available | |
|
Number of Simultaneous Users Supported System’s capacity to serve multiple concurrent users without degradation. |
No information available |
Scalability & Performance
(2 Yes /2 Known /7 Possible features)
|
Horizontal Scalability System accommodates increased loads by adding more servers or cloud resources. |
Cloud-based product with scaling resources for larger user bases as referenced in Morningstar architecture docs. | |
|
Vertical Scalability Improved performance through hardware upgrades without architectural changes. |
Vertical scalability supported via cloud deployment – more compute/storage as needed. | |
|
Automatic Load Balancing Dynamically balances system resources during high-activity periods. |
No information available | |
|
Maximum Portfolio Size Largest supported portfolio (in number of securities) for accurate attribution. |
No information available | |
|
Maximum Portfolios Supported Total portfolios the system can process in parallel. |
No information available | |
|
Latency under Load Average response time when handling system’s maximum load. |
No information available | |
|
Concurrent Calculations Capability Number of attribution calculations processed in parallel. |
No information available |
Automation & Workflow Management
(3 Yes /3 Known /6 Possible features)
|
Automated Data Import Scheduled or event-driven import of data without manual intervention. |
Data integration and file imports can be scheduled or automated in Direct. | |
|
Automated Exception Handling Systematic treatment of data or calculation issues with notification and escalation. |
No information available | |
|
Workflow Customization Users can define, save, and manage custom workflows for their teams. |
No information available | |
|
Batch Processing Simultaneous execution of recurring calculations or reports for multiple portfolios. |
Batch processing of calculations and reporting jobs is available. | |
|
Alerting & Notification Automated alerts for issues like data delays, reconciliation failures, or unusual results. |
Alert notifications for failed data loads, scheduled report failures, etc. are available. | |
|
Workflow Audit and Tracking Complete history of all automated and manual process execution. |
No information available |
Compliance & Regulatory Support
(5 Yes /5 Known /5 Possible features)
|
Regulatory Reporting Templates Built-in templates for regulatory and client reporting (UCITS, GIPS, MiFID II, etc). |
Morningstar provides regulatory report formats (e.g., GIPS) out-of-the-box. | |
|
Audit Readiness Capabilities to produce structured logs and documentation required for audits. |
Audit logs and documentation available upon request per compliance module. | |
|
Regulatory Framework Updates Timely system updates when new rules apply to performance and attribution. |
Updates to regulatory changes and data standards are periodically released by Morningstar. | |
|
Data Retention Controls Ability to manage historical data storage per retention policies. |
Data retention configurations are part of enterprise deployment options. | |
|
Client-Specific Compliance Configuration Tailoring outputs to unique compliance needs of clients. |
Compliance configuration and client-level constraints can be managed for specific portfolios/clients. |
Integration & Extensibility
(3 Yes /3 Known /6 Possible features)
|
Open API Access Rich, documented APIs for data query, update, and systems integration. |
APIs are available for data query, update, integration with client systems. | |
|
Plugin Framework Support for firm-specific modules, custom analytics, or reporting plugins. |
No information available | |
|
Bidirectional Data Flows Export and re-import enriched or augmented attribution data. |
No information available | |
|
Integration with OMS/PMS Direct connection with Order Management and Portfolio Management Systems. |
Direct integrates with OMS/PMS like Bloomberg and Advent according to integration docs. | |
|
Third-Party Data Provider Integration Plug-and-play integration with major market and reference data vendors. |
Integrates with market/reference data providers (e.g. FactSet, Reuters). | |
|
Webhooks / Event Hooks Trigger actions in other systems based on events in the attribution platform. |
No information available |
Client Support & Training
(4 Yes /4 Known /6 Possible features)
|
Dedicated Account Management Each client has a dedicated manager or team for support and relationship management. |
Morningstar offers dedicated account management for institutional clients. | |
|
24/7 Technical Support Round-the-clock support availability for critical issues. |
No information available | |
|
Onboarding & Training Programs Structured onboarding, documentation, and in-person or online training. |
Formal onboarding, training sessions, and support documentation are provided. | |
|
Knowledgebase Access Comprehensive online documentation, FAQ, and tutorials. |
Online documentation, tutorials, and FAQs are available. | |
|
User Community Access to forums or user groups to share best practices. |
User community forums and events are available for knowledge sharing. | |
|
Response Time SLA Guaranteed maximum initial response time for support requests. |
No information available |
Market Data Terminals for Investment Research & Analysis
Professional financial information platforms that provide real-time market data, news, analytics, and research tools for investment professionals. Examples include Bloomberg Terminal, Refinitiv Eikon, and FactSet.
More Market Data Terminals
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Market Data Coverage
(10 Yes /10 Known /14 Possible features)
|
Real-Time Data Access to streaming, real-time financial market data. |
Morningstar Direct offers live global market data streams, as referenced on the product website under its real-time portfolio analytics and monitoring. | |
|
Historical Data Depth Length of time for which historical market data is available. |
No information available | |
|
Global Markets Coverage Number of countries/regions for which market data is offered. |
No information available | |
|
Asset Class Breadth Number of asset classes supported (e.g., equities, fixed income, FX, commodities, derivatives). |
No information available | |
|
Market Depth (Level II/Order Book Data) Availability of order book and depth of market information. |
Level II/order book market depth data is available for selected securities, as shown in real-time market data integration features. | |
|
Corporate Actions Data Access to data on splits, dividends, mergers, and other corporate actions. |
Corporate actions (dividends, splits, M&As) are tracked extensively for all covered securities and disclosed in the product. | |
|
Fundamental Data Availability of company fundamentals such as financial statements, ratios, and estimates. |
Morningstar is known for company fundamentals and analytics; financial ratios and statements are a core feature of the platform. | |
|
Alternative Data Inclusion of non-traditional datasets (e.g., satellite imagery, web scraping, sentiment scores). |
Morningstar has alternative datasets including ESG scores, fund flows, and sustainability metrics. | |
|
Timeliness of Data Updates Average delay in delivery of updated financial data. |
No information available | |
|
Economic Indicators Availability of macroeconomic data, forecasts, and releases. |
Economic indicators and macroeconomic releases are available in research modules and data library. | |
|
Earnings Calendar Comprehensive calendar for tracking upcoming earnings announcements. |
Morningstar Direct includes a configurable earnings calendar for public companies. | |
|
ETF & Fund Data Detailed holdings, flows, and analytics for funds and ETFs. |
Comprehensive ETF & mutual fund analytics, flows, and holdings are a core part of Morningstar Direct. | |
|
Index Constituent Data Constituent makeup and real-time performance of major indices. |
Index constituent data is available for all major benchmarks - listed as a feature under index analytics. | |
|
Broker and Trade Feeds Integration with trade/quote feeds from major brokers and exchanges. |
Platform integrates with trade/quote feeds and custodians for portfolio analysis, as detailed in integration documentation. |
News & Research
(12 Yes /12 Known /13 Possible features)
|
Real-Time News Feed Delivery of news headlines and stories in real time. |
Live financial news is included; Morningstar has partnerships with Dow Jones and other newswires. | |
|
Research Library Availability of a searchable database of research reports from analysts and institutions. |
The product has an in-depth and searchable research library with both in-house and third-party reports. | |
|
Proprietary Analytics Availability of in-house analytics and expert insights. |
Morningstar Direct uses proprietary analytics such as star ratings and risk metrics. | |
|
Third-Party Research Aggregation Integration of third-party research content within the platform. |
Third-party research aggregation available alongside Morningstar's own research. | |
|
Customizable News Alerts User-defined alerts for breaking news on tickers, markets, or keywords. |
Flexible, customizable news alerts are part of the platform, per UI documentation. | |
|
Multilingual News News coverage and translation available in multiple languages. |
No information available | |
|
Sector/Industry Analysis Curated sector and industry analysis for deeper insights. |
Sector and industry analytics are core offerings, with modules for sector weight and analysis. | |
|
Event Calendar Calendar functionality for important market events, such as economic releases and IPOs. |
Market and economic event calendar is present, including earnings and macroeconomic events. | |
|
Sentiment Analysis Sentiment scores derived from news and social media. |
Sentiment analysis tools, especially for ESG and news sentiment, are built-in. | |
|
Analyst Ratings & Estimates Consensus analyst ratings and earnings estimates on listed companies. |
Consensus analyst ratings and earnings estimates are available for public companies. | |
|
News Clipping/Archiving Ability to bookmark and organize news stories. |
Ability to bookmark and organize news stories for later review. | |
|
Document Search & Filtering Advanced search and filtering for news and research documents. |
Research and document search/filtering is robust and well-documented. | |
|
Regulatory Filings Access Direct access to regulatory filings (e.g., SEC, SEDAR, etc.). |
Direct access to regulatory filings such as SEC documents is supported. |
Analytical Tools & Charting
(11 Yes /11 Known /12 Possible features)
|
Advanced Charting Interactive, multi-format charting with technical indicators. |
Advanced charting with multiple formats and technical indicators is a key platform feature. | |
|
Custom Indicator Creation Ability to create and save personalized technical indicators. |
Users can create and save custom technical indicators. | |
|
Backtesting Tools Simulate strategies based on historical data. |
Historical backtesting for user strategies is included in analysis modules. | |
|
Risk/Return Analytics Calculation of risk and return metrics (Sharpe ratio, beta, etc.). |
Risk/return analytics, including Sharpe and beta, are core metrics throughout the terminal. | |
|
Screening and Filtering Stock, bond, and fund screeners with advanced criteria. |
Comprehensive screening and filtering for stocks, funds, bonds, and ETFs. | |
|
Portfolio Analytics Performance attribution, scenario analysis, exposure breakdown. |
Portfolio analytics with performance attribution, exposure, and scenario analysis are central to Morningstar Direct. | |
|
Scenario Simulation Stress testing under user-defined or historical scenarios. |
Scenario simulation modules for stress testing are integrated. | |
|
Comparative Analysis Side-by-side comparison of securities, sectors, or countries. |
Comparative analytics for side-by-side comparisons are provided in both security- and fund-level analysis. | |
|
Market Heatmaps Visual heatmaps of market movers by chosen criteria. |
Market heatmaps for price performance and risk are available in advanced analytics dashboards. | |
|
Real-Time Chart Refresh Rate The frequency with which charts are updated. |
No information available | |
|
Downloadable Chart/Image Exports Ability to export and share charts in various formats. |
Charts and reports can be downloaded as images/PDFs. | |
|
Historical Correlation Analysis Correlation and regression tools for instruments and indices. |
Historical correlation and regression tools for securities and indices are available. |
User Interface & Experience
(7 Yes /7 Known /11 Possible features)
|
Customizable Workspace Layouts Ability to save and switch between user-defined workspace configurations. |
Workspace layouts can be customized and saved for later use. | |
|
Multi-Monitor Support Native support for multiple screens/setups. |
No information available | |
|
Keyboard Shortcuts Broad menu of shortcuts for rapid navigation and workflow. |
Keyboard shortcuts for efficient navigation are supported. | |
|
Theme/Color Customization Support for dark mode and color schemes. |
Theme and color customization including dark/light mode. | |
|
Language Options Number of supported interface languages. |
No information available | |
|
Responsive Design Platform adapts to different device sizes (desktop, tablet, phone). |
Responsive design is part of the web-based interface supporting multiple devices. | |
|
User Onboarding/Tutorials Integrated product training and guided walkthroughs. |
Onboarding tutorials and integrated walkthroughs are standard for new users. | |
|
Accessibility Support Features supporting visually/hearing-impaired users (e.g., screen reader compatibility). |
Accessible design for visually impaired users is mentioned in accessibility documentation. | |
|
Workflow Automation Tools Scripting, macros, or automation of repetitive actions. |
No information available | |
|
User Profile Personalization Save personal settings, favorites, and workspace in a user profile. |
Personal user profiles with saved workspaces and settings. | |
|
Fast Start-up Time Time required for the platform to fully launch from cold start. |
No information available |
Integration & Connectivity
(7 Yes /7 Known /9 Possible features)
|
API Access Availability of REST, WebSocket, and other APIs for programmatic access. |
Morningstar Direct provides API access for programmatic interactions. | |
|
Excel Integration Native add-ins or plugins to link data and analytics into Excel. |
Excel add-in integration is one of the flagship features. | |
|
Export to Common Formats Support for exporting data to CSV, XLSX, PDF, and other formats. |
Exports to CSV, XLSX, PDF, and similar formats are supported throughout the platform. | |
|
Third-Party Application Add-ons Marketplace or support for third-party analytics tools and plugins. |
No information available | |
|
OMS/EMS Platform Connectivity Integration with order/execution management systems. |
Order/execution management system connectivity available for selected clients, as referenced in integration guides. | |
|
Collaboration Tools Integration Seamless transfer/sharing of data into Slack, Teams, email, etc. |
No information available | |
|
Single Sign-On Support Centralized login using enterprise credentials. |
Enterprise SSO and SAML authentication supported per IT documentation. | |
|
Custom Data Feeds User-uploaded data or custom feed support. |
Users can upload and use custom datasets and data feeds. | |
|
Mobile App Availability Companion mobile app for remote access. |
Mobile app for iOS and Android is available for portfolio monitoring and alerts. |
Collaboration & Communication
(3 Yes /3 Known /8 Possible features)
|
Shared Workspace/Watchlist Ability to create, share, and co-edit watchlists among teams. |
No information available | |
|
Annotation Tools Add notes, highlights, and comments directly to charts and documents. |
Users can add notes and highlights to charts and reports. | |
|
Internal Messaging/Chat Real-time messaging and discussion within the terminal. |
No information available | |
|
Document Sharing Send and share research documents with colleagues. |
Research documents can be securely shared with colleagues via the platform. | |
|
Version Control Track edits and maintain versions of shared research outputs. |
No information available | |
|
Audio/Video Call Integration Start audio or video meetings directly from the platform. |
No information available | |
|
Collaborative Editing Multiple users can edit analysis or notes simultaneously. |
No information available | |
|
Permission/Access Controls Manage user roles and access levels for shared content. |
Administrators can manage permission/access controls for shared data and workspaces. |
Security & Compliance
(6 Yes /6 Known /8 Possible features)
|
End-to-End Encryption Data encrypted during transfer and storage. |
End-to-end encryption for user and data communication is part of platform security policy. | |
|
Multi-Factor Authentication Requirements for two-factor/multi-factor authentication of users. |
Multi-factor authentication is available (via SMS, mobile app, or email), per security documentation. | |
|
Role-Based Access Control Configurable access permissions based on user roles. |
Role-based user access and group-based configuration is supported. | |
|
Audit Trail Comprehensive logs of all user and system actions. |
Detailed, exportable audit trails/logs are accessible to administrators and auditors. | |
|
Regulatory Compliance Certifications Platform certified for SOC2, ISO 27001, GDPR, and others. |
Morningstar is SOC 2 certified, GDPR compliant, and offers documentation to substantiate regulatory compliance. | |
|
Data Residency Options Choice of region for data storage, to meet local regulations. |
No information available | |
|
Data Retention Policy Control Configurable retention of historical user data and logs. |
No information available | |
|
Secure Document Storage Encrypted, access-controlled storage for sensitive documents and research. |
Secure document storage with encryption and documented access controls. |
Customer Support & Service
(7 Yes /7 Known /8 Possible features)
|
24/7 Technical Support Round-the-clock access to troubleshooting and assistance. |
24/7 technical support is advertised for enterprise clients. | |
|
Dedicated Account Managers Assigned points of contact for personalized support. |
Dedicated account management is an available support tier. | |
|
In-Platform Help/Live Chat Live chat with support staff directly within the terminal. |
Live chat and in-platform help desk is part of the interface. | |
|
Multilingual Support Support offered in all major languages. |
Multilingual support staff for all major languages is available. | |
|
Self-Help Knowledge Base Comprehensive documentation, FAQs, and video training. |
Extensive documentation, FAQs, and training videos available in the knowledge base. | |
|
Proactive Service Notifications Automated alerts for scheduled maintenance, downtime, or new features. |
Automated email and platform alerts for scheduled maintenance and new features. | |
|
User Community/Forum Accessible user community for peer support and best practices. |
Active user forums and moderated peer support community. | |
|
Average Support Response Time Typical time to first response for customer inquiries. |
No information available |
Performance & Reliability
(2 Yes /2 Known /7 Possible features)
|
System Uptime SLA Guaranteed platform availability (service level agreement). |
No information available | |
|
Average Data Feed Latency Typical time lag from event to data availability. |
No information available | |
|
Maximum Concurrent Users Supported Number of users that can simultaneously use the platform with no degradation. |
No information available | |
|
Disaster Recovery/Failover Systems Resilience and redundancy in case of system failure. |
Redundant cloud hosting and disaster recovery protocols are detailed in IT documentation. | |
|
Scalability Ability to scale system resources dynamically in response to demand. |
Morningstar Direct scales dynamically for both small and large clients as a SaaS solution. | |
|
Offline/Data Snapshot Mode Capability to function and access core data/tools with intermittent connectivity. |
No information available | |
|
Speed of Data Query/Download Average time to fill a user data request. |
No information available |
Cost & Commercial Terms
(7 Yes /7 Known /8 Possible features)
|
Transparent Pricing Structure Clearly communicated product fees and components. |
Pricing and subscription structure is published openly and clearly on the public website. | |
|
Flexible Subscription Options Support for monthly, annual, and enterprise agreements. |
Multiple subscription types are available including for enterprises and smaller firms. | |
|
Per-User Licensing Charges based on number of named or concurrent users. |
Licensing is per user, with different price tiers for named/concurrent users. | |
|
Trial/Evaluation Period Ability to use the product in full or partially before purchase. |
Trial/eval periods are explicitly available for prospective clients. | |
|
Pay-As-You-Go Pricing Usage-based pricing models available. |
No information available | |
|
Add-On Feature Pricing Option to pay only for add-ons or specific modules required. |
Modular add-on features and a-la-carte menu for advanced analytics (including ESG) are supported. | |
|
Contractual Flexibility Ease of changing or terminating user contracts. |
Contracts can be upgraded, downgraded, or terminated with notice per terms. | |
|
Discounts for Volume/Commitment Price decreases for higher usage or longer-term commitments. |
Discounts for longer-term or higher-volume commitments are available per commercial documentation. |
Training & Onboarding
(6 Yes /6 Known /7 Possible features)
|
Structured Onboarding Process Guided start for new clients to learn key features and workflows. |
Structured onboarding with dedicated support is offered for new clients. | |
|
Live Training Sessions Access to regularly scheduled live product training (virtual or in-person). |
Regular live and virtual group training sessions are available. | |
|
Custom Training Programs Tailored training based on user role or organization need. |
Custom training for large institutional clients can be arranged. | |
|
In-Product Walkthroughs Interactive feature tours for instant familiarization. |
Integrated product walkthroughs and guided tours for new features. | |
|
Video Tutorials Library Extensive, on-demand video training for all key features. |
Extensive on-demand video tutorial library offered for all major workflows. | |
|
Certifications Official certification programs to verify user skills. |
No information available | |
|
Learning Path/Progress Tracking Monitor trainees’ completion and proficiency. |
Progress tracking and learning paths are available in institutional training modules. |
Quantitative Analysis Tools for Investment Research & Analysis
Software for statistical analysis, econometric modeling, and quantitative research to identify patterns, correlations, and potential investment opportunities based on historical data and mathematical models.
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Data Integration & Management
(9 Yes /9 Known /10 Possible features)
|
Multi-source Data Import Ability to import data from various internal and external sources including APIs, CSVs, Excel, and databases. |
Morningstar Direct supports import of portfolio holdings via files (Excel/CSV) and APIs, and integrates with custodians and external data providers. | |
|
Real-time Data Feeds Support for continuous ingestion of live market and financial data. |
Morningstar Direct offers real-time security pricing, market data, and feeds from sources like Morningstar and data partners. | |
|
Historical Data Storage Capacity to store and retrieve large volumes of historical data for backtesting and analysis. |
No information available | |
|
Data Cleansing Tools Tools for removing duplicates, handling missing values, and normalizing data formats. |
The platform offers data cleansing for imports, including deduplication and customizable field mapping. | |
|
Metadata Management Ability to manage data dictionaries and ensure context/lineage of datasets. |
Data dictionaries, tagging, and dataset management are core features, supporting metadata and lineage. | |
|
Automated Data Transformation Automated processes for adjusting or standardizing data before use in models. |
Automated data transformation available via Morningstar’s ETL tools and custom importing features. | |
|
Data Security & Access Controls Capabilities to restrict and monitor user access to sensitive or proprietary datasets. |
Role-based access and security, including encryption and audit logging, are available for user management. | |
|
Cloud Storage Compatibility Support for major cloud platforms for data storage and compute. |
Direct supports both cloud and on-premise deployment; cloud storage (Morningstar Cloud and integration with external providers) is supported. | |
|
Data Audit Trails Track and record changes and usage of datasets for compliance and transparency. |
Tracks changes and usage for compliance and transparency; data audit is a standard offering. | |
|
Automated Data Refresh Scheduling and automation of regular data updates from sources. |
Automated refresh for Morningstar's data feeds and scheduled updates for imported portfolios. |
Statistical & Quantitative Analysis
(7 Yes /7 Known /10 Possible features)
|
Descriptive Statistics Generate measures such as mean, median, standard deviation, skewness, and kurtosis across datasets. |
Descriptive statistics (mean, stdev, distribution) are provided in analytics modules. | |
|
Correlation Analysis Assess and visualize relationships between different variables or assets. |
Correlation heatmaps and analysis available for portfolio holdings and risk factors. | |
|
Regression Modeling Build and analyze linear and nonlinear regression models, including multi-factor models. |
Multiple regression and advanced modeling available in performance and factor analysis modules. | |
|
Time Series Analysis Conduct ARIMA, GARCH, and other time-series forecasting methods. |
Time series tools for returns, volatility, and other analyses (e.g., rolling returns); ARIMA/GARCH models supported indirectly through API integration. | |
|
Hypothesis Testing Built-in tools for t-tests, chi-square tests, ANOVA, and similar statistical tests. |
Hypothesis testing tools are part of statistical analytics. | |
|
Factor Analysis Evaluate and decompose financial returns by factors such as value, momentum, or size. |
Factor analysis, including value, momentum, size, style, is a key feature of Morningstar Direct. | |
|
Clustering & Classification Support for machine learning clustering/classification (e.g., k-means, decision trees). |
No information available | |
|
Principal Component Analysis (PCA) Dimensionality reduction and risk analysis via PCA. |
No information available | |
|
Monte Carlo Simulation Run Monte Carlo simulations for portfolio risk and scenario analysis. |
Monte Carlo simulation modules are available for portfolio and retirement scenarios. | |
|
Custom Statistical Scripting Support for integrating custom statistical scripts (Python, R, etc). |
No information available |
Econometric Modeling
(2 Yes /2 Known /10 Possible features)
|
Panel Data Analysis Support for econometric techniques using cross-sectional/time-series panel data. |
No information available | |
|
Cointegration Testing Check for long-term equilibrium relationships between asset prices. |
No information available | |
|
Error Correction Models (ECM) Implement and estimate ECMs to measure speed of adjustment to equilibrium. |
No information available | |
|
Instrumental Variables Estimation Handle endogeneity in regression via instrumental variable methods. |
No information available | |
|
Generalized Method of Moments (GMM) Implement and solve complex GMM models for efficiency. |
No information available | |
|
ARCH/GARCH Modeling Model time-varying volatility in financial series. |
No information available | |
|
Vector Autoregression (VAR) Multi-variable prediction and shock analysis. |
No information available | |
|
Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) Ability to estimate multiple and interrelated dependency relationships. |
No information available | |
|
Auto Model Specification Selection Automated selection of optimal statistical or econometric model structures. |
Model selection tools are available for portfolio optimization and scenario analysis. | |
|
Macroeconomic Scenario Generation Simulate macroeconomic environments for stress testing portfolios. |
Scenario generation for macroeconomic and stress testing is supported (e.g., interest rate shocks, recession scenarios). |
Portfolio Construction & Optimization
(9 Yes /9 Known /10 Possible features)
|
Mean-Variance Optimization Classical Markowitz portfolio optimization. |
Mean-variance optimization (Markowitz) is a core portfolio construction tool in Direct. | |
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Black-Litterman Model Support Support for running Black-Litterman blended optimization. |
No information available | |
|
Risk Budgeting Allocate capital based on asset/strategy risk contributions. |
Morningstar Direct offers risk budgeting and risk-based portfolio analysis. | |
|
Custom Constraint Handling Flexible constraint definitions for liquidity, sector, geography, and other rules. |
Flexible constraints on liquidity, sector, country, and other portfolio parameters are available. | |
|
Transaction Cost Modeling Estimate and incorporate transaction costs into optimization. |
Transaction cost estimation and modeling can be included in optimization analysis. | |
|
Tax-aware Optimization Include the impact of different tax treatments in portfolio decision making. |
Tax-aware portfolio analytics are available for US and other supported jurisdictions. | |
|
Scenario Analysis Analyze portfolio responses to hypothetical or user-defined scenarios. |
Scenario analysis for portfolios (shock, user-defined) is directly supported. | |
|
Backtesting Evaluate portfolio strategies against historical data to assess performance. |
Backtesting of strategies and portfolios is a major feature. | |
|
Multi-period Optimization Optimize portfolios through multiple rebalancing periods. |
Multi-period optimization supported for portfolio rebalancing over time. | |
|
ESG/Sustainability Integration Support for optimizing portfolios with ESG or sustainable investment constraints. |
Morningstar Direct features ESG integration and support for sustainable investment analytics. |
Risk Measurement & Management
(10 Yes /10 Known /10 Possible features)
|
Value at Risk (VaR) Calculation Calculate portfolio or asset VaR using various methods (historical, parametric, Monte Carlo). |
Value at Risk (VaR) is available in portfolio analytics modules. | |
|
Conditional VaR (CVaR) Support for tail risk calculations using CVaR. |
Conditional VaR (CVaR) calculation is available for portfolio tail risk assessment. | |
|
Stress Testing Test performance against extreme but plausible adverse market scenarios. |
Stress testing (scenario shocks, macro/market events) is a key feature. | |
|
Sensitivity Analysis Analyze the impact of changes in risk factors (e.g., interest rates, spreads). |
Sensitivity analysis tools for interest rates, spreads, and other variables are included. | |
|
Exposure Analysis Detailed views on exposures by asset class, region, sector, and risk factor. |
Exposure by region, sector, market, risk factor is detailed in holding and risk dashboards. | |
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Liquidity Risk Models Assess portfolio vulnerability to liquidity constraints. |
Liquidity risk analysis is included in the risk dashboard and portfolio construction tools. | |
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Factor Risk Decomposition Break down portfolio risk by systematic and idiosyncratic factors. |
Risk decomposition by systematic/idiosyncratic and factor exposure is included. | |
|
Automated Alerts Configurable risk alerts on breaches of thresholds or limits. |
Automated alerts (email, in-app) can be set for portfolio risk or compliance breaches. | |
|
Credit Risk Assessment Model and evaluate credit risk exposure within portfolios. |
Credit risk assessment includes bond, issuer, and sovereign risk tools. | |
|
Integrated Risk Dashboard Visual summary of all risk measurements for quick decision making. |
Unified risk dashboard centralizes exposure, scenario, and compliance views. |
Performance Measurement & Attribution
(10 Yes /10 Known /10 Possible features)
|
Time-weighted & Money-weighted Returns Generate both TWR and IRR-style returns for portfolios and benchmarks. |
Both time-weighted and money-weighted return analytics provided for portfolios and benchmarks. | |
|
Multi-level Performance Attribution Decompose contributions to return by asset, sector, region, or factor. |
Multi-level attribution by asset, region, security, and custom categories is core feature. | |
|
Custom Benchmark Comparison Measure performance relative to user-defined benchmarks. |
Custom benchmarks can be defined and used for performance measurement. | |
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Style Analysis Quantitatively analyze styles (growth/value, small/large-cap, etc.). |
Growth/value, small/large-cap, and other style analyses are core offerings. | |
|
Risk-adjusted Performance Metrics Automatically calculate Sharpe, Sortino, Information Ratio, Alpha, Beta, etc. |
Sharpe, Sortino, Information Ratio, Alpha, Beta, and other risk-adjusted metrics calculated automatically. | |
|
Attribution by Decision Layer Segment attribution to allocation, selection, timing, and interaction effects. |
Attribution by allocation vs. selection vs. timing is broken out in reports. | |
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Custom Time Period Analysis Flexible analysis periods (monthly, quarterly, YTD, custom date ranges). |
Analysis periods (monthly, quarterly, user-defined) are fully customizable. | |
|
Peer Group Comparison Analyze performance versus peer group portfolios or funds. |
Peer group performance comparison is supported through global fund universe and custom peer groups. | |
|
Return Decomposition Visualization Graphical breakdown of absolute and relative performance drivers. |
Graphical breakdown of returns (absolute, relative) is featured in reporting. | |
|
Attribution Report Generation Exportable reports with detailed attribution analyses. |
Attribution reports can be exported (PDF, PPT, XLS) for client presentations. |
Visualization & Reporting
(10 Yes /10 Known /10 Possible features)
|
Customizable Dashboards User-defined dashboards for quantitative analytics and monitoring. |
Dashboards are customizable for displaying analytics as needed by user role. | |
|
Interactive Charting Dynamic charts (line, bar, scatter, heatmap, etc.) allowing deep data exploration. |
Interactive charts allow exploration and zoom on time series, allocation, risk charts, and more. | |
|
Scenario & What-if Visualization On-the-fly graphical analysis of potential investment scenarios. |
Scenario and what-if analysis visualizations are supported in portfolio and risk modules. | |
|
Automated Report Scheduling Schedule regular, automated delivery of reports to stakeholders. |
Reports can be scheduled for regular automated delivery to users and clients. | |
|
Export Formats Support for exporting reports/visualizations in PDF, Excel, PowerPoint, HTML, image formats. |
Exports available in PDF, Excel, PowerPoint, HTML, image, CSV formats. | |
|
Custom Template Builder Branding and customization options for client-ready reports. |
Custom templates for reports to match client branding and content. | |
|
Annotation Tools Mark up charts and reports with comments and visual cues. |
Annotations can be added to charts and reports before exporting/sharing. | |
|
Drill-down Capabilities Detailed exploration from high-level dashboards to granular data points. |
Drill-down from dashboards to underlying positions/transactions is available. | |
|
Report Access Controls Permissions and restrictions for report viewers. |
Role-based access for reports and dashboards secures sensitive outputs. | |
|
Real-time Visualization Updates Automatic refresh of visuals with underlying data changes. |
Live dashboard updates when underlying portfolios/data change. |
Automation & Workflow
(8 Yes /8 Known /10 Possible features)
|
Workflow Orchestration Design, schedule and automate common quantitative analysis processes. |
Workflow orchestration for report creation, portfolio analytics, and scheduled processes. | |
|
Event-driven Triggers Ability to initiate tasks or rerun analyses based on market or data events. |
Event-driven tasks (e.g., analysis when portfolio uploaded) are possible via rules and API. | |
|
Batch Processing Support for high-volume batch analysis jobs. |
Batch analytics processes are available for multiple portfolios or universes. | |
|
Version Control Integration Integration with source control systems for managing code and model versions. |
No information available | |
|
Concurrent User Support Number of users who can access and operate the platform simultaneously. |
No information available | |
|
Collaboration Tools Features for discussion threads, shared documents and commentaries. |
Collaboration features include comments on portfolios, shared notes, and document storage. | |
|
Automated Notifications Alert users to workflow status, errors, or results. |
Automated notifications for workflow status, result availability, and errors. | |
|
Role-based Task Assignment Assign steps in analysis workflows to specific users or teams. |
Role-based workflow assignment available via platform user and group management. | |
|
API-based Task Automation Automate analysis tasks via API calls. |
APIs allow automation of analysis/reporting tasks via external triggers. | |
|
Audit Logging Comprehensive tracking of workflow executions. |
Audit trails and workflow execution logs are included for compliance. |
Integration & Extensibility
(8 Yes /8 Known /10 Possible features)
|
API Support Comprehensive APIs for importing/exporting data and calling analytical routines. |
Robust API support for importing/exporting data and integrating analytics. | |
|
Database Connectivity Native connectors for common relational, time-series, and NoSQL databases. |
Database connectors to common relational databases (SQL Server, Oracle) are available. | |
|
Programming Language Support Integration with languages such as Python, R, MATLAB, C++, etc. |
Programming language support is mainly for Excel, but also via API (REST) for Python and R integration. | |
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Plug-in/Extension Framework Support for 3rd-party and custom plug-ins to extend functionality. |
No information available | |
|
Cloud & On-premise Deployment Ability to deploy in cloud, on-site, or hybrid environments. |
Available via Morningstar’s SaaS platform (cloud) and select on-premise deployments for enterprise clients. | |
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Excel Integration Ability to read/write from Excel and embed live formula links. |
Excel integration is a key feature—data can be exported to and linked from Excel live. | |
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Single Sign-On (SSO) Authentication integration with enterprise identity providers. |
Single Sign-On (SSO) with SAML and enterprise identity providers is supported. | |
|
Mobile Access Mobile app or responsive web UI support. |
Mobile web access is available through responsive design; native apps for mobile exist for some features. | |
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Data Vendor Feeds Integration Direct links to Bloomberg, Refinitiv, FactSet, etc. |
Direct links to major vendors (Bloomberg, FactSet, etc.) are available for data feeds. | |
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Custom API Endpoints User-defined endpoints for integration with internal systems. |
No information available |
Speed, Scalability & Performance
(6 Yes /6 Known /10 Possible features)
|
Computation Speed Performance of core analytics and model calculations. |
No information available | |
|
Concurrent Model Runs How many parallel model runs the system can support. |
No information available | |
|
Real-time Analytics Support for real-time or near real-time processing and output. |
Real-time analytics dashboards update immediately when new data arrives. | |
|
Scalable Compute Architecture Ability to scale up/down resources as data/model size grows. |
Architecture is scalable both in the cloud and through enterprise deployments. | |
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Distributed Computing Leverage distributed frameworks to accelerate analysis. |
No information available | |
|
Load Balancing Automatically distribute analysis tasks for optimal performance. |
No information available | |
|
Resource Usage Monitoring Monitor and report system CPU, memory, and storage consumption. |
Usage monitoring and alerts for excessive resource use are part of admin tools. | |
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High-availability (HA) Support Built-in redundancy or failover to minimize downtime. |
HA and redundancy are stated features of the Direct SaaS (cloud) platform. | |
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Job Queue Management Efficiently manage and prioritize multiple analysis jobs. |
Job queue management is implemented for batch and multi-user environments. | |
|
Latency Metrics Dashboard Visual and numeric display of computational response times. |
Latency dashboards and audit logs are available to users and admins. |
Security & Compliance
(10 Yes /10 Known /10 Possible features)
|
Data Encryption (At Rest/In Transit) Protects sensitive data via encryption during storage and network transfer. |
Data encrypted both in transit (TLS/SSL) and at rest according to vendor documentation. | |
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User Authentication & Authorization Granular user permissions, authentication options, and MFA support. |
Supports granular user roles, authentication, and enterprise security—including MFA. | |
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Audit Trails & Logging Comprehensive event and access logging for auditing and compliance. |
Comprehensive audit/event logging is a compliance and security feature. | |
|
Regulatory Compliance Modules Support for MiFID II, AIFMD, SEC, GDPR, and other regulations. |
Regulatory compliance modules for GDPR, SEC, MiFID II, etc. are a standard feature for global clients. | |
|
Data Retention Policy Tools Automate and implement policies for data archiving and removal. |
Data retention management tools for compliance with varied regulations are available. | |
|
Vulnerability Management Regular updates for system vulnerabilities and compliance. |
Platform receives regular security updates and testing as a well-known vendor. | |
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Third-party Security Certifications SOC 2, ISO/IEC 27001, and other certifications. |
SOC 2 and other third-party security certifications held by Morningstar for Direct. | |
|
Secure API Gateways Ensure API connections are secure and monitored. |
APIs provided are secured and monitored according to industry standards. | |
|
User Activity Monitoring Real-time and historical monitoring of user activity for anomalies. |
User activity is logged and monitored for anomalies through admin tools. | |
|
Incident Response Procedures Documented protocols and in-system playbooks for responding to breaches. |
Incident response documentation and in-system protocols exist for Direct clients. |
Specialized Research Hardware for Investment Research & Analysis
High-performance computing systems and data storage solutions to support intensive data analysis, backtesting, and modeling activities required for sophisticated investment research.
More Specialized Research Hardware
More Investment Research & Analysis ...
Computational Performance
(0 Yes /0 Known /13 Possible features)
|
Processor Core Count Number of CPU cores available for computation. |
No information available | |
|
CPU Frequency Clock speed of central processing unit. |
No information available | |
|
GPU Support Availability of graphical processing units for parallel computing. |
No information available | |
|
Number of GPUs Total GPU units available for workload. |
No information available | |
|
AI/ML Accelerator Integration Hardware support for machine learning accelerators (e.g., TPUs, FPGAs). |
No information available | |
|
Floating Point Operations per Second (FLOPS) Hardware's capacity for high-speed mathematical calculations. |
No information available | |
|
RAM Capacity Total system memory available. |
No information available | |
|
RAM Speed Frequency at which memory operates. |
No information available | |
|
Simultaneous Multithreading Ability to handle parallel threads per core. |
No information available | |
|
Thermal Design Power (TDP) Maximum heat output to consider for cooling systems. |
No information available | |
|
Customizable Hardware Profiles Support for user-configurable hardware allocations. |
No information available | |
|
Fault Tolerance Mechanisms Hardware-level reliability to minimize interruptions. |
No information available | |
|
Upgradability Ease with which hardware components can be upgraded. |
No information available |
Data Storage & Management
(2 Yes /2 Known /13 Possible features)
|
Total Storage Capacity Maximum capacity for data storage. |
No information available | |
|
Storage Type Supported types such as HDD, SSD, NVMe. |
No information available | |
|
Read/Write Speed Speed at which data can be accessed or stored. |
No information available | |
|
RAID Support Ability to configure disk arrays for redundancy/performance. |
No information available | |
|
Hot Swappable Drives Ability to replace drives without shutting down. |
No information available | |
|
Data Encryption at Rest Built-in encryption capabilities for stored data. |
Morningstar Direct deals with sensitive investment and market data and is designed for institutional users, making data encryption at rest a likely (and expected) security feature. | |
|
Automated Backup Scheduling Set up automatic, regular data backups. |
Automated backup scheduling is typically a standard feature for SaaS-based investment analytics platforms such as Morningstar Direct, to prevent data loss for client portfolios and research. | |
|
Snapshot Capability Ability to capture point-in-time data images. |
No information available | |
|
Deduplication Reduces storage use by eliminating duplicate data. |
No information available | |
|
Compression Reduces data size for efficient storage. |
No information available | |
|
High Availability Cluster Storage Ensures continuous data access via failover mechanisms. |
No information available | |
|
Object Storage Compatibility Support for object-oriented storage system integration. |
No information available | |
|
Data Tiering Move old/less-used data to lower-cost storage automatically. |
No information available |
Connectivity & Data Ingestion
(6 Yes /6 Known /12 Possible features)
|
High-Speed Network Interfaces Supports fast Ethernet connectivity (10GbE/40GbE/etc). |
No information available | |
|
Multiple Network Interfaces Ability to install several NICs for redundancy & bandwidth. |
No information available | |
|
Cloud Integration Ability to connect and sync with public/hybrid cloud. |
Morningstar Direct advertises integration with cloud data sets and the ability to export/import to cloud and desktop tools; thus, cloud integration is supported. | |
|
API Compatibility Supports ingestion via open APIs (REST, FIX, etc). |
Morningstar Direct API and data feed documentation suggests API compatibility with standard data ingestion and distribution protocols for financial research use. | |
|
Direct Market Access (DMA) Feed Support Ability to receive high-frequency, real-time market data. |
No information available | |
|
Batch Data Import/Export Support for large volume data moves (csv, parquet, etc). |
Platform supports bulk upload/download and integration with desktop tools, indicating batch data import/export. | |
|
Streaming Data Support Capability to ingest and process live data feeds. |
Direct can process live feeds, including market and index data, so streaming data support is present. | |
|
Data Source Authentication Built-in mechanisms for secure access to data feeds. |
Requires authentication for all data retrieval functions, both via web and API, which covers data source authentication. | |
|
Data Format Flexibility Handles multiple data formats (JSON, XML, CSV, etc). |
Handles multiple data formats (e.g., Excel, CSV, APIs with JSON/XML, etc.), so data format flexibility is supported. | |
|
Latency Time delay between data generation and ingestion. |
No information available | |
|
Concurrent Connection Support Number of simultaneous data sources supported. |
No information available | |
|
Automatic Data Source Failover Switches to backup sources upon failure. |
No information available |
Analytics, Modeling & Backtesting
(6 Yes /6 Known /12 Possible features)
|
Backtesting Engine Integration Ability to interface with or contain backtesting platforms. |
Morningstar Direct allows users to integrate with analytical models, including some backtesting frameworks in portfolio analysis. | |
|
Simultaneous Model Execution Number of research models that can run in parallel. |
No information available | |
|
Supported Analytics Libraries Pre-installed scientific/financial libraries (e.g., NumPy, Pandas). |
Morningstar Direct includes quantitative/statistical libraries for financial and investment analytics (e.g., for return, risk, and performance). | |
|
Monte Carlo Simulation Capability Efficient support for running Monte Carlo analyses. |
No information available | |
|
Machine Learning Framework Compatibility Can run PyTorch, TensorFlow, or specialized frameworks. |
No information available | |
|
Custom Scripting Support Enables use of custom code/scripts (Python, R, etc). |
No information available | |
|
Model Training Throughput How fast the platform can process training cycles. |
No information available | |
|
Real-Time Analytics Capability Can perform live analytics with minimal lag. |
Platform provides real-time dashboards and analysis for portfolio and benchmark changes, showing real-time analytics capability. | |
|
Pre/Post Trade Analysis Modules Build-in tools for transaction analytics. |
Direct includes modules for pre- and post-trade analysis, performance attribution, and transaction-level analytics. | |
|
Scenario/Stress Testing Tools Allows exhaustive scenario analyses for risk testing. |
Morningstar Direct has scenario, risk, and stress testing tools for portfolios. | |
|
Transfer Learning Support Can leverage pre-trained models for faster research. |
No information available | |
|
Batch Processing Capability Ability to run large jobs in batch mode. |
Supports batch processing of portfolios and data sets for analytics. |
Security & Compliance
(7 Yes /7 Known /12 Possible features)
|
End-to-End Encryption All data flows are encrypted in transit and at rest. |
End-to-end encryption is customary for this type of financial SaaS. Morningstar Direct's security assurances reflect this. | |
|
Role-Based Access Control (RBAC) Grant permissions at very granular user and group levels. |
Access to all reporting, analytics, and portfolio modules is governed by user/group roles. | |
|
Multi-Factor Authentication Additional authentication layers for system access. |
Platform supports multi-factor authentication as part of its security for institutional clients. | |
|
Audit Logging Every action is logged for review and compliance. |
Extensive audit logging is required to meet demands of institutional customers and compliance. | |
|
Intrusion Detection/Prevention Monitors and blocks malicious activity automatically. |
No information available | |
|
Data Leak Prevention Mechanisms to block unauthorized data transfers. |
No information available | |
|
SOC 2/ISO 27001 Certification Adherence to major information security standards. |
Morningstar Inc. is ISO 27001 certified and widely claims security compliance for its data and analytics products. | |
|
Customizable Security Policies Organizations can tailor security requirements. |
No information available | |
|
Regulatory Compliance Alerting Notification of compliance breaches. |
No information available | |
|
Data Wiping & Secure Deletion Ensures deleted data is non-recoverable. |
No information available | |
|
Disaster Recovery Planning Systems, processes, and testing for rapid restoration. |
Disaster recovery and business continuity are standard for institutional data platforms like Direct. | |
|
Immutable Audit Trail Cannot alter historical audit records. |
Compliance modules and audit logging support immutable audit trails. |
Scalability & Flexibility
(8 Yes /8 Known /11 Possible features)
|
Horizontal Scaling Support Add more servers/nodes as research requirements grow. |
Cloud-based, multi-tenant SaaS solution for analytics can scale horizontally as customers and data volume grow. | |
|
Vertical Scaling Support Increase performance by upgrading resources in a node. |
SaaS architecture: Morningstar Direct can scale vertically as needed per customer account and analytics load. | |
|
On-Premises/Cloud Hybrid Support Can operate across premises and cloud seamlessly. |
Integration with cloud and on-prem data sources is supported, so hybrid environments are possible. | |
|
Resource Pooling Enables flexible allocation across research projects. |
Shared resource pooling across research/portfolio teams is supported in the Direct environment. | |
|
Automated Load Balancing Distributes computational workloads efficiently. |
Server load and job scheduling are balanced automatically within the platform. | |
|
Elastic Resource Scaling Automatically scales up/down as needed. |
Elastic scaling is a typical characteristic of Morningstar's cloud analytics infrastructure. | |
|
Multi-Tenancy Support Multiple groups or teams can use the hardware securely. |
Multi-tenancy supported for institutional clients with secure team/data separation. | |
|
API-Based Orchestration Programmatic management of compute and storage. |
Programmatic access to analytic and data functions via APIs indicates API-based orchestration. | |
|
Containerization Compatibility Supports Docker, Kubernetes, etc. for deployment. |
No information available | |
|
Custom User Environment Profiles Personalized hardware/software setups per researcher. |
No information available | |
|
Minimum Node Size Required Smallest possible hardware increment for expansion. |
No information available |
Usability & User Experience
(7 Yes /7 Known /11 Possible features)
|
Web-Based Management Console Graphical interface for hardware and job control. |
Web-based consoles with dashboard and system management are a core part of the product. | |
|
Command-Line Tools Powerful scripting and automation capabilities. |
Automation and scripting tools provided through user interfaces and downloads. | |
|
User Activity Monitoring See which researcher is using which resources. |
Administrators can monitor user activity for compliance and usage tracking. | |
|
Resource Usage Visualization Graphical monitoring of real-time performance. |
Resource usage visualization is built into dashboards and reporting modules. | |
|
Automated Scheduling Schedule jobs to run at specific times or after events. |
Automated scheduling for reports and data refreshes is frequently cited in Direct documentation. | |
|
Alerting & Notification System Configurable alerts for hardware, job, or security events. |
Notifications and alerts on jobs, data, and account security events are supported. | |
|
Multi-Language Support Supports multiple user interface languages. |
No information available | |
|
Self-Service Documentation Comprehensive, accessible user manuals and help. |
Comprehensive user manuals and knowledge base are core to SaaS solutions like Direct. | |
|
Role-Based Dashboard Configurability Custom views for different types of users. |
No information available | |
|
Wizard-Based Setup Guided, step-by-step installation and configuration. |
No information available | |
|
Integrated Troubleshooting Tools Automated troubleshooting and diagnostics. |
No information available |
Integration & Interoperability
(7 Yes /7 Known /10 Possible features)
|
APIs for Integration Library of APIs for seamless interoperability. |
Extensive API documentation for integration is available, meeting this requirement. | |
|
Plug-Ins and Extensions Modular system can be extended easily. |
Plug-ins and extensions are available for market data, portfolio functions, etc. | |
|
Standard Communication Protocols Supports FIX, REST, WebSockets, etc. |
Platform integrates with standard protocols like REST and Web APIs. | |
|
Custom Data Connector Support Create/adapt connectors to various databases/data sources. |
Custom connectors for different portfolio data sources can be developed or configured. | |
|
Integration with BI Tools Interoperability with Tableau, Power BI, etc. |
Direct offers direct integration with BI tools like Power BI and Tableau for reporting. | |
|
SFTP/FTP Access Secure file transfers to and from research environment. |
No information available | |
|
SDK Availability Software Development Kit for building integrations. |
No information available | |
|
Vendor-Agnostic Data Access Does not require proprietary formats for ingestion. |
No information available | |
|
Time-Series Data Integration Natively handles and integrates time-series feeds. |
Extensive time-series data support for portfolios, securities, and historical analysis. | |
|
Cross-Platform Compatibility Works on major OS (Linux, Windows, Mac). |
Web and desktop versions work cross-platform. |
Reliability & Availability
(2 Yes /2 Known /10 Possible features)
|
Redundant Power Supplies Multiple power circuits for continuous operation. |
No information available | |
|
Uninterruptable Power Supply (UPS) Battery backup for short-duration outages. |
No information available | |
|
High Availability Cluster Support Automated failover between hardware nodes. |
Automated failover between hardware nodes is supported by platform's cloud infrastructure. | |
|
Automated Backup and Restore Ensures data and state can be restored quickly. |
Automated backup and restore is present for client portfolios and research data. | |
|
Hardware Health Monitoring Detects possible failure before it occurs. |
No information available | |
|
Mean Time Between Failures (MTBF) Average operational time before failure. |
No information available | |
|
Automatic Job Restart Incomplete jobs can restart automatically after crash. |
No information available | |
|
Error Detection and Reporting Automated discovery and logging of errors. |
No information available | |
|
Hot Spare Nodes Idle nodes ready for rapid takeover on failure. |
No information available | |
|
Service Level Agreements (SLAs) Guaranteed uptime/service targets. |
No information available |
Support, Maintenance & Vendor Services
(6 Yes /6 Known /10 Possible features)
|
24/7 Hotline Support Can contact support staff at any time. |
24/7 customer support is available to institutional clients according to Morningstar Direct documentation. | |
|
Onsite Support Availability Technician dispatch to physical location. |
No information available | |
|
Proactive Hardware Monitoring Vendor monitors for preemptive fixes. |
No information available | |
|
Regular Software/Firmware Updates Timely delivery of system updates. |
Regular updates and system maintenance is documented as part of customer service. | |
|
Replacement Parts Logistics Availability and speed of replacement parts. |
No information available | |
|
Training and Onboarding Services Vendor support for onboarding and best practices. |
Onboarding, training, and best practices are offered as a part of platform support. | |
|
Detailed Knowledge Base Full documentation, FAQs, and troubleshooting guides. |
A robust knowledge base with FAQ and troubleshooting is part of Direct support. | |
|
Remote Diagnostics Issues can be diagnosed by vendor remotely. |
Remote diagnostics for issues and troubleshooting is available as a support option. | |
|
Custom Service Agreements Tailored SLAs to suit fund management needs. |
No information available | |
|
Migration Assistance Help with moving workloads or data. |
Migration assistance is provided by Morningstar for onboarding institutional clients. |
Cost Management & Efficiency
(4 Yes /4 Known /10 Possible features)
|
Total Cost of Ownership Tracking Visibility into cumulative system and maintenance cost. |
Total cost of ownership tracking is possible through billing analytics and customer account management. | |
|
Energy Efficiency Metrics Tracks power use and cost efficiency over time. |
No information available | |
|
Automated Power Management Automatically powers down unused resources. |
No information available | |
|
Usage-Based Billing Support Ability to apportion costs to business units/projects. |
Usage-based billing and cost allocation by project or business unit is supported for enterprise clients. | |
|
Resource Allocation Quotas Set limits to avoid uncontrolled use of hardware. |
Resource quotas and user controls are present for cloud resource management. | |
|
Detailed Usage Reporting Track resource and power consumption per job/user. |
Detailed usage reporting is integrated into the analytics dashboards. | |
|
License Management Tools Manages software/hardware license allocations. |
No information available | |
|
Predictive Maintenance Scheduling Minimizes downtime/cost by scheduling ahead. |
No information available | |
|
Financial API Integration Connects with accounting/ERP systems. |
No information available | |
|
Cloud Bursting Support Dynamically shift workloads to cloud during spikes. |
No information available |
Data Visualization Tools for Data Management
Applications that transform complex datasets into intuitive visual representations to facilitate analysis, pattern recognition, and communication of insights to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.
More Data Visualization Tools
More Data Management ...
Data Integration
(10 Yes /10 Known /11 Possible features)
|
Multiple Data Source Connectivity Connects to diverse data sources such as SQL databases, flat files, cloud storage, and APIs. |
Morningstar Direct connects to multiple data sources, including databases, files, and APIs for investments and fund data. | |
|
Automated Data Refresh Schedules and executes automated updates of datasets from their respective sources. |
Morningstar Direct enables scheduled and automated data updates from external sources and Morningstar’s own feeds. | |
|
Real-time Data Feed Support Supports live streaming or updates of data for up-to-the-minute visualization. |
Provides real-time data feed integrations for a range of financial and market data. | |
|
Custom Data Connectors Allows the creation or scripting of user-defined connectors for bespoke data sources. |
Supports creation and scripting of custom data connectors for proprietary or bespoke source integration. | |
|
Data Blending Capability to merge and manipulate data from multiple sources in a single view. |
Data blending is supported for combining different data sources in custom analytics and dashboards. | |
|
Data Mapping Facilitates schema mapping and field matching across different data structures. |
Schema mapping and field matching (data mapping) available, especially for portfolio holdings, benchmarks, and custom uploads. | |
|
Scheduled Data Imports Ability to schedule regular imports from chosen data sources at defined intervals. |
Users can schedule data imports from chosen sources at custom intervals. | |
|
Batch Data Processing Processes large volumes of data in batches for efficiency. |
Batch data processing used for large portfolio and universe uploads and calculations. | |
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Change Data Capture (CDC) Detects and synchronizes only data changes, enhancing efficiency in updating visualizations. |
No information available | |
|
API Integration Integrates directly with external APIs (e.g., Bloomberg, Reuters) to fetch up-to-date financial data. |
Direct integrations with numerous financial APIs, including Bloomberg and Reuters, are advertised. | |
|
Data Quality Checks Automated checking of imported data for completeness and format issues. |
Automated data quality checks are used, as described in product support and documentation. |
Usability & Accessibility
(11 Yes /11 Known /11 Possible features)
|
Drag-and-Drop Interface Enables users to create or modify visualizations without programming. |
Drag-and-drop interface is a core feature for dashboard and report creation. | |
|
Customizable Dashboards Users can tailor dashboards to their roles or preferences. |
Highly customizable dashboards are supported according to user roles/preferences. | |
|
Role-Based Access Control Allows defining different access rights for various users or groups. |
Role-based access control supported for enterprise clients as per product features and documentation. | |
|
Responsive Design Optimizes visualizations across devices, including mobile and web. |
Responsive interface is available, including for mobile and web use-cases. | |
|
Multi-language Support Supports users operating in different languages. |
Multi-language support available, per Morningstar’s international client base. | |
|
Keyboard Navigation Offers keyboard-based controls for improved accessibility. |
Keyboard navigation and accessibility features are noted in compliance documentation. | |
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Screen Reader Support Ensures compatibility with assistive technologies for visually impaired users. |
Screen reader support indicated for accessibility compliance (ADA, WCAG). | |
|
Pre-built Templates Provides ready-made templates for common visualization needs. |
Pre-built visualization templates provided for a variety of industry requirements. | |
|
Contextual Help & Tooltips In-app guidance and tooltips to assist users in using features. |
Contextual help and tooltips available throughout application UI. | |
|
User Customization Save Slots Stores and retrieves personalizations for future sessions. |
User customization save slots are provided so clients can save and retrieve personalizations. | |
|
Dark Mode Supports color schemes suitable for low-light environments. |
Dark mode or night mode is supported according to user interface options. |
Visualization Capabilities
(11 Yes /11 Known /11 Possible features)
|
Wide Range of Chart Types Supports charts like line, bar, pie, area, scatter, heatmap, treemap, and more. |
Platform supports a wide range of chart types, both standard and advanced. | |
|
Time Series Visualization Specialized tools for showing trends, seasonality, and anomalies in time-based data. |
Time series visualization is a key feature for financial data analysis. | |
|
Interactive Filters & Slicers Users can filter or slice data dynamically within visualizations. |
Interactive filters and slicers can be applied to dashboards and reports. | |
|
Drill-down and Drill-through Allows users to explore data by clicking through deeper levels of detail. |
Drill-down and drill-through are supported to explore deeper levels of holdings and exposure. | |
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Custom Chart Creation Ability to script or define new, user-specific chart types. |
Custom chart creation using scripting and configuration tools is supported. | |
|
Geospatial Maps Visualize geographic data with map overlays and customizable regions. |
Geospatial maps are available, including for fund and investment geographic breakdown. | |
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Conditional Formatting Dynamic styling of visual elements based on value thresholds. |
Conditional formatting is available in visualization and grid settings. | |
|
Annotation and Commenting Add notes or comments directly onto charts for context. |
Annotation and commenting directly on charts and tables is supported. | |
|
Storyboarding/Presentation Mode Tools to sequentially present visualizations as a narrative. |
Storyboarding/presentation mode is supported for sequential visualization presentation. | |
|
Hierarchical Visualizations Supports tree, sunburst, or network diagrams for hierarchical data. |
Hierarchical visualizations like sunburst and tree diagrams are available. | |
|
Dashboard Embedding Allows embedding dashboards in external applications or sites via iframe or API. |
Dashboards can be embedded in external portals via embed tools/APIs. |
Collaboration and Sharing
(10 Yes /10 Known /11 Possible features)
|
Real-time Collaboration Multiple users can work together on the same dashboard or report simultaneously. |
Real-time collaboration available for users with correct permissions. | |
|
Commenting & Discussion Threads Enables inline discussions and feedback on reported data or visuals. |
Inline commenting and discussion threads available in dashboards and reports. | |
|
Scheduled Sharing Automatically delivers reports or dashboards to designated recipients at set times. |
Scheduled sharing/distribution of reports and dashboards to users is supported. | |
|
One-click Export Export charts and dashboards to PDF, Excel, PPT, or image formats. |
Exports to PDF, PPT, Excel, PNG, and other formats available with one click. | |
|
Public Links Allows sharing of live dashboards with external stakeholders via secure URLs. |
Public and secure link sharing options are included for report sharing with external stakeholders. | |
|
Version History Track, review, and revert to earlier versions of dashboards or datasets. |
Version history supported for key data objects and dashboards. | |
|
Embedded Collaboration Tools Built-in chat, notifications, or tasks assigned within the platform. |
Embedded collaboration tools (chat, notifications) available in platform. | |
|
Access and Audit Logs Tracks user access and actions for security and compliance. |
Detailed access and audit logs available for compliance. | |
|
Approval Workflows Facilitates workflow for peer review and management sign-off. |
No information available | |
|
Annotation Sharing Annotations and markups can be shared and viewed by authorized users. |
Annotations and markups can be shared; included as part of collaborative features. | |
|
Integration with Collaboration Suites Integrates with platforms like Microsoft Teams, Slack, or Google Workspace. |
Integration with Microsoft Teams, Slack, and similar platforms is supported. |
Data Security and Compliance
(10 Yes /10 Known /11 Possible features)
|
Data Encryption at Rest and in Transit Encrypts stored and transmitted data to prevent unauthorized access. |
Data is encrypted at rest and in transit; highlighted in security documentation. | |
|
User Authentication (SSO, MFA) Supports Single Sign-On and Multi-Factor Authentication. |
Supports single sign-on (SSO) and multi-factor authentication (MFA). | |
|
Granular Permissions Access rights can be set at dataset, visualization, and user level. |
Granular permissions set at dataset, report, and user level. | |
|
Audit Trails Logs all access and changes made to data and dashboards. |
Audit trails/logging for regulatory and compliance purposes supported. | |
|
Data Masking Masks sensitive data fields as per user or group policies. |
Data masking available for sensitive data fields. | |
|
Compliance Certifications Certified for industry standards (e.g. SOC 2, GDPR, CCPA, ISO 27001). |
SOC 2, GDPR, and other compliance certifications highlighted in security and sales materials. | |
|
Data Residency Options Allows choice of data center location to meet jurisdictional requirements. |
Data residency/location selection documented for large/global clients. | |
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Automated Data Retention Policies Automates purging or archiving as per legal or regulatory schedules. |
Automated data retention and purging documented for regulatory compliance. | |
|
Secure API Access APIs require secure tokens/keys for integration. |
API access is secured via tokens/keys, per developer documentation. | |
|
Intrusion Detection Monitors for and alerts on suspicious activity. |
No information available | |
|
Secure Sharing Controls Share controls include expiration, password protection, and access revocation. |
Sharing includes expiration, password, and revocation controls. |
Performance and Scalability
(8 Yes /8 Known /11 Possible features)
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Concurrent User Support Maximum number of users that can use the platform simultaneously without degradation. |
No information available | |
|
Dashboard Load Time Time taken to fully load a complex dashboard. |
No information available | |
|
Maximum Data Volume Handled The upper limit of data (rows, size) that can be managed effectively. |
No information available | |
|
Horizontal Scalability Capability to add more servers or resources to accommodate demand. |
Horizontal scalability supported via cloud and hybrid deployment models. | |
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In-memory Processing Uses RAM for faster data queries and visualization updates. |
In-memory processing available for analytics acceleration. | |
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Caching Mechanism Stores frequently accessed data for rapid visualization reloading. |
Caching employed for frequently accessed dashboards and data. | |
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Optimized Query Execution Efficient algorithms for minimizing data retrieval and rendering times. |
Optimized query engine forms part of analytics stack. | |
|
Asynchronous Data Processing Processes large calculations or queries in background threads. |
Asynchronous processing available, especially for large or long-running analytics jobs. | |
|
Failover and Redundancy Automatic recovery and backup mechanisms in case of interruptions. |
Failover and redundancy supported for enterprise deployments. | |
|
Elastic Resource Allocation Dynamically assigns resources based on load. |
Elastic resources (scaling based on user load) offered in SaaS/cloud versions. | |
|
Performance Monitoring Tools Monitors and visualizes system performance to detect bottlenecks. |
Built-in performance monitoring and diagnostic tools included. |
Advanced Analytics Support
(11 Yes /11 Known /11 Possible features)
|
Built-in Statistical Functions Offers statistical metrics (mean, median, standard deviation, etc.) as part of visualization. |
Statistical analysis tools (e.g., mean, volatility, Sharpe ratio) are built-in. | |
|
Integration with Analytical Libraries Connects with Python, R, or other statistical/ML libraries. |
Integration with Python and R is supported for advanced analytics. | |
|
Scenario Analysis Tools Supports ‘what-if’ and scenario modeling directly in dashboards. |
Scenario and what-if analysis tools provided within portfolio analytics. | |
|
Forecasting Models Supports ARIMA, exponential smoothing, or similar time series modeling. |
Forecasting capabilities (time series, risk, and return projections) present in analysis modules. | |
|
Custom Formula Editor Allows users to define custom calculations using formulas or code. |
Custom formula and calculation editors available in the reporting/analytics suite. | |
|
Regression Analysis Supports building and visualizing regression models. |
Regression analysis supported in performance and risk analytics. | |
|
Correlation Analysis Identify and visualize relationships between variables. |
Correlation analysis provided for performance and risk relationships. | |
|
Anomaly Detection Built-in tools to flag and visualize outlier data points. |
Anomaly detection for outlier performance and data validation provided. | |
|
Clustering Visualization Supports visualization of clusters or segmentations within fund portfolios. |
Clustering and segmentation tools available for funds and portfolios. | |
|
Natural Language Query Enables users to ask questions in plain English and get visual answers. |
Natural language query support recently introduced for analytics. | |
|
Back-testing Framework Tools to run and visualize back-tests of investment strategies. |
Back-testing frameworks included for strategy analysis and presentation. |
Customization and Extensibility
(11 Yes /11 Known /11 Possible features)
|
Custom Branding Allows platforms and dashboards to be rebranded with client logos and colors. |
Custom branding of client environments and reports is supported. | |
|
Plugin and Extension Marketplace Access to a library of add-ons for new features and integrations. |
Platform marketplace and add-ons for additional features and integrations. | |
|
Scripting Support Custom scripts (JavaScript, Python, etc.) for creating tailored functionality. |
Scripting capabilities (Python, etc.) supported for extensibility. | |
|
API for Programmatic Access RESTful or other APIs for automating or customizing workflows. |
APIs support programmatic data access and workflow customization. | |
|
Custom Visual Component Creation Users/developers can build and add their own chart types. |
SDK/platform capability for custom visual component creation available. | |
|
Data Transformation Pipelines Extensible ETL (Extract-Transform-Load) processes for bespoke needs. |
Custom data transformation pipelines allowed with ETL functions. | |
|
Custom Alerting Rules Define alerts and notifications based on complex user-defined logic. |
Custom alerting based on user-defined logic supported, e.g. risk limits. | |
|
Multi-tenancy Support Supports creation of segregated environments for different clients or business units. |
Multi-tenancy supported—used by global asset managers with separate environments. | |
|
Localization and Internationalization Supports translation and adaptation to local conventions. |
Localization and internationalization well-supported for global markets. | |
|
White-label Embedding Embed visualizations in 3rd-party portals without vendor branding. |
White-label embedding of visualizations in client portals available. | |
|
Workflow Automation Support Trigger actions or workflows from visual transactions or events. |
Workflow automation and report scheduling supported via actions and rules. |
Data Preparation and Transformation
(11 Yes /11 Known /11 Possible features)
|
Data Cleansing Tools Identify and correct errors, fill blanks, and standardize formats. |
Data cleansing tools included in data preparation modules. | |
|
Data Aggregation Easily group and summarize data at various levels. |
Data aggregation functions supplied throughout analytics suite. | |
|
Calculated Fields Create new fields based on custom equations or logic. |
Calculated fields available for custom analytics. | |
|
Time-series Data Handling Recognizes and handles time-based records efficiently. |
Platform efficiently handles time-series data for financial instruments. | |
|
Data Normalization Standardizes disparate values for improved comparison. |
Data normalization supported in data prep and upload workflows. | |
|
Pivot and Unpivot Tools Transforms data orientation for various analysis requirements. |
Pivot/unpivot tools available for data processing. | |
|
Hierarchy Building Create parent-child relationships between data elements. |
Hierarchy building (fund of funds, sector/industry classification) supported. | |
|
Data Sampling Take representative samples for performance and testing. |
Sampling tools provided in certain analytics workflows. | |
|
Automated Join Detection Recommends potential joins between tables based on schema analysis. |
Automated join detection included in data mapping functions. | |
|
Transformation Script Library Reusable pre-defined scripts for frequent transformations. |
Reusable transformation scripts provided in platform toolkit. | |
|
Reproducible Data Pipelines Design and execute repeatable data transformation flows. |
Reproducible data pipelines supported for repeatable processes. |
Reporting & Distribution
(10 Yes /10 Known /11 Possible features)
|
Automated Report Scheduling Schedule reports to be generated and delivered automatically. |
Automated report scheduling is available. | |
|
Report Customization Modify the layout, branding, and content of generated reports. |
Supports report customization of layout, content, and branding. | |
|
Multi-format Exports Supports exporting to multiple formats like PDF, Excel, CSV, PPT. |
Reports can be exported in various formats, including PDF, Excel, CSV, PPT. | |
|
Parameterized Reports Allows users to input parameters and receive tailored reports. |
Parameterized reports (input custom date, peer group, etc.) available. | |
|
Bursting Distributes personalized sections of a report to corresponding recipients. |
Bursting supported: personalized reports for different recipients. | |
|
Interactive Reporting Reports support drill-down, filtering, and dynamic exploration after distribution. |
Interactive reporting (drill-down, filters) enabled even after scheduling. | |
|
Compliance-friendly Report Archiving Archived reports conform to industry retention and audit requirements. |
Report archiving meets industry compliance requirements. | |
|
Extensive Visualization Export Exports entire dashboards or specific visualizations with retaining interactivity (HTML, SVG). |
Exports can retain interactivity (HTML, SVG) for dashboards. | |
|
On-demand Report Generation Authorized users can create reports instantly as needed. |
Authorized users can generate reports on-demand. | |
|
Distributed Notification Integration Automatically notifies recipients via email, SMS, or messaging apps when new reports are available. |
Notifications by email (and optionally other channels) when reports are available. | |
|
Report Scheduling Conflict Resolution Automated handling of overlapping report generation and distribution schedules. |
No information available |
Support, Documentation, and Community
(11 Yes /11 Known /11 Possible features)
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Comprehensive Documentation Complete user and developer guides, API references, and release notes. |
Comprehensive user/developer guides, API docs, and release notes available. | |
|
In-app Tutorials Step-by-step tutorials available within the platform. |
In-app tutorials and contextual help provided for onboarding. | |
|
24/7 Support Round-the-clock technical support for global teams. |
24/7 support included as part of enterprise/dedicated subscriptions. | |
|
Active User Community Access to a vibrant ecosystem of users for advice and resource sharing. |
Active worldwide user community with user forums and webinars. | |
|
Professional Training Formal training sessions, webinars, or certifications for users and admins. |
Professional training and certification available from Morningstar. | |
|
Knowledge Base/FAQs Repository of frequently asked questions and best practices. |
Comprehensive knowledge base and FAQ repository accessible online. | |
|
Custom Support Packages Tiered or bespoke support offerings depending on organization needs. |
Custom/tiered support packages available for clients. | |
|
Regular Feature Updates Consistent new feature rollouts and maintenance updates. |
Regular feature releases and maintenance updates highlighted on product site. | |
|
Bug Tracking and Feedback Mechanisms Channels for submitting bugs, feature requests, and getting status updates. |
Bug tracking and feedback submission forms are available for users. | |
|
Multi-channel Support Access Reach help via chat, phone, email, and ticketing systems. |
Support accessible via web, chat, phone, and email. | |
|
Service Level Agreements (SLAs) Defined response and resolution times for support issues. |
Service Level Agreements referenced in client support documentation. |
Fee Analysis & Modeling Tools for Product Development & Management
Software for analyzing competitive fee structures, modeling revenue scenarios, and determining optimal pricing strategies for investment products across different distribution channels and client segments.
More Fee Analysis & Modeling Tools
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Data Integration & Import
(8 Yes /8 Known /10 Possible features)
|
Multi-source Data Import Ability to import data from spreadsheets, databases, APIs, and third-party data providers. |
Morningstar Direct supports import of data from multiple sources including spreadsheets, databases, third-party providers (Morningstar DB, FactSet, Bloomberg), and APIs per product documentation and user reviews. | |
|
Automated Data Refresh Automatic periodic updates from defined sources to ensure data freshness. |
Morningstar Direct enables scheduled updates and automatic data refresh with defined update intervals for its data sources. | |
|
Data Mapping Tools Configurable mapping of imported data fields to internal data models. |
Morningstar Direct provides mapping capabilities to align imported data with internal models (e.g., portfolio holdings, security attributes). | |
|
Data Validation & Cleansing Automatic detection and correction of data inconsistencies or missing values. |
Morningstar Direct can perform data validation, flag inconsistencies, and facilitate cleansing through its import workflows. | |
|
Version Control for Data Ability to track and reference historical data sets for audit and analysis. |
Historical data management allows users to access and audit previous datasets, supporting version control. | |
|
Bulk Upload Speed Average speed of bulk data import and processing. |
No information available | |
|
Supported File Formats Number and type of supported file formats for import/export (e.g., CSV, Excel, XML, JSON). |
No information available | |
|
API Integration Out-of-the-box connectors or API support for data exchange. |
Robust API support is available, including out-of-the-box connectors and a RESTful API for integration. | |
|
Data Audit Trail Complete record of data uploads, changes, and associated users. |
System maintains a complete audit trail of uploaded data, changes, and user access per compliance feature guide. | |
|
Error Reporting Dashboard Visibility into failed imports and integration errors. |
Error reporting dashboards and import failure tracking are standard with data imports and integrations. |
Competitive Fee Benchmarking
(8 Yes /8 Known /10 Possible features)
|
Peer Group Comparison Comparison of product fees against selected peer groups or industry averages. |
Direct offers benchmarking versus peer groups/industry averages for product fees and costs. | |
|
Custom Benchmark Creation Flexibility to define custom benchmarks for more granular comparison. |
Users can define custom peer groups and benchmarking parameters as part of competitive analysis features. | |
|
Dynamic Benchmark Updates Automated benchmark updates based on current market data. |
Benchmark data is updated dynamically based on latest market and Morningstar data. | |
|
Fee Structure Visualization Graphs and visual breakdowns of competitive fee structures. |
Direct provides visual fee breakdowns, charts, and graphs for competitive comparisons. | |
|
Historical Fee Trend Analysis Tracking and visualization of changes in competitor fee structures over time. |
Historical trend analysis of fee structures is available with visualization tools. | |
|
Market Coverage (Peer Universe) Number of peer products or managers included for benchmarking. |
No information available | |
|
Drilldown by Channel or Segment Ability to filter benchmarking by distribution channel or client segment. |
Filters enable drilldown of benchmarks by distribution channel and segment. | |
|
Customizable Peer Lists User-defined peer selection using filters and attributes. |
Users can build customizable peer lists with attribute filters. | |
|
Fee Type Support Different fee types supported for benchmarking (e.g., management, performance, admin., etc.). |
No information available | |
|
Exportable Benchmark Reports Benchmark data, charts, and reports can be exported for sharing or analysis. |
Benchmark and report data can be exported in standard formats (Excel, PDF, CSV). |
Revenue Modeling & Scenario Analysis
(8 Yes /8 Known /10 Possible features)
|
Scenario Builder Interactive tool to create and compare multiple revenue scenarios with different fee structures and product assumptions. |
What-if and scenario modeling is supported, with scenario comparison features available for pricing analysis. | |
|
Fee Sensitivity Analysis Assessment of revenue impact based on changes in fee rates or structures. |
Fee sensitivity tables and analyses are available, showing projected revenue impact from fee changes. | |
|
Product Segmentation Segregation of modeling by product type, distribution channel, or client segment. |
Segmentation and modeling analysis can be grouped by product, channel, or client segment. | |
|
Historical Revenue Backtesting Ability to backtest revenue models using historical AUM and client data. |
Backtesting using historical data is supported in the scenario analysis and revenue modeling modules. | |
|
Multi-Currency Support Support for revenue modeling in different currencies. |
Revenue modeling tools support multiple currencies; Morningstar Direct is a global platform. | |
|
Fee Waterfall Modelling Detailed modeling of fee split across management, distribution, and sub-advisory layers. |
Fee waterfalls are supported in detailed fee breakdown reporting per platform user guides. | |
|
Model Complexity Maximum number of model parameters and variables supported. |
No information available | |
|
Batch Processing Speed Time taken to run large scenario batches or complex revenue models. |
No information available | |
|
Graphical Output Visualizations such as revenue projections, sensitivity charts, and scenario comparisons. |
Graphical outputs and interactive visualizations for scenario analysis are emphasized in product documentation. | |
|
Report Export Ability to export scenario results as PDF, Excel, or image files. |
Scenario results and reports are exportable in PDF, Excel, and image formats. |
Client & Channel Segmentation
(7 Yes /7 Known /10 Possible features)
|
Segmentation Rules Editor Interface for creating and managing segmentation rules based on client, geography, product, or assets. |
Rules-based segmentation is available through client/product/channel rules editors. | |
|
Multi-level Hierarchies Support for nested segmentations (e.g., channel --> geography --> client type). |
No information available | |
|
Dynamic Segmentation Updates Automated updates when client/channel attributes change. |
No information available | |
|
Segment-specific Fee Structures Ability to assign and analyze different fee structures per segment. |
Fee structure assignment and analysis by client/channel segment is supported. | |
|
Cross-segment Comparison Comparison of performance and margins across different segments. |
Cross-segment analysis and comparison are featured throughout reporting dashboards. | |
|
Number of Supported Segments How many unique client or channel segments can be handled concurrently. |
No information available | |
|
Granular Segment Filters Query building for fine-tuned segmentation and analysis. |
Advanced filtering and segmentation are available in the analytics interface. | |
|
Segment Performance Dashboards Dashboards showing key metrics for each segment. |
Dashboards for segment-based performance and KPIs are available. | |
|
Customizable Segment Attributes User management of segment-defining attributes (e.g., client size, geography, product type). |
Segment attributes (client size, region, product type) can be customized by users. | |
|
Segment Data Export Ability to export segmentation results as structured data files. |
Export of segmentation data/results is supported in Excel and CSV formats. |
Pricing Strategy & Optimization
(6 Yes /6 Known /10 Possible features)
|
Automated Pricing Recommendations Algorithmic suggestions based on market position, peer data, and revenue targets. |
No information available | |
|
Price Elasticity Modeling Assess impact of fee changes on expected sales or AUM. |
No information available | |
|
Fee Structure Complexity Maximum supported fee structure layers (tiered, breakpoints, flat fees, etc.). |
No information available | |
|
Integrated Approvals Workflow Approval processes for new or changed fee structures. |
Morningstar Direct supports workflow management and approvals for new/changed fee structures. | |
|
Margin Optimization Tools Tools for maximizing profit margin while remaining competitive. |
Margin/profitability analysis tools are included for pricing and product teams. | |
|
Dynamic Pricing Simulation Live simulation of pricing changes and their projected effects. |
What-if and live simulation functions provide dynamic pricing effects and simulation. | |
|
Custom Pricing Rules Engine User-configurable rules to guide automated or manual pricing suggestions. |
No information available | |
|
What-if Analysis Support for complex scenario planning with side-by-side comparison. |
Scenario planning with side-by-side, what-if comparative interface is supported. | |
|
Integration with CRM/Product Platforms Ability to link pricing models directly to sales and product management platforms. |
Integration features/connectors for Salesforce and select product management platforms are available. | |
|
Fee Implementation Audit Trail Log of pricing changes, approvers, and rationale. |
Audit logs for fee/pricing changes including time, user, and rationale are available. |
Reporting & Visualization
(8 Yes /8 Known /10 Possible features)
|
Custom Report Builder User-configurable reports combining data from multiple sources and analyses. |
Report builder is configurable, enabling joining data across modules, custom metrics, and user-defined output. | |
|
Scheduled Report Delivery Automated, periodic delivery of key reports to stakeholders. |
Scheduled report generation and automated delivery to email or shared folder is supported. | |
|
Interactive Data Visualizations Charts, graphs, and dashboards with drill-down capabilities for deeper analysis. |
Interactive dashboards and data viz with drill-down and dynamic filtering are part of core reporting tools. | |
|
White-label Branding Reports and dashboards with customizable branding for internal or client use. |
Direct supports custom branding/white-label of exported PDF and online dashboards for clients. | |
|
Export Formats Supported Range of formats (PDF, Excel, PPT, HTML, etc.) supported for report export. |
No information available | |
|
Real-time Reporting Speed Average latency to generate dashboards and ad hoc reports. |
No information available | |
|
Mobile-friendly Dashboards Support for accessing reports and dashboards on mobile devices. |
Dashboards and reporting modules support access on mobile and tablet devices. | |
|
Report Scheduling Flexibility Ability to set schedules by frequency, audience, and format. |
Flexible scheduling by frequency/audience/format is available for report delivery. | |
|
Role-based Report Access Control over who can view, edit, or share each report. |
Role-based access is enforced on dashboard and reporting modules. | |
|
Data Annotations & Commentary Inline notes, highlights, and discussions within reports and dashboards. |
Annotation, comments, and commentary features are provided on reports and dashboards. |
Security, Compliance & Audit
(6 Yes /6 Known /10 Possible features)
|
Role-based Access Controls Granular permissions for system modules and data sets. |
Role-based access controls available for all modules and data sets. | |
|
Data Encryption Encryption of data at rest and in transit. |
Data is encrypted at rest and in transit. This is standard for institutional-grade SaaS. | |
|
Compliance Modules Automated checks for compliance with regulatory standards (e.g., MiFID, SEC). |
Product provides compliance modules for regulatory standards including MiFID and SEC requirements. | |
|
Detailed Audit Logs Comprehensive tracking of all user and system activity. |
Detailed logs on user/system activity for compliance/audit, as required for institutional finance. | |
|
Two-factor Authentication Requirement for 2FA to access sensitive features. |
Two-factor authentication is offered as a standard security measure. | |
|
Data Retention Policy Enforcement Automated enforcement of data retention and deletion policies. |
No information available | |
|
Intrusion Detection Integration Support for connecting with enterprise security/intrusion monitoring systems. |
No information available | |
|
Consent Management Tracking, storing, and enforcing user and client data consents. |
No information available | |
|
Privacy Settings Granularity Levels of privacy setting granularity for user and organizational data. |
No information available | |
|
Regular Security Patch Updates Periodic and automated updates for security vulnerabilities. |
Product receives regular, automated security patches as typical for cloud investments platforms. |
User Experience & Collaboration
(8 Yes /8 Known /10 Possible features)
|
Intuitive Interface Modern, easy-to-navigate interface for all user roles. |
Modern UX/UI, with positive user feedback for navigation and design. | |
|
Notification & Alert System Automated alerts and reminders for data changes, approvals, and analysis deadlines. |
Notification and alerting system included for data, analysis, deadlines, and changes. | |
|
Multi-user Collaboration Simultaneous access and editing by multiple users with real-time syncing. |
Direct allows real-time collaboration between multiple users with syncing. Platform supports large teams. | |
|
Change Tracking & Comments Ability to track, comment, and discuss changes directly in the platform. |
Change tracking, comments, and discussion are part of multi-user workflow features. | |
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Role-based Views & Dashboards Custom interfaces tailored to specific user types or departments. |
Role-specific dashboards and custom module access setup per user/role/department. | |
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User Training Resources Integrated tutorials, guides, and contextual help. |
Tutorials, contextual help, and user support resources are available in-app and online. | |
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Accessibility Compliance Conformance with accessibility standards (e.g., WCAG 2.1). |
No information available | |
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Mobile App/Responsive Design Support for smartphone/tablet access and mobile-optimized UIs. |
Responsive web design with mobile and tablet layouts, as well as a mobile dedicated app. | |
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Self-service Customization User ability to customize dashboards, reports, and notification preferences. |
Users can configure and personalize report layouts, dashboard elements, and notifications. | |
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Multilingual Support Availability of the user interface in multiple languages. |
No information available |
Integration & APIs
(5 Yes /5 Known /10 Possible features)
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Open API Documentation Comprehensive and accessible API documentation for developers. |
Morningstar Developer Portal provides comprehensive, public API documentation. | |
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Pre-built Connectors Ready-made integrations with leading industry systems (e.g., Salesforce, Bloomberg). |
Pre-built connectors to Salesforce, Bloomberg, and major platforms are available for integration. | |
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Custom Webhooks Support Outbound webhooks for triggering downstream processes in real time. |
No information available | |
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Single Sign-On (SSO) Integration with enterprise SSO standards for easy authentication. |
SSO integrations for enterprise clients (Okta, Azure AD) are available. | |
|
API Throughput Requests/second supported for external application calls. |
No information available | |
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Data Export API Support for programmatic export of analytical data. |
APIs for exporting analytical/report data are available. | |
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Inbound Data Sync API API endpoint(s) for automated data ingestion from external systems. |
APIs are provided for inbound data sync from external/3rd-party systems. | |
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Event-based Integration Support for real-time event streams for updates and notifications. |
No information available | |
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Integration Testing Sandbox Environment for testing API integrations safely and at scale. |
No information available | |
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Extensible Plugin Framework Ability to add or develop plugins or custom modules on top of the core system. |
No information available |
Maintenance, Support & Scalability
(4 Yes /4 Known /10 Possible features)
|
Uptime Guarantee Service Level Agreement percentage for application uptime. |
No information available | |
|
Scalable Infrastructure Elastic infrastructure to handle growing users, data, and analysis loads. |
Morningstar Direct uses cloud infrastructure (AWS), provides elastic scaling, and supports growth in data/users. | |
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24/7 Support Availability Round-the-clock support through multiple channels. |
24/7 support via phone, email, and online portal as per product support agreement. | |
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Software Update Frequency Average frequency of feature and security updates. |
No information available | |
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Disaster Recovery RPO/RTO Guaranteed recovery point/time objectives for disaster recovery. |
No information available | |
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Performance Monitoring Tools Built-in monitoring and alerting for system performance metrics. |
Monitoring tools for latency, uptime, and user activity are provided. | |
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Self-service Diagnostics Tools for end users to diagnose and report system issues. |
No information available | |
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User Management Scalability Maximum number of users supported concurrently. |
No information available | |
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Data Storage Scalability Capacity for growth in managed and analyzed data. |
No information available | |
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Multi-tenant Architecture Support for isolated environments for different teams or clients within the platform. |
Morningstar Direct can be configured for multiple tenants/accounts (e.g., asset managers supporting different client teams) according to enterprise deployment guides. |
Product Performance Analytics for Product Development & Management
Applications that track and analyze product performance relative to benchmarks, peer groups, and objectives to support product management decisions and marketing positioning.
More Product Performance Analytics
More Product Development & Management ...
Data Integration & Coverage
(9 Yes /9 Known /11 Possible features)
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Multi-source Data Integration Ability to pull data from diverse sources (internal systems, third-party vendors, market feeds, etc.). |
Morningstar Direct integrates a wide range of internal and external data sources, including global securities, indexes, managed investments, and market data as stated on their product site. | |
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Benchmarks Database Access Availability of a broad library of industry standard and custom benchmarks. |
Morningstar Direct offers access to a broad library of industry benchmarks, including standard and custom benchmarks across markets. | |
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Peer Group Data Availability Access to robust peer group datasets for comparative analytics. |
Peer group analysis and comparison is a primary Morningstar Direct function, providing robust peer datasets for comparative analytics. | |
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Auto Data Refresh Frequency How often the system refreshes underlying datasets automatically. |
No information available | |
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Data Quality Checks Integrated rules and processes for ensuring completeness, accuracy, and consistency of data. |
Morningstar is known for data quality checks and standardized methodologies to ensure completeness, accuracy, and consistency. | |
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Historical Data Depth The maximum lookback period for analysis. |
No information available | |
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Support for Custom Universes Ability to define and analyze custom groups for peer comparisons. |
Users can define custom peer groups and analytically compare against custom universes in Morningstar Direct. | |
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Currency Conversion Support Automatic data normalization across different base currencies. |
Morningstar Direct supports multi-currency analytics and automatic currency conversion for global portfolios. | |
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Data Export Options Formats and mechanisms provided for exporting underlying datasets. |
Data in Morningstar Direct can be exported in multiple formats including CSV, Excel, PDF, etc. | |
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API Availability Ability to access and integrate data via application programming interfaces. |
Morningstar Direct offers APIs for data access and integration with other systems. | |
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Support for Alternative Data Types Ability to handle non-traditional or alternative data (e.g., ESG, sentiment). |
Alternative datasets, like ESG and sentiment data, are available in product modules. |
Performance Calculation Engine
(10 Yes /10 Known /11 Possible features)
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Daily Performance Computation System can calculate and update returns and other metrics daily. |
Morningstar Direct updates performance and other metrics on a daily basis for most instruments. | |
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IRR/XIRR Support Internal Rate of Return and Extended Internal Rate of Return calculations available. |
Supports calculation and display of IRR and XIRR across investment products. | |
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Risk-adjusted Metrics Ability to generate Sharpe ratio, Sortino, Information Ratio, and similar statistics. |
Risk-adjusted measures such as Sharpe Ratio, Sortino, Information Ratio, etc. are included in analytics. | |
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Alpha/Beta Computation System computes alpha and beta relative to chosen benchmarks. |
Alpha and beta computations are standard features, relative to user-selected or default benchmarks. | |
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Attribution Analysis Supports decomposition of performance by factors, sector, region, etc. |
Performance Attribution modules support decomposition by factor, sector, or region. | |
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Time-weighted vs. Money-weighted Returns Ability to toggle and report both types of returns. |
Both Money-weighted and Time-weighted returns can be toggled in analytics and reporting. | |
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Rolling Period Analytics Run analytics over customizable rolling windows. |
Rolling period analytics are supported, allowing customizable rolling windows for metric calculations. | |
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Out/Underperformance Calculation System calculates performance relative to benchmarks. |
Out/Underperformance is calculated and displayed relative to selected benchmarks. | |
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Peer Percentile Rankings System ranks products against peer universes over multiple periods. |
Peer percentile rankings are displayed in fund and product comparison dashboards. | |
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Custom Formula Support Users can create and run custom calculation formulas. |
Morningstar Direct allows users to create and save custom calculation formulas. | |
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Computation Speed Average time to compute and display results for a portfolio. |
No information available |
Benchmark & Peer Group Management
(7 Yes /7 Known /10 Possible features)
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Custom Benchmark Construction Ability to blend indices or instruments to create bespoke benchmarks. |
Users can build and manage custom benchmarks from indices, funds, or market data sources. | |
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Dynamic Benchmark Rebalancing Benchmarks can be rebalanced automatically or on-demand. |
Benchmarks can be rebalanced and adjusted automatically or on demand in the platform. | |
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Peer Group Customization Users can define and maintain custom peer groups. |
Peer groups can be customized, defined, and managed by users in Direct. | |
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Automated Benchmark Updates System updates benchmark constituents and weights automatically. |
Constituents and weights for benchmarks are updated automatically according to index methodologies. | |
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Fee-adjusted Peer Comparison Peer performance can be computed net of fees. |
Peer comparisons can be run net of fees and expenses. | |
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Multi-benchmark Analysis System supports comparing products against multiple benchmarks in parallel. |
Multiple benchmarks can be analyzed simultaneously against a product/portfolio. | |
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Benchmark Data Granularity Frequency of available benchmark data (e.g. daily, monthly, quarterly). |
No information available | |
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Peer Universe Size Number of peers available for comparison within the system. |
No information available | |
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Peer Group Data Provider Coverage Number of supported peer group data sources/providers. |
No information available | |
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Governance Controls for Group Changes Ability to restrict or log changes to benchmark or peer group definitions. |
Permissions and logs support governance and tracking of benchmark/peer group changes. |
Visualization & Reporting
(9 Yes /9 Known /11 Possible features)
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Customizable Dashboards Users can design and configure dashboards to highlight relevant analytics. |
Customizable dashboards are advertised as a feature, allowing personalized analytics views. | |
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Time Series Charting Displays portfolio, benchmark, and peer performance over time. |
Time series charting is a central feature, showing historical performance. | |
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Attribution Waterfall Visualization Visual breakdown of performance impact by segment or factor. |
Waterfall and attribution visualizations are available for performance analysis. | |
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Export to PDF/Excel/PowerPoint Output charts and tables to common report formats. |
Export to PDF, Excel, and PowerPoint is specifically supported, as shown in reporting features. | |
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White-labeling Ability to customize branding and layout for client-facing reports. |
Institutional clients can apply white-labeling to client reports. | |
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Drill-down Analytics Users can interactively drill into performance drivers by factor or security. |
Interactive drill-down analytics enable users to see performance by asset, sector, or security. | |
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Scheduled Report Distribution Automated preparation and distribution of recurring reports. |
Scheduled or automated distribution of recurring reports is supported in Morningstar Direct. | |
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Heatmaps and Distribution Plots Visuals for single period or cross-sectional product/peer analytics. |
No information available | |
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Interactive Filtering Dashboards can be filtered in real time by date range, currency, etc. |
Filtering, sorting, and interactive controls are core dashboard capabilities. | |
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Data Annotation Capability Users can add notes, comments, or flags to charts and tables. |
No information available | |
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Real-time Visualization Updates Charts and tables refresh live with new data inputs. |
Dashboards and some tables can be set to auto-refresh with latest data inputs. |
Performance Attribution Analysis
(8 Yes /8 Known /10 Possible features)
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Multi-level Attribution Attribution by asset class, sector, region, security, or custom grouping. |
Attribution by asset class, sector, region, and security is a documented feature. | |
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Factor-based Attribution Analyzes performance drivers by exposures to macro/micro factors (style, credit, ESG, etc.). |
Factor-level attribution analysis (e.g., style, macro factors, credit, ESG) is included in analytics. | |
|
Currency Attribution Ability to isolate impact of currency movements on returns. |
Currency attribution is included in performance modules where relevant. | |
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Excess Return Decomposition Breakdown of out(under)performance by sources. |
Sources of excess return and underperformance are broken down in attribution modules. | |
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Drill-through to Holding Level Trace attribution results from top-level to individual securities. |
Look-through analytics down to holding/security level is a supported and promoted feature. | |
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Maturity/Sector Attribution for FI Attribution modules tailored for fixed income portfolio analytics. |
Fixed income attribution, including sector/maturity analysis, is specifically provided. | |
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Interaction Effect Calculation Explicit calculation of the interaction term in multi-factor attribution. |
No information available | |
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Integrated Contribution Charts Visual representation of positive/negative contributors. |
Attribution modules support visual breakdowns of performance via contribution charts. | |
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Look-through Attribution Attribution analyzes holdings within nested structures (fund-of-funds, wrappers). |
Attribution and analytics modules support look-throughs across wrappers and fund-of-funds. | |
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Scenario Attribution Tools Enables hypothetical or 'what if' attribution analysis. |
No information available |
Product Comparison & Positioning
(9 Yes /9 Known /10 Possible features)
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Multi-product Comparison Side-by-side comparison of multiple products, portfolios, and benchmarks. |
Direct facilitates comparison of multiple portfolios, products, and benchmarks in a single view. | |
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Peer Ranking Metrics Automatically ranks products on alpha, information ratio, fees, and other attributes. |
Peer ranking metrics (e.g. alpha, information ratio) are part of fund comparison views. | |
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Performance Quartile/Decile Splits Highlights quartile or decile peer group standings for single or multi periods. |
Quartile and decile splits are displayed in peer comparison modules. | |
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Risk Statistic Comparison Compares stdev, tracking error, downside risk, etc. across products. |
Risk statistics such as standard deviation, tracking error, and downside risk are provided in product comparison tables. | |
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Return Deviation Alerts Automatic flagging of statistically significant out/underperformance. |
Return deviation and anomaly alerts can be set within peer comparison frameworks. | |
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Peer Group Custom Filters Filter and compare products with custom peer screens (region, strategy, etc.). |
Peer group comparators and custom filters can be applied across regions, strategies, and other attributes. | |
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Comparative Style Mapping Maps products to style or strategy categories for peer relevance. |
Direct supports mapping products to investment style or category for enhanced peer analysis. | |
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Marketing Tear-sheets Generation Automatically produces client-ready factsheets for product positioning. |
Tear-sheet and client factsheet generation is a flagship feature of Morningstar Direct. | |
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Highlight Outliers & Unique Selling Points Automatically detects and surfaces differentiators for marketing. |
No information available | |
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ESG/Responsible Investing Rankings Provides ESG or sustainability scores for competitive positioning. |
ESG and sustainable investing rankings are a key differentiator promoted by Morningstar. |
User Experience & Workflow
(10 Yes /10 Known /10 Possible features)
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Intuitive User Interface Interface is easy to navigate and use for a variety of personas. |
Morningstar is recognized for its intuitive, research-grade interfaces. | |
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Search & Filter Tools Fast search, sorting, and filtering of portfolios and datasets. |
Advanced filtering/search tools are present at portfolio, security, and dataset levels. | |
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Saved Views & Templates Ability to bookmark or template key report configurations. |
Users can save report templates and view configurations for reuse. | |
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Multi-user Collaboration Enables team collaboration (comments, shared access, approval workflows). |
Team sharing, commenting, and multi-user collaboration are possible within the software. | |
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In-app Notifications & Alerts The system can send event-based alerts within the application. |
In-app notifications and customizable alerts can be set for portfolios and analytics triggers. | |
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Mobile Device Support Optimized or native access through mobile devices. |
Mobile interface and optimized views are available for Morningstar Direct users. | |
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User Role & Permission Management Supports granular access and edit controls by user or group. |
Admin tools support role-based access and granular permissions. | |
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Bulk Upload/Download of Data Ability to quickly upload or download large datasets/files. |
Bulk import/export and file uploads are core parts of the data workflow. | |
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Integration with Productivity Tools Ability to connect with email, chat, or workflow management apps. |
The platform offers connectivity to workflow tools and productivity apps through integrations. | |
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Custom Workflows Ability to configure stepwise processes for analytics reviews, approvals, or marketing. |
Custom workflows are supported to configure analytics, approvals, and marketing steps. |
Scalability & System Performance
(5 Yes /5 Known /10 Possible features)
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Concurrent User Support Maximum number of users that can access the system simultaneously without performance degradation. |
No information available | |
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Large Dataset Handling Ability to efficiently process analytics on very large portfolios or long data histories. |
Engineered for large portfolios and data histories; marketing materials emphasize scalability. | |
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System Uptime Guaranteed percentage of time system is operational during business hours. |
No information available | |
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Cloud Deployment Options Availability of cloud-native or hosted delivery configurations. |
Morningstar Direct is available via cloud/SaaS and on-premise deployment. | |
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Performance Latency Typical wait time for key analytic processes to complete at normal load. |
No information available | |
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On-demand Processing Scalability System can dynamically allocate more resources to large/complex requests. |
Cloud architecture and system design allow scaling for heavier or more complex analytics requests. | |
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Batch Processing Speed How quickly the system processes batch analytics jobs. |
No information available | |
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Automatic System Scaling Automatically increases resources to meet higher usage or data loads. |
Automatic scaling in cloud deployments to meet data/user load spikes. | |
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Disaster Recovery Readiness Ability to restore system and data quickly after an outage. |
Disaster recovery and system failover plans are in place for enterprise SaaS clients. | |
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API Throughput Number of successful API requests the system can handle per second. |
No information available |
Compliance & Audit
(7 Yes /7 Known /10 Possible features)
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Comprehensive Audit Trails All changes to calculations, configurations, and data are logged with user/time stamps. |
All data changes and calculations are logged and auditable, facilitating compliance. | |
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Automated Compliance Checks System runs checks for relevant investment restrictions or policies (e.g., GIPS). |
Compliance check modules are available, including GIPS and regulatory standards. | |
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Role-based Access Controls Granular controls to limit data and feature access based on role. |
Role-based security and access controls are standard features. | |
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End-to-end Data Lineage Tracking Ability to trace any metric or report back through all underlying data sources and transformations. |
No information available | |
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Report Versioning & Approval Maintains prior versions and approval history of externally distributed reports. |
No information available | |
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Data Retention Policy Support Supports configurable retention periods for audit and compliance data. |
Data retention periods are configurable for compliance and audit requirements. | |
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Regulator-ready Exports Produces outputs suitable for submission to regulatory bodies. |
Report exports are suitable for regulatory and GIPS/PRIIPs submission. | |
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Sensitive Data Masking Automatically obfuscates or redacts sensitive data elements as needed. |
Personally identifiable information (PII) masking features are available for compliance. | |
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Integrated Compliance Workflow Workflows guide users through compliance-related analytic processes. |
No information available | |
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Certification Support System can help with GIPS, PRIIPs, or similar certifications. |
Certifications such as GIPS and PRIIPs are explicitly supported in product documentation. |
Security & Data Protection
(8 Yes /8 Known /10 Possible features)
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Data Encryption at Rest All datasets encrypted on disk/storage. |
Data at rest is encrypted in the Morningstar Direct cloud platform. | |
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Data Encryption in Transit All data flows encrypted between systems and users. |
Communication and system data are protected with TLS/SSL encryption in transit. | |
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Multi-factor Authentication Strong authentication required for user access. |
Multi-factor authentication is available and can be enforced for users. | |
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Single Sign-on Integration Supports secure sign-in through SSO providers. |
SSO integration is available for enterprise Morningstar Direct clients. | |
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Granular Permissions Access can be specified by product, report, or function. |
Permissions can be set by user, product, or report for granular access. | |
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Regular Vulnerability Testing System is proactively scanned for potential security gaps. |
No information available | |
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Data Backup Frequency Frequency at which all analytics and reports are securely backed up. |
No information available | |
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Intrusion Detection Monitors for and alerts upon unauthorized access attempts. |
Intrusion detection and security monitoring are part of the cloud security posture. | |
|
User Activity Monitoring Tracks and reviews user activity for suspicious behavior. |
User activity can be logged and monitored for security and compliance. | |
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Secure API Access APIs are protected with encryption and authentication. |
API security includes encryption and authentication by design. |
Customizability & Extensibility
(9 Yes /9 Known /10 Possible features)
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Custom Report Builder Advanced interface for designing custom reports, layouts, and analytics dashboards. |
Users can build custom reports and dashboards with flexible layouts. | |
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Custom Metrics/Formulas Support Create, save, and reuse proprietary metrics, calculations, or modeling approaches. |
Custom metric/formula building is allowed in reporting and analytic modules. | |
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Integration with Other Analytics Tools Ability to plug into BI, statistical, or quantitative analysis environments (e.g. Tableau, Python, R). |
Integration with BI/statistical tools (like Excel, Tableau, Python) is supported. | |
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Open API for Extension Rich, documented API enabling integrations and new feature development. |
Open APIs are documented and available for integration/extension. | |
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White-label Portal Options Fully custom branding and client-facing experience. |
White-label portal and client-facing UI customization options are offered. | |
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Custom Workflow Automation Ability to automate unique product approval, review, or marketing flows. |
Automation rules and workflows for product/process approvals can be defined. | |
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Support for Plug-ins/Add-ons Users or third parties can extend platform via plugins or add-ons. |
No information available | |
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Flexible Data Model Underlying data model can accommodate new instruments, attributes, hierarchies. |
Data model is extensible to new securities, attributes, or analytics hierarchies. | |
|
Custom Alert Triggers Users can define unique conditions to trigger alerts or workflows. |
Users can define custom alert conditions for events within the platform. | |
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Multiple Language/Regional Support Interface available in additional languages and regional formats. |
Global and regional support, including multiple languages, is available for multinational users. |
Economic Research Platforms for Investment Strategy & Asset Allocation
Comprehensive databases and analytical tools focused on macroeconomic indicators, central bank policies, and global economic trends to inform top-down investment strategy and asset allocation decisions.
More Economic Research Platforms
More Investment Strategy & Asset Allocation ...
Data Coverage
(10 Yes /10 Known /14 Possible features)
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Macroeconomic Indicators Access to key macroeconomic data (GDP, inflation, unemployment, etc.) from global sources. |
Morningstar Direct aggregates and provides access to macroeconomic indicators like GDP, inflation, and unemployment as part of global market coverage. | |
|
Market Data Coverage of asset prices, returns, volumes, and other market dynamics. |
Market data, including asset prices, returns and volumes, is a core component of Morningstar Direct. | |
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Alternative Data Availability of non-traditional data sets (satellite imagery, credit card analytics, etc.). |
Morningstar Direct incorporates alternative data such as ESG metrics and credit analytics in its platform. | |
|
Historical Depth How far back time series data extends. |
No information available | |
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Geographic Coverage Number of unique countries or regions covered by the platform. |
No information available | |
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Frequency of Updates How frequently the data sets are updated. |
No information available | |
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ESG Data Integration Whether Environmental, Social & Governance metrics are included. |
Morningstar Direct offers integrated ESG metrics, ratings, and analytics. | |
|
Real-time Data Feeds Supports access to streaming or push-based real-time data. |
Morningstar Direct supports realtime or streaming data for key market datasets and alerting. | |
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Proprietary Data Sets Exclusive or premium custom data sets created by the provider. |
Morningstar's proprietary data sets include unique ratings, analytics, and research not available elsewhere. | |
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Economic Forecasts Inclusion of consensus and proprietary economic forecast data. |
Economic forecasts are integrated, including consensus and analytics-based projections. | |
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Sector and Industry Data Coverage of sector- or industry-specific economic data. |
Industry and sector-level data is available for portfolio and market analytics. | |
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Granular Data Resolution Finest resolution available, such as tick-level or daily. |
No information available | |
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Event Data Coverage of central bank meetings, black swans, and market events. |
Morningstar Direct covers key market events, including central bank meetings and economic releases. | |
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Source Transparency Availability of details regarding data sources and collection methodologies. |
References to transparent methodology and data source disclosure are available in product documentation. |
Analytics & Modelling Tools
(12 Yes /12 Known /13 Possible features)
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Factor Analysis Ability to analyze economic or investment factors. |
Factor-based analytics (e.g., risk, return decomposition) are a standard offering. | |
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Signal Generation Automated creation of economic or market signals for use in strategies. |
Automated signal generation tools are available—performance alerts, factor signals, etc. | |
|
Quantitative Models Availability of pre-built and customizable quantitative models. |
Quantitative models for performance attribution, multi-factor risk are standard. | |
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Backtesting Engine Support for historical backtesting of strategies and allocation models. |
Historical portfolio and strategy backtesting is a marketed feature. | |
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Scenario Analysis Built-in tools for stress-testing portfolios under economic scenarios. |
Portfolio scenario analysis and stress testing available in reporting and risk analytics. | |
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Portfolio Optimization Robust tools for optimal asset allocation and risk-return optimization. |
Portfolio optimization engines are included for asset allocation and risk/reward analysis. | |
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Correlation & Causality Analysis Analysis of relationships among variables and causal inference. |
Correlation, causality, and regression analysis tools are included. | |
|
Custom Model Builder Tools that support creation and testing of user-defined models. |
Custom model builder is available for user-defined investment and risk models. | |
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Machine Learning Integration Support for data-driven ML analytics within the platform. |
ML-based insights and analytics are increasingly available; basic support confirmed. | |
|
Alpha Capture Tools Ability to identify and visualize sources of potential excess returns. |
Visualization tools for identifying alpha (excess return) drivers are present. | |
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Simulation Speed Maximum speed at which simulations or runs can be completed. |
No information available | |
|
Code-free Analysis Offers analysis tools for non-programmers through GUI interfaces. |
Extensive GUI tools available for non-programmer analysis. | |
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Cross-asset Modelling Ability to model and analyze across asset classes seamlessly. |
Supports multi-asset analytics across equity, fixed income, funds, etc. |
Reporting & Visualization
(8 Yes /8 Known /11 Possible features)
|
Dashboard Customization Users can create and personalize dashboards for key economic and investment metrics. |
Users can fully customize dashboards and reports. | |
|
Automated Report Generation Platform can create and schedule bespoke reports automatically. |
Reports can be generated and scheduled automatically. | |
|
Charting & Graphing Wide range of customizable charts and graphs. |
Comprehensive charting and visualization support. | |
|
Infographic Creation Automatic generation of infographics and summary visuals. |
No information available | |
|
Export Formats Number of file formats supported for exporting reports (PDF, Excel, PPT, etc.). |
No information available | |
|
API Report Access Reports and visualizations accessible via API. |
API access to reports, dashboards, and data is available. | |
|
White-labeling Support for custom branding (logos, colors) on platform outputs. |
White-labeling/custom branding is supported for client report outputs. | |
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Dynamic Filtering Real-time filtering and slicing/dicing of dashboards or reports. |
No information available | |
|
Collaboration Tools Built-in tools for sharing, commenting, or collaborating on reports. |
Collaboration and sharing tools are integrated, including comments and shared dashboards. | |
|
Drill-down Interactivity Ability to explore details underlying summary statistics interactively. |
Dashboards and reports are interactive, allowing drill-down on data points. | |
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Scheduled Distribution Automated scheduling and distribution of reports to defined lists. |
Report scheduling and automated email distribution are supported. |
Integration & Interoperability
(7 Yes /7 Known /10 Possible features)
|
API Access RESTful or Python/R API for extracting platform data and analytics. |
APIs available for data extraction in Python and other programming languages. | |
|
Connectors for BI Tools Native integrations with tools like Tableau, Power BI, or Qlik. |
Integrates with Power BI, Tableau, and other BI platforms. | |
|
Custom Data Upload Ability to upload and analyze proprietary datasets alongside platform data. |
Custom datasets can be uploaded for use in analytics. | |
|
Cloud Storage Integration Can connect with cloud data storage providers (AWS S3, Azure Blob, etc.). |
Integration with third-party/cloud storage such as AWS, Azure is possible as per documentation. | |
|
Direct Database Access Supports connections to external SQL or NoSQL databases. |
Direct database connection (SQL, ODBC) supported via integration layer. | |
|
File Format Support Number of supported data import/export file types (CSV, JSON, XML, etc.). |
No information available | |
|
Real-time Push/Streaming Supports live streaming of analytics or data to downstream systems. |
No information available | |
|
Open Standards Compliance Compatibility with widely adopted open standards for data exchange. |
Open data standards such as Excel/CSV/JSON and API conventions are followed. | |
|
Mobile App Connectivity Platform supports mobile access and integration. |
Mobile access (iOS/Android) is available for Morningstar Direct. | |
|
Scripting/Plugin Support Allows user extensions via Python, R, or plugins. |
No information available |
Research Content & Insights
(9 Yes /9 Known /10 Possible features)
|
In-house Analyst Research Original reports and commentary from the platform’s internal research teams. |
Research, ratings, and commentary are produced by Morningstar's in-house analysts. | |
|
Third-party Research Access Aggregation or syndication of top-tier external research providers. |
Access to third-party and syndicated research is available. | |
|
Thematic Research Coverage Access to research on major investment or macroeconomic themes. |
Product highlights coverage for major investment and macro themes. | |
|
Event-driven Analysis Timely insights and analysis following economic or market events. |
Morningstar Direct provides rapid insights following market/economic events. | |
|
Custom Research Requests Users can commission bespoke research or analysis. |
Custom research requests can be submitted for bespoke analysis. | |
|
Research Archive Size Number of historical reports or research notes available. |
No information available | |
|
Analyst Access Direct access to research analysts for Q&A or briefings. |
Clients get direct access to Morningstar analyst teams for Q&A and consultation. | |
|
Research Alerts Custom alerts for newly published research on defined topics. |
Configurable research topic alerts are available. | |
|
Global Macro Coverage Focus on international macro research (EM, DM, cross-border flows). |
Platform covers global macro research with an international focus. | |
|
Quantitative Commentary Data-driven research and commentary using quantitative methods. |
Quantitative research and commentary included in research workflow. |
User Experience & Customization
(8 Yes /8 Known /10 Possible features)
|
User-friendly Interface Modern, intuitive interfaces for navigation and workflow. |
UI is modern and widely praised for intuitive navigation. | |
|
Personalization Options Users can save and personalize layouts, views, and workflows. |
User personalization—layouts, saved screens, custom workflows—are explicitly available. | |
|
Multi-language Support Number of languages the UI is localized in. |
No information available | |
|
Accessibility Features Built-in support for visually/hearing-impaired users. |
Accessibility features are supported for compliance (screen readers, high contrast, etc.). | |
|
Custom Workspace Creation Users can build and save complex workspaces matching investment team needs. |
Users can design, save, and retrieve custom workspace layouts. | |
|
Responsive Design Platform renders well on devices of different sizes. |
Platform is optimized for use on desktop, tablet, and mobile screens (responsive design). | |
|
Notification Preferences Granular controls over notification and alert settings. |
Notification preferences are configurable for different event types and severity. | |
|
Keyboard Shortcuts Time-saving keyboard shortcuts and workflow accelerators. |
No information available | |
|
Help & Onboarding Assistance Built-in tutorials, guided tours, and onboarding resources. |
Comprehensive help and onboarding guidance is available in-product. | |
|
User Community & Forums Access to forums and peer-to-peer support communities. |
User community, forums, and knowledge base are available to Direct subscribers. |
Collaboration & Workflow
(6 Yes /6 Known /10 Possible features)
|
Shared Workspaces Ability to create and share project or research workspaces among teams. |
Collaborative workspace features for sharing projects and dashboards. | |
|
Commenting & Annotation Tools for commenting on dashboards, charts, or research. |
Dashboards and reports support direct commenting and annotation tools. | |
|
Task & Project Management Integration with task lists, project tracking, or workflow engines. |
No information available | |
|
Version History and Audit Trails Version tracking for research, models, and data usage. |
Version control is supported for reports and shared content. | |
|
Access Control & Permissions Robust, role-based security for restricting access and sharing. |
Enterprise-grade access control and permissions are available. | |
|
E-mail & Calendar Integration Integration with Outlook, Google Workspace, or similar. |
No information available | |
|
Instant Messaging Integration Supports Slack, Teams, or custom chat for real-time collaboration. |
No information available | |
|
Real-time Collaboration Multiple users can work simultaneously on shared materials. |
Shared workspaces enable multi-user collaboration in real time. | |
|
Activity Notifications Alerts for changes, comments, or team activity. |
Actionable activity notifications are available for team collaboration. | |
|
Approval Workflows Support for research or report publication approval processes. |
No information available |
Security & Compliance
(6 Yes /6 Known /10 Possible features)
|
Data Encryption All data is encrypted at rest and in transit. |
Data encryption at rest and in transit is highlighted in Morningstar security documentation. | |
|
Audit Logs Detailed logging of data access, downloads, and user actions. |
Audit logs for key user actions and data access are maintained. | |
|
Multi-factor Authentication Use of multi-factor authentication for all or privileged users. |
Multi-factor authentication is supported for user access security. | |
|
Compliance Certifications Number of major certifications achieved (SOC2, ISO27001, GDPR, etc.). |
No information available | |
|
User Permission Granularity Number of distinct user roles or permission levels available. |
No information available | |
|
Data Residency Options Support for data storage in specific geographies/jurisdictions. |
No information available | |
|
Single-sign-on Integration Integration with SSO providers (Okta, AAD, etc.). |
Supports SSO integration with enterprise identity systems. | |
|
Data Retention Policies Automated enforcement of user-defined data retention/deletion policies. |
No information available | |
|
IP Whitelisting Restrict platform access by defined IP address ranges. |
IP whitelisting is available for enterprise clients. | |
|
Privacy Compliance Tools Tools for supporting GDPR, CCPA, and global privacy regulation requirements. |
Tools and documentation for GDPR, CCPA compliance are provided. |
Performance & Reliability
(2 Yes /2 Known /10 Possible features)
|
Uptime Guarantee Service-level uptime commitment from vendor. |
No information available | |
|
Page Load Speed Average time to load key dashboards/reports. |
No information available | |
|
Query Latency Typical latency for user queries or report refreshes. |
No information available | |
|
Concurrent User Support Maximum number of users supported at once. |
No information available | |
|
Data Throughput Maximum volume of data processes per second. |
No information available | |
|
Disaster Recovery RPO/RTO Recovery Point and Recovery Time Objectives in case of outage. |
No information available | |
|
Scaling Capacity Max number of data series or size of data sets handled. |
No information available | |
|
Resource Usage Monitoring Built-in monitoring for platform/system resource usage. |
Built-in resource monitoring available for system health. | |
|
24/7 Platform Monitoring Vendor provides round-the-clock platform health monitoring. |
24/7 platform health monitoring by vendor is marketed for enterprise reliability. | |
|
Real-time Failover Automatic failover to redundant systems for high-availability. |
No information available |
Support & Training
(6 Yes /6 Known /10 Possible features)
|
Onboarding & Implementation Support Availability of guided onboarding and implementation services. |
Onboarding specialists and implementation teams are available post-purchase. | |
|
24/7 Helpdesk On-demand access to support via web, phone, or chat at all hours. |
Support is available 24/7 via web/call/chat channels. | |
|
Dedicated Account Manager Assigned point of contact for support and account questions. |
Enterprise customers receive a dedicated account manager. | |
|
Training Materials Comprehensive documentation, videos, and how-to guides. |
Extensive documentation, how-tos, and video resources provided. | |
|
Live Training Sessions Availability of instructor-led workshops or webinars. |
Live and recorded training sessions are offered for new users. | |
|
User Knowledge Base Searchable library of FAQs, troubleshooting steps, and guides. |
Comprehensive searchable knowledge base included. | |
|
Implementation Timeline Usual time from contract to go-live. |
No information available | |
|
SLA First Response Time Service level agreement for first support response. |
No information available | |
|
User Feedback Integration Platform actively incorporates user suggestions in product roadmap. |
No information available | |
|
Local Language Support Number of languages spoken by support teams. |
No information available |
Cost & Licensing
(9 Yes /10 Known /10 Possible features)
|
Transparent Pricing Clearly published and understandable fee schedules. |
Not as far as we are aware.* Pricing is not published, so not fully transparent. | |
|
Flexible Licensing Options Supports multiple licensing models (named user, enterprise, consumption-based, etc.). |
Named user, enterprise, and volume-based licensing are supported as per product documentation. | |
|
Trial or Sandbox Access Prospective users can try the platform with demo data before purchase. |
Demo/trial access can be requested from sales. | |
|
Tiered Feature Bundles Core vs. premium tiers available to match user needs and budgets. |
Multiple tiers (Direct Standard, Direct Premium) are clearly described in product literature. | |
|
Volume Discount Availability Discounts available for large contracts or long duration agreements. |
Volume discounts for enterprise or bulk licenses available (per pricing page/negotiation). | |
|
Usage/Consumption Metering Ability to track and report on data/feature consumption in real time. |
Feature consumption is reported to users/admins for license management. | |
|
Unbundled Data Pricing Pay only for specific data sets or add-ons required. |
Data packages and add-ons can be purchased individually. | |
|
Contract Length Flexibility Options for short-term, annual, or multi-year contracts. |
Short term, annual, and multi-year contracts offered as confirmed by sales page. | |
|
Migration Cost Support Provider assistance or incentives for migration from legacy platforms. |
Migration support from legacy platforms is available for enterprise deals. | |
|
Cancellation Terms Transparency Clear, upfront terms for cancellation and exit. |
Terms for cancellation are available to potential clients prior to contract. |
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Specialized modeling software for developing forward-looking return, risk, and correlation expectations across asset classes that serve as inputs to strategic asset allocation models.
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Data Integration & Sources
(9 Yes /9 Known /10 Possible features)
|
Multi-Asset Data Connectivity Ability to ingest data from multiple asset classes (e.g., equities, fixed income, real estate, alternatives). |
Morningstar Direct supports multiple asset types, including equities, fixed income, real estate, alternatives, and more, reflecting multi-asset data connectivity. | |
|
Live Data Feeds Integration with real-time data feeds for up-to-date market information. |
Described as including real-time and daily-updated market data feeds. | |
|
Historical Data Coverage Availability and depth of historical market data accessible for modeling. |
No information available | |
|
Data Vendor Integration Ability to link to major financial data vendors (Bloomberg, Refinitiv, etc.). |
Integrates with third-party financial data vendors, including Bloomberg, FactSet and Refinitiv via feeds and connectors. | |
|
Custom Dataset Upload Support for uploading bespoke or proprietary datasets. |
Users can upload custom lists, benchmarks, constituent data, and proprietary datasets. | |
|
Data Mapping & Cleansing Tools Automated tools for mapping, cleaning, and validating large datasets. |
Morningstar Direct offers data mapping, cleansing, and validation features especially for custom universe and uploads. | |
|
Frequency Handling Capacity to handle and standardize data at different frequencies (daily, monthly, quarterly). |
Can handle daily, monthly, and quarterly data updates for returns and holdings. | |
|
Currency Handling Support for multi-currency data and conversion capabilities. |
Supports portfolios and analytics in multiple currencies with conversions and currency overlay. | |
|
API Access Provision of APIs for auto data ingestion and integrations. |
APIs available for data ingestion and external integration (including with cloud/enterprise BI tools). | |
|
Audit Trails Full traceability regarding source and transformation of input data. |
Audit trails available for custom uploads and data changes; source and history can be traced. |
Modeling & Assumption Engine
(7 Yes /7 Known /11 Possible features)
|
Asset Return Forecasting Ability to project expected returns for various asset classes. |
Asset return forecasting via quantitative tools, performance analytics and scenario analysis. | |
|
Volatility Forecasting Modeling projected volatility for asset classes. |
Volatility projections and standard deviation analytics for different asset classes included. | |
|
Correlation Estimation Capacity to estimate and customize asset class correlations. |
Correlation matrices and custom correlation estimation tools are available. | |
|
Mean Reversion Modeling Modeling long-term mean reverting tendencies for returns/volatility. |
No information available | |
|
Fat-Tail/Non-Normal Distribution Support Ability to model distributions beyond the normal (e.g., skewness, kurtosis). |
No information available | |
|
Scenario Generation Capability to generate and analyze multiple market scenarios based on user inputs or macro drivers. |
Scenario generation and analysis tools, including user-input custom scenarios and macro drivers. | |
|
Macroeconomic Linkages Modeling relationships between macro variables (inflation, GDP, rates) and asset returns. |
Macroeconomic linkage tools available; analytics show impact from macro variables on portfolios. | |
|
Automatic Calibration System-assisted calibration of CMAs to observed market pricing or benchmarks. |
No information available | |
|
Multi-Horizon Modeling Model projections over multiple investment horizons (e.g., 1Y, 5Y, 10Y). |
Projection analytics support single and multi-year investment horizons for model runs. | |
|
Parameter Sensitivity Analysis Tools to test the impact of changing assumption parameters. |
Parameter sensitivity tools available to view impact of changes on results. | |
|
Speed of Assumption Update Time taken for recalibrating CMAs after data change. |
No information available |
Optimization & Asset Allocation
(8 Yes /8 Known /10 Possible features)
|
Efficient Frontier Modeling Generation of efficient frontiers and trade-off curves. |
Efficient frontier and trade-off curve generation is a core part of the optimization suite. | |
|
Portfolio Optimization Algorithms Support for various optimization techniques (mean-variance, Black-Litterman, risk budgeting). |
Multiple optimization algorithms (mean-variance, Black-Litterman, risk parity, etc.) supported. | |
|
Custom Constraints Handling Ability to impose regulatory, ESG, liquidity, and other constraints. |
Can enter custom portfolio constraints, including regulatory, ESG, or user-defined limits. | |
|
Multi-Objective Optimization Optimization based on multiple objectives (risk, return, ESG scores). |
Objectives can include multiple criteria (risk, return, ESG metrics, etc.). | |
|
Scenario-Based Optimization Run optimization under different what-if macro/market scenarios. |
Scenario-based optimization possible by running what-if and stress tests directly in the allocation tool. | |
|
Asset Class Granularity Maximum number of asset classes handled per optimization run. |
No information available | |
|
Optimization Speed Average time for a full optimization run. |
No information available | |
|
Multi-Period Asset Allocation Support for dynamic or glide-path asset allocation approaches. |
Multi-period rebalancing and glide-path asset allocation supported in custom analysis. | |
|
User-Defined Views Integration Ability for users to input subjective views for optimization. |
Users can incorporate proprietary expected returns or house views into optimization. | |
|
Result Exportability Options for exporting optimization results (Excel, PDF, CSV). |
Portfolio and scenario results can be exported to Excel, PDF, and CSV. |
Reporting & Visualization
(6 Yes /6 Known /10 Possible features)
|
Customizable Dashboards Flexibility to build and customize dashboards for different users/teams. |
Users can build, save, and share customized dashboards by role/team. | |
|
Charting Capabilities Variety of graphical outputs (charts, histograms, heatmaps, scenario trees). |
Supports a wide array of charts and visualizations (charts, histograms, heatmaps, scenario trees). | |
|
Assumption Traceability Clear visibility into how assumptions are derived and used. |
Workflows show derivation of assumptions and data sources for transparency. | |
|
Interactivity Users can interactively change assumptions and view real-time impact. |
Users can adjust assumptions and see real-time impacts through interactive charts and sliders. | |
|
Simulation Outputs Visualization of simulation/model outcomes (fan charts, Monte Carlo clouds). |
Simulation outcomes and risk fan charts are available in simulation modules. | |
|
White-Label Reporting Ability to generate branded reports and presentations. |
No information available | |
|
Automated Report Scheduling Set up reports to auto-generate and distribute on schedule. |
Reports can be scheduled and distributed automatically at set frequencies. | |
|
Download Formats Number of file formats supported for output downloads. |
No information available | |
|
Annotations/Notes Ability to annotate charts and reports with notes or rationales. |
No information available | |
|
Multi-Language Support Options for reports in multiple languages. |
No information available |
User Management & Collaboration
(7 Yes /7 Known /10 Possible features)
|
Role-Based Access Control Fine-grained permissioning for individual users and teams. |
Offers role-based user permissioning for dashboards and workbook sharing. | |
|
Audit Logging Complete logging of user actions and changes for compliance/audit. |
Audit logging is available for tracking user changes and compliance. | |
|
Collaboration Tools Real-time note sharing, discussions, and shared workspaces. |
Includes collaboration tools such as shared views, annotations and secure notes. | |
|
Approval Workflows Built-in review and approval process for changing key assumptions or outputs. |
No information available | |
|
User Capacity Maximum number of active user accounts supported. |
No information available | |
|
Version Control Tracking and management of different assumption/model versions. |
Version control available for models, reports, and shared dashboards. | |
|
Single Sign-On (SSO) Integration with enterprise authentication standards. |
Integration with SSO in enterprise subscriptions, compatible with SAML/Active Directory. | |
|
User Activity Monitoring Monitoring and reporting of user sessions and activities. |
No information available | |
|
Collaboration with External Partners Controlled access and sharing with clients or third-party consultants. |
Can provide controlled sharing with clients/consultants via shared workspaces or secure links. | |
|
Data Room/Document Repository Secure cloud storage for files and documentation. |
Secure document repository (data room) upload and sharing is a standard feature. |
Scenario Analysis & Stress Testing
(8 Yes /8 Known /10 Possible features)
|
Custom Scenario Builder Build bespoke market or macroeconomic scenarios. |
Custom scenario builder is available for user-defined market/macroeconomic scenarios. | |
|
Historical Scenario Replay Replay and analyze past crisis events (e.g., 2008, COVID-19 shock). |
Historical event scenario replays supported (e.g. GFC, COVID, etc.). | |
|
Reverse Stress Testing Identify scenarios that would cause portfolio failure or breach risk thresholds. |
No information available | |
|
Multi-Scenario Comparison Simultaneous analysis and comparison of multiple market scenarios. |
Can compare multiple scenarios side-by-side in dashboard. | |
|
Macro Factor Shocks Introduce shocks to macro drivers (rates, inflation) and analyze impact. |
Macro shock tools are included in stress testing modules. | |
|
Downside/Extreme Event Analysis Assessment of tail risks and low-probability extreme outcomes. |
Extreme event and downside scenario analysis is supported. | |
|
Sensitivity Dashboards Visual dashboards to understand key sensitivities. |
Sensitivity dashboards for understanding factor and parameter risk are available. | |
|
Fast Scenario Computation Average time to run and present a new scenario simulation. |
No information available | |
|
Pre-Built Scenario Libraries Library of pre-defined macro and market scenarios. |
Includes pre-built libraries of historical and regulatory scenarios. | |
|
Scenario Export/Documentation Ability to export scenario specifications and results for audit and review. |
Scenario documentation and export available for audit/reporting. |
Performance, Scalability & Security
(6 Yes /6 Known /10 Possible features)
|
System Uptime SLA Percentage uptime guaranteed by the vendor. |
No information available | |
|
Concurrent User Support Maximum number of simultaneous users supported. |
No information available | |
|
Calculation Speed Median time required for full assumption modeling and optimization run. |
No information available | |
|
Cloud Compatibility Capability to deploy or access securely via cloud infrastructure. |
Cloud-based (SaaS); primary deployment is on secure cloud infrastructure. | |
|
On-Premise Option Available as an installable solution within internal firewalls. |
No information available | |
|
Data Encryption (at rest/in transit) Full encryption of data both when stored and transmitted. |
Uses HTTPS and full encryption in transit/rest as part of security certification. | |
|
Multi-Tenancy Support Segregation of data and resources for different clients or teams. |
Multi-tenancy for institutional clients; clear segregation of user data. | |
|
Penetration Testing Certification Regular external security testing and reporting. |
Third-party security review and penetration testing; documented in security whitepapers. | |
|
GDPR/Regulatory Compliance Adherence to relevant data privacy, retention, and usage regulations. |
Morningstar Direct platform is GDPR-compliant and documents compliance for global users. | |
|
Disaster Recovery/Backup Automated backup schedule and recovery protocols. |
Automated backups and disaster recovery procedures described in cloud security policy. |
Customizability, Extensibility & APIs
(5 Yes /5 Known /10 Possible features)
|
Custom Assumption Models Users can build and integrate bespoke modeling assumptions. |
Bespoke modeling and custom factor creation using formula editor and custom fields. | |
|
Open API Access Rich, documented APIs for both data ingestion and result extraction. |
API access with published documentation for data, results extraction, and integration. | |
|
SDK Availability Software development kits for developer customization or embedding. |
No information available | |
|
Scriptable Workflows Use of scripting languages or formula editors for workflow automation. |
No information available | |
|
Modular Architecture Core modules plus optional add-ons/plugins for increased flexibility. |
Modular deployment options for analytics, reporting, and risk; clients can enable/disable modules as needed. | |
|
Integration with Portfolio Management/Order Systems Ready-to-go interfaces with downstream execution or monitoring systems. |
Can integrate with portfolio and order management systems in some enterprise setups. | |
|
Custom UI Components Build/edit custom user interface components for specific needs. |
No information available | |
|
Custom Report Template Design Create and save personalized report formats and templates. |
Report template customization and saving is a key feature for enterprise users. | |
|
Plug-In Marketplace Access Access to a community or marketplace for add-ons/extensions. |
No information available | |
|
Script Execution Time Average time to run custom scripts or extensions. |
No information available |
Risk Analytics & Attribution
(9 Yes /9 Known /10 Possible features)
|
Multi-Factor Risk Models Incorporate multiple risk drivers and factor models. |
Multi-factor risk models and attribution analytics are standard. | |
|
Ex-Ante/Ex-Post Risk Reporting Forward-looking (ex-ante) and backward-looking (ex-post) risk analytics. |
Ex-ante (projected) and ex-post (realized) risk analytics and reports are available. | |
|
Historical VaR & Expected Shortfall Calculation and reporting of Value at Risk and ES based on history. |
VaR/ES models based on historical scenarios available in the analytics platform. | |
|
Stress/Scenario VaR Model stress-testing and VaR under defined scenarios. |
Stress test and scenario-based VaR calculation supported. | |
|
Contribution to Risk Attribution of risk to individual assets or allocations. |
Attribution to sources of risk via contribution analytics (assets, sectors, factors). | |
|
Attribution by Macro Factors Show exposure and risk/return attribution by macroeconomic or style factors. |
Macro factor exposures and attributions included in reporting suite. | |
|
Risk Reporting Frequency Supported data/reporting periodicity for risk analytics. |
No information available | |
|
Drill-Down Analytics Ability to analyze at asset, sector, region, and risk factor levels. |
Drill-down analytics available at the level of asset, sector, country, and risk factor. | |
|
Comparative Portfolio Analysis Compare risk across proposed vs. existing portfolios. |
Portfolio comparison tools are built-in. | |
|
Visual Risk Heatmaps Graphical display of risk concentrations and hotspots. |
Visual risk heatmaps and dashboards are featured in risk reporting. |
Support, Documentation & Training
(9 Yes /9 Known /10 Possible features)
|
Dedicated Account Manager Assigned point of contact for support queries and escalation. |
Dedicated account managers assigned to enterprise clients. | |
|
24/7 Technical Support Round-the-clock helpdesk availability. |
24/7 support included for customers in most regions. | |
|
Online Knowledge Base Comprehensive, searchable user manuals and guides. |
Online user manuals, knowledge base, and learning portal exist. | |
|
Onboarding/Training Programs Structured training sessions and onboarding support. |
Structured onboarding/training is available for all new users and clients. | |
|
Release Notes & Change Alerts Regularly published updates on product changes. |
Product updates are accompanied by release notes and regular update communications. | |
|
User Community/Forums Access to discussion forums and product user groups. |
User community discussion forums and knowledge sharing supported. | |
|
Custom Training Materials Bespoke training resources tailored to firm workflows. |
No information available | |
|
Multichannel Support Support available via email, phone, and chat. |
Support available via email, phone, and chat. | |
|
API/Developer Documentation Extensive, well-maintained documentation for technical integrations. |
Developer/API documentation is publicly available and actively maintained. | |
|
User Feedback Mechanism Platform for submitting enhancement requests and feedback. |
Feedback and enhancement request channels are part of client support. |
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Core Functionality
(9 Yes /9 Known /10 Possible features)
|
Multi-Asset Support Ability to handle multiple asset classes (equities, fixed income, real estate, alternatives, etc.). |
Morningstar Direct supports multiple asset classes including equities, fixed income, mutual funds, ETFs, alternatives, and real estate, as detailed in platform and marketing materials. | |
|
Dynamic Rebalancing Automated or semi-automated portfolio rebalancing in response to market changes or drift. |
Morningstar Direct allows for portfolio rebalancing and incorporates market changes, as seen in documentation and user guides. | |
|
Custom Constraints Capability to apply investment constraints (sector/region limits, ESG, liquidity, etc.). |
Custom constraints such as sector, region, and ESG filters are a core aspect of portfolio analysis in Morningstar Direct. | |
|
Tax Optimization Incorporation of tax-efficient asset allocation techniques. |
Tax-aware investment modeling and reporting are explicitly listed as features in Morningstar Direct product documentation. | |
|
Cash Management Management of cash positions as part of allocation decisions. |
Cash positions are supported and can be included/excluded in allocation, per Direct's portfolio holdings structure. | |
|
Model Portfolio Support Ability to build, track, and manage model portfolios. |
Model portfolio creation, tracking, and management are central use cases promoted for Direct. | |
|
Scenario Analysis Support for scenario or what-if analyses to assess allocation outcomes. |
Scenario analysis (what-if, stress test) is provided through 'Hypotheticals' in the platform. | |
|
Optimization Engine Speed Average speed of running optimization calculations. |
No information available | |
|
Flexible Asset Universes Easily define, update, and manage the investable universe. |
Users may define custom asset universes for screening and analysis. | |
|
Algorithm Choices Selection of different optimization algorithms (mean-variance, Black-Litterman, etc.). |
Multiple optimization methodologies (e.g., mean-variance, Black-Litterman) are supported for portfolio construction in Direct. |
Risk Management
(9 Yes /10 Known /10 Possible features)
|
Factor Exposure Analysis Ability to analyze portfolio exposures to risk factors. |
Risk factor exposures, such as style/factor analysis, are detailed as part of Direct's analytics. | |
|
VaR Calculation Built-in Value-at-Risk (VaR) estimation for portfolios. |
Value-at-Risk (VaR) and other risk statistics are available in Morningstar Direct’s risk tools. | |
|
Stress Testing Run stress scenarios based on historical or hypothetical shocks. |
Stress testing with historical and hypothetical scenarios is built into the platform. | |
|
Downside Risk Metrics Metrics such as maximum drawdown, Sortino ratio, or downside deviation. |
Drawdown, Sortino ratio, and related downside metrics appear in Direct’s analytics dashboards. | |
|
Real-Time Risk Monitoring Continuous monitoring of portfolio risk characteristics. |
Not as far as we are aware.* Does not provide true real-time (tick-by-tick) monitoring of risk, but provides daily/periodic updates. | |
|
Custom Risk Models Ability to integrate custom or third-party risk models. |
Custom risk models and integration of third-party risk analytics are supported per Direct documentation. | |
|
Limit Breach Alerts Alerts for when predefined risk or allocation limits are breached. |
Can configure risk or allocation limit alerts via analytics and monitoring modules. | |
|
User-defined Risk Budgets Support for defining and enforcing portfolio risk budgets. |
User-defined risk budgets and constraints are included as part of custom portfolio settings. | |
|
Correlation Analytics Calculation and visualization of asset and factor correlations. |
Correlation analysis is available in fund and asset analytics sections. | |
|
Risk Attribution Attribution of portfolio risk by asset, sector, or factor. |
Risk attribution by sector, asset, and factor are supported in the reporting suite. |
Performance Measurement & Attribution
(10 Yes /10 Known /10 Possible features)
|
Gross & Net Performance Calculation Support for calculating gross and net of fee returns. |
Performance is calculated both gross and net of fees in the report builder. | |
|
Time-weighted Return Calculation of time-weighted performance metrics. |
Time-weighted returns (TWR) are a standard metric in the platform. | |
|
Money-weighted Return (IRR) Support for money-weighted performance calculation (IRR). |
Money-weighted returns (IRR/XIRR) available, as shown in portfolio analytics. | |
|
Multi-level Attribution Granular attribution of performance at asset, sector, and strategy levels. |
Direct supports multi-level attribution, including sector and asset/class breakdowns. | |
|
Benchmark Comparison Capability to compare portfolios versus custom or standard benchmarks. |
Custom benchmarks, major indexes, and peer group comparisons are supported. | |
|
Peer Group Analysis Ability to analyze performance relative to peer funds/managers. |
Peer group analysis and manager comparisons are core platform features. | |
|
Performance Drift Alerts Automated notifications of performance or allocation drifts. |
Performance drift and allocation drift alerts can be configured. | |
|
Periodicity Options Support for daily, monthly, and custom period return calculations. |
Periodicity (daily, monthly, custom) is a standard user option for report outputs. | |
|
Custom Reporting Templates Design and generate custom performance and attribution reports. |
Direct includes a custom report builder, report design interface, and saved templates. | |
|
Alpha/Beta Separation Breakdown and presentation of alpha and beta in performance. |
Alpha and Beta decomposition is available via analytics/reports. |
Data Integration & Management
(8 Yes /8 Known /10 Possible features)
|
Multi-vendor Data Feeds Support for ingesting data from major market data providers. |
Direct supports major market data provider feeds and integration. | |
|
Look-through to Underlying Assets Ability to perform analytics using constituent-level data (e.g., for ETFs or funds). |
Look-through capability for funds and ETFs is provided in analytics. | |
|
Corporate Actions Processing Accurately processes corporate actions relevant to allocations. |
Corporate actions are processed and reflected in analytics/holdings. | |
|
Data Quality Checks Automated checks for missing or erroneous data. |
Complete with automated checks for gaps or outliers in data imports. | |
|
Data Latency Typical delay between data availability and system update. |
No information available | |
|
Historical Data Coverage Length of available clean historical data for analysis. |
undefined Historical data coverage is extensive, including decades of global investment data (precise years depend on asset class). |
|
|
User Data Import/Export Ability to import custom data sources and export data/results. |
Import/export features for custom datasets are available and documented. | |
|
APIs for Data Access Availability of programmable data access interfaces (REST, Python, etc.). |
APIs and SDKs are available for programmatic data extraction (Python, REST). | |
|
Reference Data Management Centralized reference/metadata management (tickers, CUSIPs, sectors). |
Reference/metadata management is possible via centralized security and index databases. | |
|
Auto Update Frequency Frequency of automatic data updates. |
No information available |
Usability & User Experience
(9 Yes /9 Known /10 Possible features)
|
Intuitive User Interface User interface is designed for clarity, efficiency, and low error rates. |
The UI is widely noted for usability and low error rates by industry reviewers. | |
|
Customizable Dashboards Users can personalize home screens and dashboards. |
Dashboard customization (widgets, layouts) is offered. | |
|
Multi-device Support System can be accessed via web, desktop, and mobile. |
Accessible through web and desktop; mobile support primarily for reporting and dashboards (via browser). | |
|
User Roles & Permissions Fine-grained access and permissions by user type. |
Role-based and user permissions are centrally managed in Direct. | |
|
Help & Documentation Comprehensive help, guides, and contextual documentation available. |
Comprehensive documentation, help site, and context documentation included. | |
|
Bulk Action Capability Ability to perform batch edits or processes on multiple portfolio items. |
Bulk editing and batch actions are available in many data management and reporting modules. | |
|
UI Response Time Average time for UI page or report to load. |
No information available | |
|
Accessibility Compliance Adherence to accessibility standards (WCAG, etc.). |
Morningstar has published accessibility-compliance statements and several accessibility features. | |
|
Language Localizations Supports multiple language options for global teams. |
Supports several major languages globally, per product specifications. | |
|
Dashboard Widgets Availability of customizable dashboard widgets for key metrics. |
Dashboard widgets are supported and configurable. |
Reporting & Analytics
(9 Yes /9 Known /10 Possible features)
|
Custom Report Builder Drag-and-drop or code-based custom report creation. |
Drag-and-drop and rule-based custom report builder is a major feature of Direct. | |
|
Scheduled Report Delivery Ability to schedule and automate report distribution. |
Report scheduling and automated distribution are supported. | |
|
Interactive Charts Real-time, interactive visualizations of data and scenarios. |
Interactive charts, scenario visualizations, and custom analytics are supported. | |
|
Drill-down Analytics User can drill down from portfolio to specific assets for deep analysis. |
Drill-down analytics from top-down to individual securities. | |
|
Data Export Formats Multiple export formats (PDF, Excel, CSV, PowerPoint). |
Standard and custom export formats (XLS, CSV, PDF, PPT) available. | |
|
Regulatory Reporting Automated generation of compliance and regulatory reports. |
Supports regulatory and compliance reporting per client and regulator needs. | |
|
Comparison Views View and compare multiple portfolios or strategies side by side. |
Multiple portfolios/strategies can be displayed side by side for analysis. | |
|
KPI Dashboards Tailorable dashboards with key performance indicators. |
Customizable KPI dashboards offered. | |
|
Time to Generate Reports Average time to produce standard analytic reports. |
No information available | |
|
Templated Compliance Reports Prebuilt compliance and client-ready reporting templates. |
Compliance-focused and client-ready templated reports are available. |
Integration & Interoperability
(5 Yes /6 Known /10 Possible features)
|
Order Management System Integration Native integration with OMS for seamless trade execution. |
No information available | |
|
External Portfolio Management Systems Interfaces with other portfolio or risk management platforms. |
Integration with other portfolio management and risk tools is supported (fact sheets, APIs, .csv export). | |
|
Data API Availability RESTful or web services APIs for data push/pull. |
APIs are available for data push/pull. | |
|
Customizable File Imports Support for custom file format/data structure ingestions. |
Supports custom file formats for data import. | |
|
Workflow Automation Hooks APIs/webhooks for triggering actions in downstream systems. |
No information available | |
|
Single Sign-On (SSO) Active Directory, SAML, or OAuth SSO support. |
Single-sign-on is supported (SAML/OAuth) for enterprise clients. | |
|
Mobile App Integration Works with dedicated or third-party mobile applications. |
Not as far as we are aware.* No dedicated mobile app integration as of 2024; mobile access is mainly via web browser. | |
|
Batch Data Upload Time Max time required to batch-upload large datasets. |
No information available | |
|
Portfolio Export Compatibility Exports compatible with leading accounting or custody solutions. |
Exports are compatible with external systems due to standardization (Excel, CSV, etc). | |
|
Plug-in Support Ability to extend capabilities via plug-ins or add-ons. |
No information available |
Security & Compliance
(9 Yes /9 Known /10 Possible features)
|
Data Encryption in Transit TLS or equivalent encryption for all transmitted data. |
Data in transit is protected with TLS/SSL per Morningstar security whitepapers. | |
|
Data Encryption at Rest Stored data is encrypted on disk. |
Morningstar documentation confirms use of disk encryption for data at rest. | |
|
Role-based Access Control Access governed by granular roles and permissions. |
Role-based access and permissions structure implemented throughout Direct platform. | |
|
Audit Logs Detailed and immutable records of data and user activity. |
Detailed audit logs for data/user activity per compliance requirements. | |
|
Regulatory Certifications Compliance certifications such as SOC 2, ISO 27001. |
SOC 2 and other regulatory certifications reported by Morningstar Inc. | |
|
Two-factor Authentication Enables two-factor authentication for user logins. |
Two-factor authentication is offered as a security configuration. | |
|
Data Retention Policy Management Configurable data retention and deletion policies. |
Data retention and deletion policies are configurable for enterprise clients. | |
|
Privacy Controls Configurable settings for user and client privacy preferences. |
Privacy controls for client data are implemented as per product and privacy policies. | |
|
Security Patch Frequency Average frequency of security patch deployment. |
No information available | |
|
Secure API Access APIs have robust authentication and authorization. |
API security and access controls are well-documented and industry standard. |
Scalability & Performance
(1 Yes /2 Known /10 Possible features)
|
Concurrent Users Supported Max number of simultaneous users. |
No information available | |
|
Portfolio Size Capacity Number of assets that can be handled in a portfolio. |
No information available | |
|
Real-time Data Update Frequency Max frequency at which live data is updated and displayed. |
No information available | |
|
Batch Calculation Speed Speed when running batch analyses (e.g., overnight jobs). |
No information available | |
|
Cloud Deployment Option Supports cloud or SaaS deployment models. |
Morningstar Direct is cloud-accessible (SaaS model supported). | |
|
On-prem Deployment Option Supports on-premise or private cloud installations. |
Not as far as we are aware.* No native on-premise version—primarily SaaS/cloud deployment. | |
|
Horizontal Scaling Can increase system capacity by adding more servers or nodes. |
No information available | |
|
Load Balancing Automatically distributes processing or network demands. |
No information available | |
|
Disaster Recovery RPO Recovery point objective for disaster scenarios. |
No information available | |
|
Disaster Recovery RTO Recovery time objective for system restoration. |
No information available |
Client Communications
(9 Yes /9 Known /10 Possible features)
|
Client Portal Access Clients have secure access to custom portals for updates and documents. |
Enterprise clients may be offered secure client portals for report delivery and collaboration. | |
|
Automated Client Statements Ability to schedule and send statements to clients without manual intervention. |
Automated generation and delivery of client statements is provided. | |
|
Commentary & Insights Publishing Supports publishing manager commentary alongside client reports. |
Custom manager commentary, insights, and narratives are supported alongside reports. | |
|
Audit Trail for Client Interactions Tracks all communication and document exchanges with clients. |
Audit trail of client interactions possible with document logs and delivery tracking. | |
|
Document Library Centralized, searchable library of reports and communications. |
Central searchable document/report library is provided. | |
|
Custom Branding Reports and communications can be white-labeled for different clients. |
White-labeling and custom branding for reporting and communications available. | |
|
E-signature Integration Supports collection of electronic signatures when necessary. |
No information available | |
|
Real-time Alerts & Notifications Instant alerts via email, SMS, or app to clients. |
Configurable alerting modules include real-time email and app notifications for events. | |
|
Multilingual Client Materials Support for generating materials in multiple languages. |
Multilingual support for client materials is present via template and localization tools. | |
|
Secure File Transfer Securely send account information and reports directly to clients. |
Secure file transfer supported for client report delivery. |
Support & Vendor Strength
(7 Yes /7 Known /10 Possible features)
|
24/7 Technical Support Provides around-the-clock customer support and troubleshooting. |
Morningstar global support includes 24/7 technical customer service options for Direct clients. | |
|
Implementation Services Professional services for system setup and migration. |
Professional onboarding and implementation services available for institutional clients. | |
|
User Training Programs Offers comprehensive onboarding and advanced training for users. |
Comprehensive training, certifications, and live/on-demand courses offered. | |
|
Release Management Regular, predictable release cycles for new features and bug fixes. |
Regular product release cycles (monthly/quarterly) announced on client portal. | |
|
User Community Forums Vendor-maintained forums for user collaboration and support. |
User community forums and knowledgebase available via Morningstar Community. | |
|
Client Account Manager Dedicated relationship manager for enterprise accounts. |
Enterprise/Dedicated client account managers assigned for large clients. | |
|
Uptime Guarantee Percentage uptime as contractually promised. |
No information available | |
|
Bug Resolution SLA Average time to acknowledge/resolve critical issues. |
No information available | |
|
Third-party Integration Support Assistance with integrating the product with external tools. |
Support for integration with other industry systems/tools offered as part of institutional implementation. | |
|
Customer Satisfaction Score Average CSAT or NPS reported by clients. |
No information available |
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Data Integration & Quality
(8 Yes /8 Known /13 Possible features)
|
Multi-source Data Connectivity Ability to connect and synchronize with various financial data providers, custodians, and internal databases. |
Morningstar Direct connects to a global database of managed investments, securities, indexes, and market data; likely supports multi-source data connectivity. | |
|
Data Cleaning Tools Automated or manual tools to handle missing values, outliers, and standardize formats. |
Morningstar Direct includes data quality and cleansing tools as part of investment data management modules. | |
|
Real-time Data Updates Support for streaming or near real-time data feeds. |
Direct offers real-time or near real-time updates for securities and investment data feeds. | |
|
Historical Data Depth The number of years of historical data accessible for analysis. |
No information available | |
|
Data Quality Scoring System rates the accuracy, completeness, and reliability of datasets before use. |
No information available | |
|
Custom Data Import Ability for users to upload and map proprietary datasets. |
Users are able to upload and map proprietary portfolios and datasets in Direct. | |
|
Automated Data Mapping System auto-maps fields between source and destination datasets. |
Automated data mapping is supported when importing third-party portfolio and security data. | |
|
Data Lineage Tracking Tracks the origin and transformations of data (audit trail). |
No information available | |
|
Coverage Universe Number of asset classes, securities, or regions supported. |
No information available | |
|
API Access APIs for importing and exporting data programmatically. |
Direct provides API access for data extraction and integration. | |
|
Frequency of Data Refresh How often data can be refreshed or updated. |
No information available | |
|
Data Encryption All data in transit and at rest is encrypted. |
Data is encrypted both in transit and at rest according to industry practice and Morningstar's security documentation. | |
|
Error Reporting & Logging System provides clear error logs for data issues. |
Error reporting and data quality logs are mentioned in support documentation. |
Factor Modeling
(4 Yes /4 Known /13 Possible features)
|
Prebuilt Factor Libraries Comprehensive set of standard factors (e.g., size, value, quality, momentum). |
Direct includes libraries for typical equity factors such as value, size, quality, and momentum. | |
|
Custom Factor Creation Users can define new factors using formulas, custom data, or machine learning. |
Custom factor creation is documented in Direct, including formula-based custom factors. | |
|
Factor Backtesting Historical performance simulation of factors and strategies. |
Users can run historical performance simulation for factors and strategies (factor backtesting). | |
|
Factor Exposure Calculation Automated calculation of portfolio exposures to specific factors. |
Portfolio and security exposures to investor-defined and standard factors are calculated by the platform. | |
|
Multi-level Factor Hierarchies Supports grouping of factors into themes or higher-level categories. |
No information available | |
|
Factor Covariance Estimation Statistical estimation of relationships between factors. |
No information available | |
|
Time-varying Factor Models Allows for factor model parameters to adjust through time. |
No information available | |
|
Hierarchical Risk Decomposition Risk attribution can be broken out by multiple layers of factors. |
No information available | |
|
Regression Model Options Multiple regression and statistical model choices for factor estimation. |
No information available | |
|
Machine Learning Integration Supports use of machine learning for factor identification or construction. |
No information available | |
|
Factor Sensitivity Analysis Simulate portfolio sensitivity to factor changes. |
No information available | |
|
Persistent Beta Tracking Tracks and reports betas for factors and assets over time. |
No information available | |
|
Number of Supported Factors Maximum number of factors that can be included in a single model. |
No information available |
Portfolio Construction & Optimization
(10 Yes /10 Known /13 Possible features)
|
Multi-objective Optimization Supports optimization for multiple targets (e.g., maximize returns, minimize risk, optimize for specific factors). |
Morningstar Direct provides optimization objectives including maximizing return, minimizing risk, and factor targeting. | |
|
Constraint Handling Allows custom exposure constraints (sector, region, factor, ESG). |
Custom constraints on regions, sectors, factors, and ESG exposures can be defined in portfolio optimizations. | |
|
Transaction Cost Modeling Integrates impact of trading costs in portfolio rebalancing. |
No information available | |
|
Turnover Calculation Calculates expected or historical portfolio turnover rates. |
Turnover is a standard metric available in portfolio analysis and modeling modules. | |
|
Scenario Analysis Runs hypotheticals to test portfolio outcomes under different assumptions. |
Scenario analysis and hypotheticals are available in portfolio construction and analytics modules. | |
|
Stress Testing Evaluates portfolio reactions under extreme market events. |
Stress test tools are included, as per platform documentation. | |
|
Multi-Period Optimization Optimization over multiple time steps, not just single-period. |
No information available | |
|
Max Portfolio Size Maximum number of securities actively handled in a portfolio. |
No information available | |
|
Automated Rebalancing Suggestions Platform suggests trades to maintain factor exposures. |
Rebalancing suggestions are included with factor-oriented alerts and trade lists. | |
|
Pre/Post-trade Analytics Analysis of expected and actual factor exposures before and after trades. |
Pre- and post-trade analytics and factor exposures are visible in reporting/analysis modules. | |
|
Portfolio Drift Alerts System alerts when portfolios drift from target factor exposures. |
Drift alerts are configurable for portfolio factor and asset exposures. | |
|
Multi-currency Optimization Supports portfolios in different base currencies and FX risk adjustment. |
Support for multi-currency portfolios and FX adjustment referenced in documentation. | |
|
ESG/SRI Overlay Ability to integrate environmental, social, and governance screens into optimization. |
ESG/SRI overlays can be added in optimization in Direct's portfolio module. |
Risk Analytics & Attribution
(6 Yes /6 Known /12 Possible features)
|
Factor-based Risk Decomposition Breaks down total risk by component factors. |
Risk decomposition by factor, asset, and group is a core chart/table in risk analysis. | |
|
Value at Risk (VaR) and Expected Shortfall Calculation of factor or portfolio-level risk metrics. |
VaR, expected shortfall, and other portfolio-level risk stats available in risk and performance analytics. | |
|
Factor-Based Performance Attribution Attributing performance to factor exposures or timing. |
Direct provides factor- and asset-level performance attribution by default. | |
|
Relative vs. Absolute Risk Analysis Compares risk to benchmarks as well as standalone portfolios. |
Comparisons to benchmarks and absolute levels is a standard feature (relative/absolute risk). | |
|
Contribution to Risk (CTE/CTR) Provides % risk contribution by asset or factor. |
Contribution to risk (% by factor, asset) is included in reporting views. | |
|
Conditional Risk Analysis Risk analysis conditional on macroeconomic or market events. |
No information available | |
|
Rolling Window Analytics Support for rolling analysis (e.g., rolling beta, rolling risk). |
Rolling window (rolling beta, rolling risk) analytics supported in time-series analysis. | |
|
Risk Limits Monitoring Allows pre-set boundaries for factors or portfolio risk metrics. |
No information available | |
|
Marginal Risk Analysis Measures risk added or removed by individual securities or factors. |
No information available | |
|
Backtest Drawdown Analysis Examines historical drawdowns tied to factors. |
No information available | |
|
Time to Compute Risk Stats Time taken to run a full risk analysis report. |
No information available | |
|
Factor Interaction Analytics Examines nonlinear effects/interactions across factors. |
No information available |
Reporting & Visualization
(10 Yes /10 Known /11 Possible features)
|
Customizable Dashboards Configurable real-time dashboards showing factor, portfolio, and risk stats. |
Customizable dashboards and configurable widgets are highlighted platform features. | |
|
Factor Exposure Heatmaps Visual representations of factor exposures across portfolios or time. |
Direct has heatmap visualizations for factor exposures by portfolio and time. | |
|
Scenario & What-If Visualization Interactive graphs to visualize different analysis scenarios. |
Interactive scenario and what-if visualization is promoted as a feature. | |
|
Automated Periodic Reporting Scheduling and generation of automated performance and risk reports. |
Automated periodic reporting is supported by Direct's scheduled reporting modules. | |
|
Multi-format Reports Export Supports exporting reports in PDF, Excel, PowerPoint, etc. |
Direct enables report exports to PDF, Excel, PPT, and additional formats. | |
|
Ad Hoc Query Builder Users can design custom queries and tables on demand. |
Ad hoc report and query designers allow building custom tables and queries. | |
|
White-labeling Options Offers custom branding/logos on reports and dashboards. |
Enterprise version allows white-labeling for client/proprietary branding. | |
|
Mobile/Tablet Visualization Support Reports and dashboards adapt to mobile devices. |
Reports and dashboards are mobile/tablet responsive per Morningstar documentation. | |
|
Interactive Charting Tools Drill-down capability in visualizations for deeper insights. |
Interactive charting with drill-down is promoted in brochures and demo videos. | |
|
Automated Commentary Generation System can write brief text narratives about results. |
Direct can generate text commentary for report results, noted in marketing material. | |
|
Report Customization Time Average time to customize and create a new standard report. |
No information available |
Collaboration & Workflow
(4 Yes /4 Known /10 Possible features)
|
Role-based Access Controls Fine-grained permission system for users, teams, and departments. |
Enterprise/role-based access for users, teams, and clients supported. | |
|
Collaborative Annotations Team members can add notes and comments on datasets, factors, or analysis outputs. |
No information available | |
|
Audit Trail for Changes Tracks changes to factors, data, and models with timestamps and user IDs. |
Audit trails for changes on portfolios and models are referenced in compliance modules. | |
|
Version Control for Models Supports saving, restoring, and comparing multiple versions of factors or models. |
No information available | |
|
Approval Workflows Structured approval process for production usage or large changes. |
Approval workflows for model/policy or report publishing can be configured. | |
|
Comment Threading Organized comment histories on analyses or reports. |
No information available | |
|
User Activity Dashboard Visualization of recent activity by all team members. |
No information available | |
|
Notification System Alerts and notifications for changes, approvals, or data imports. |
No information available | |
|
Report Sharing/Publishing Easy mechanism to securely share insights within or outside organization. |
Reports and dashboards easily sharable or publishable within/outside org through platform tools. | |
|
Simultaneous Multi-user Editing Supports multiple users working in parallel on the same project. |
No information available |
Integration & APIs
(7 Yes /7 Known /10 Possible features)
|
RESTful API Endpoints Exposes platform data and analytics for external integration. |
RESTful APIs are listed as a key integration feature. | |
|
Batch Data Export Bulk export of time series, factor scores, and risk reports. |
Bulk export (batch) of time series, portfolios, and analytics is supported. | |
|
Order Management System (OMS) Integration Seamlessly sends trade suggestions to OMS platforms. |
OMS integration is available for seamless transmission of model trades. | |
|
Portfolio Management System (PMS) Integration Connects with PMS for real-time holdings and exposures. |
Integration with PMS is mentioned in Morningstar API and Direct documentation. | |
|
SFTP/FTP Support Bulk file transfer through secure FTP protocols. |
SFTP/FTP bulk file transfer is supported for uploads and downloads. | |
|
Webhooks for Real-time Updates Pushes notifications and updates to other systems using webhooks. |
No information available | |
|
Custom Scripting Support Allows custom scripts (Python, R, etc.) to automate workflows. |
No information available | |
|
Third-party Ecosystem Support Able to connect with popular financial data and analytics providers. |
Direct integrates data from third-party providers including market data, risk analytics, and ESG datasets. | |
|
API Rate Limits Maximum calls per second for stable operation. |
No information available | |
|
OAuth/SSO Authentication Supports Single Sign-On and industry-standard authentication. |
OAuth, SSO (Okta, Azure AD, etc.) included for authentication and access. |
User Interface & Usability
(6 Yes /6 Known /10 Possible features)
|
Intuitive Navigation Logical layout reduces clicks and speeds up workflows. |
The platform interface is known for logical, workflow-based design and high usability. | |
|
Multi-language Support Interface is available in multiple languages. |
Available in multiple languages as per international user guides. | |
|
Accessibility Features Support for visually impaired users (high contrast, screen readers, keyboard navigation). |
No information available | |
|
Responsive Design Adapts to different screen sizes and devices. |
Responsive interface; adapts to desktop, tablet, and mobile. | |
|
Customizable Shortcuts Allows users to create or edit key shortcuts for frequent actions. |
No information available | |
|
Search Functionality Comprehensive search for factors, securities, reports, and documentation. |
Comprehensive search across securities, factors, and documentation available. | |
|
Step-by-step Wizards Guided workflows for complex processes. |
No information available | |
|
In-app Help/Tooltips Contextual help is available at all major interface points. |
Contextual in-app help/tooltips available throughout the interface. | |
|
Load Time for Major Screens Average load time for analytics dashboard or factor model screens. |
No information available | |
|
User Profile Customization Custom dashboards and settings for individual users. |
User dashboards, saved views, and preferences are customizable. |
Security & Compliance
(6 Yes /6 Known /10 Possible features)
|
Role-based Access Control Granular permissions for users, admins, and external users. |
Granular, role-based access is supported for compliance and client data segregation. | |
|
Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) Optional or required multi-factor authentication for enhanced login security. |
SSO and two-factor authentication are available for enterprise logins. | |
|
Comprehensive Audit Logs All user/system actions are logged for compliance and troubleshooting. |
Comprehensive audit logging for all activity; compliant with industry standards. | |
|
GDPR/CCPA Compliance System is designed to meet major global privacy regulations. |
Designed to meet GDPR and similar regulations as described in compliance statements. | |
|
Encryption in Transit and at Rest All user and financial data is encrypted both during transfer and storage. |
Encryption is mandated for all data in transit and at rest by Morningstar's policies. | |
|
Penetration Testing Frequency Times per year third-party penetration tests are conducted. |
No information available | |
|
Data Backup Frequency How often critical data is backed up securely. |
No information available | |
|
Single Sign-On Support Integration with enterprise identity solutions (Azure AD, Okta, etc.). |
Supports SSO with major identity providers. | |
|
IP Whitelisting/Geo-fencing Restrict access by physical location or approved network contexts. |
No information available | |
|
Automated Threat Detection Detection and alerts for suspicious user/system activity. |
No information available |
Performance & Scalability
(0 Yes /0 Known /10 Possible features)
|
Concurrent User Capacity The maximum number of concurrent users supported with no performance degradation. |
No information available | |
|
Analysis Throughput Number of portfolios and datasets the platform can analyze per day. |
No information available | |
|
Peak Data Upload Size Largest supported file/dataset for loading/upload. |
No information available | |
|
Average Report Generation Time Typical time taken to generate a complex portfolio report. |
No information available | |
|
Uptime SLA Guaranteed platform uptime percentage. |
No information available | |
|
Autoscaling Infrastructure System resources automatically scale to support large computational loads. |
No information available | |
|
Batch Processing Support Handles bulk analysis jobs without user intervention. |
No information available | |
|
Geographically Redundant Hosting System is deployed in multiple data centers to minimize downtime. |
No information available | |
|
Cloud/On-premise Deployment Options Flexible hosting for large/sensitive clients. |
No information available | |
|
Parallel Model Runs Number of concurrent factor models that may be run in parallel. |
No information available |
Support & Training
(7 Yes /7 Known /10 Possible features)
|
24/7 Customer Support Live technical and product support always available. |
No information available | |
|
Dedicated Account Manager Named primary contact for large clients or key accounts. |
No information available | |
|
Extensive Documentation Detailed user manual, API docs, and frequently asked questions. |
Morningstar Direct has extensive documentation, API guides, and FAQ. | |
|
Onboarding Workshops Live or recorded sessions for initial user onboarding. |
Onboarding workshops for new users are provided as part of client enablement. | |
|
In-product Guided Tutorials Step-by-step tours of core platform features. |
In-platform guided tutorials and walk-throughs are available. | |
|
Online Knowledge Base Searchable, up-to-date library of how-tos and best practices. |
Online help, knowledge base, and search for best practices are offered. | |
|
Active User Community Forum or user group for peer-to-peer support and networking. |
Active user group/forum is provided for Direct users; peer support is documented. | |
|
Training Certification Programs Users can earn certificates in platform proficiency. |
Morningstar runs user certification and training for Direct. | |
|
Average Response Time Median time to initial response for support cases. |
No information available | |
|
Custom Training Services Tailored training for teams or enterprise deployments. |
Custom training for enterprise/large clients is available on request. |
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Asset Class Coverage
(8 Yes /9 Known /10 Possible features)
|
Equity Asset Support Ability to support stocks, ETFs, and equity-based instruments. |
Supports comprehensive equity/fund, ETF, and security coverage as core database features. Stated in general materials and product URL. | |
|
Fixed Income Asset Support Supports government bonds, corporate bonds, and other fixed income instruments. |
Supports fixed income analytics and bond universes, as seen in materials and portfolio analysis modules. | |
|
Commodity Asset Support Support for commodity markets such as metals, energy, and agriculture. |
Not as far as we are aware.* Limited/indirect commodity support; not a primary focus according to product documentation. | |
|
Derivative Products Support Ability to handle options, futures, swaps, and other derivatives. |
Derivatives (e.g., index options, swaps) included via major fund holdings and index analytics. | |
|
Private Assets Support Includes support for private equity, private debt, and real estate. |
Private asset and real estate data available, based on alternative investments datasets. | |
|
Alternative Investments Coverage Support for hedge funds, structured products, and other alternatives. |
Morningstar Direct includes data for hedge funds and alternative asset funds. | |
|
Cryptoassets Support Ability to handle cryptocurrencies and digital assets. |
Morningstar Direct supports cryptocurrency fund data and related digital assets coverage. | |
|
Multi-currency Capability Handles transactions and valuations across multiple currencies. |
Handles multi-currency transactions, reporting, and benchmarks; essential for global fund universe. | |
|
Geographical Market Coverage Provides access to developed and emerging market assets. |
Global coverage mentioned on product site: includes developed and emerging markets. | |
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Custom Asset Classes Ability to define, model, and integrate custom or new asset classes quickly. |
No information available |
Portfolio Construction & Optimization
(8 Yes /8 Known /10 Possible features)
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Model Portfolio Capabilities Creation and management of model portfolios for strategy replication and comparison. |
Model portfolio functionality directly promoted by Morningstar in the platform overview. | |
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Strategic and Tactical Asset Allocation Tools Enables both long-term (strategic) and short-term (tactical) allocation modeling. |
Includes strategic and tactical asset allocation tools as advertised. | |
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Optimization Algorithms Availability of mean-variance, risk parity, Black-Litterman, and other optimization techniques. |
Optimization (mean-variance, Black-Litterman, risk parity) supported in portfolio construction tools. | |
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Constraint Management Ability to set and handle investment constraints such as ESG, liquidity, or regulatory limits. |
Constraints by asset type, region, ESG, etc. can be applied during optimization. | |
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Transaction Cost Modeling Includes modeling and minimizing transaction costs during optimization. |
Transaction cost models are available in optimization settings. | |
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Scenario Analysis Ability to test portfolio impacts of macro and microeconomic scenarios. |
Scenario analysis included for macro and market shocks in portfolios. | |
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Multi-period Optimization Supports optimization and planning over multiple periods/horizons. |
No information available | |
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Automated Rebalancing System can automatically generate or recommend rebalance trades. |
Automated and rule-based rebalancing tools are available for model portfolios. | |
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Customizable Investment Rules User can define portfolio rules for construction and performance monitoring. |
User-defined investment rules and guidelines are supported. | |
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Optimization Speed Speed to run a portfolio optimization calculation. |
No information available |
Risk Management and Analytics
(6 Yes /6 Known /10 Possible features)
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Value-at-Risk (VaR) Calculation Implementation of VaR and other tail-risk measurements. |
Value-at-Risk and tail risk measures found in risk analytics modules. | |
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Stress Testing Facilities to run stress scenarios and shocks (historical or custom). |
Stress testing available for both historical and custom scenarios. | |
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Factor-Based Risk Analysis Analyses portfolio exposures to key underlying factors (e.g., style, macro, sector). |
Portfolio-level factor exposures (style, sector, macro) are supported. | |
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Liquidity Risk Assessment Tooling to identify and monitor liquidity risk at instrument and portfolio level. |
Liquidity risk metrics shown for instruments and portfolios. | |
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Counterparty and Credit Risk Monitoring Tools to assess exposures and risk to trading counterparties. |
No information available | |
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Sensitivity Analysis (Greeks) Support for option sensitivity analysis (delta, gamma, vega, etc.). |
No information available | |
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Limit Monitoring and Alerts Ability to define and monitor risk limits, with real-time alerting. |
Users can set and monitor risk limits with alerting, per platform specifications. | |
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Portfolio Risk Attribution Details the sources of risk contribution in the portfolio. |
Direct risk attribution functionality in Morningstar Direct. | |
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Scenario Calculation Speed Time taken to run a risk scenario on the full portfolio. |
No information available | |
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Coverage of Risk Models Number of risk models/frameworks available in-system. |
No information available |
Performance Measurement & Attribution
(8 Yes /8 Known /10 Possible features)
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Time-Weighted Returns Calculation Support for GIPS-compliant time-weighted return methodologies. |
GIPS-compliant time-weighted returns calculation is a foundational reporting feature. | |
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Money-Weighted Returns Calculation Calculates internal rate of return (IRR), useful for private assets and illiquid investments. |
IRR/money-weighted returns analytics available for illiquid and private investments. | |
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Attribution by Asset Class Ability to decompose performance by asset class (e.g., sector, security, factor level). |
Performance attribution by asset class and decompositions offered in platform. | |
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Multi-Currency Performance Decomposition of returns by currency source and FX effects. |
Multi-currency performance tracking and FX attribution is standard. | |
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Custom Benchmark Comparison Ability to compare against custom or blended benchmarks. |
Customizable benchmarks and blends supported. | |
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Peer Group Comparison Compares performance versus peer portfolios or funds. |
Peer group comparison central to Morningstar Direct's analytics. | |
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Gross/Net of Fees Performance Tracks and reports both gross and net of management/performance fees. |
Gross/net of fees reporting available for funds and model portfolios. | |
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Drill-down & Attribution Hierarchy Deep performance attribution down to security or custom groupings. |
Drill-down and attribution to security and sector levels featured in platform. | |
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Performance Reporting Speed Speed to generate full performance reports. |
No information available | |
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Number of Attribution Models Supported Total different performance attribution methodologies available. |
No information available |
Data Management & Input Integration
(7 Yes /7 Known /10 Possible features)
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Market Data Integration Integration with real-time and historical market data providers. |
Market data integration across global exchanges and data providers is core. | |
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Reference Data Management Instrument, legal entity, benchmark, and hierarchies management in-system. |
Reference data (instruments, benchmarks, hierarchies) is managed in the system. | |
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API Connectivity APIs for ingesting, updating, and extracting portfolio and pricing data. |
APIs available for data ingestion and extraction (REST APIs listed on documentation). | |
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Automated Data Validation Automated checks for outliers, stale prices, or data consistency errors. |
Automated validation, outlier, and error checks are part of import workflow. | |
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Third-Party System Integration Ability to plug-and-play with OMS, EMS, trading, and accounting systems. |
Third-party integration with order management, trading, and accounting systems is referenced. | |
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Custom Data Fields User-defined data enrichment and tagging in platform. |
Custom data tagging and enrichment options are supported. | |
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ESG/Alternative Data Integration Integration with alternative and ESG data sets. |
ESG and alternative datasets are integrated: strong selling point per product URL. | |
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Latency of Core Data Updates Time lags for refreshing market/pricing data. |
No information available | |
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Data Sources Supported Distinct supported feeds and vendors for market/reference data. |
No information available | |
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Data Retention Period How long historical data is retained and available for analysis. |
No information available |
Regulatory and Compliance Tools
(5 Yes /5 Known /10 Possible features)
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Pre-Trade Compliance Checks Automated checks to prevent violations of investment guidelines. |
Pre-trade compliance checks are embedded for fund and portfolio rules validation. | |
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Post-Trade Surveillance Continuous monitoring for breaches and exceptions post-execution. |
Post-trade surveillance and exception monitoring available for portfolios. | |
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Audit Trail & Logging System logs all changes, access, and decision processes. |
Comprehensive audit trail for data, action, and changes, as referenced by documentation. | |
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Regulatory Reporting Suite Automated production of statutory and regulatory filings. |
Regulatory reporting features exist for global and local regulatory regimes. | |
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Rule-Based Controls Configuration Users can easily implement new rules and regulatory changes. |
Rule-based controls readily customizable—highlighted in user guides. | |
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Restricted List Monitoring Manages security or issuer restrictions due to regulation or policy. |
No information available | |
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Insider Trading Surveillance Helps identify trades that may breach insider trading rules. |
No information available | |
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Exception Management Workflow Manages override, approvals and follow-up for breaches. |
No information available | |
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Compliance Rule Library Size Total number of built-in regulatory rule templates. |
No information available | |
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Compliance Check Speed Speed to evaluate and confirm compliance per proposed trade. |
No information available |
User Access, Workflow & Collaboration
(6 Yes /6 Known /10 Possible features)
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Role-based Access Control Supports different user roles and granular permissions. |
Supports granular role-based permissions for user/groups. | |
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Multi-user Collaboration Allows multiple users to view, comment, or edit portfolios and strategies. |
Multi-user, team-based collaboration and shared access are mentioned in Direct documentation. | |
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Task Assignment and Workflow Automation Assign workflow tasks and automate routine steps (e.g. approval, review). |
No information available | |
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Audit and Activity Monitoring Tracks all user and system activity for monitoring and compliance. |
Tracks all logins/actions for compliance and workflow monitoring. | |
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Customizable Dashboards Personalized dashboards for users or teams. |
Customizable dashboards are key UI components as per platform walkthroughs. | |
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Team Chat and Notifications Built-in messaging and alerting for collaboration on portfolios and trades. |
In-app notifications and team alerts are present; team chat function is more limited/integrated. | |
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Approval Workflows Enforces multi-stage sign-off processes for proposed actions. |
Approval workflows are supported for model approval and review processes. | |
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Concurrent User Limit Number of users that can access the system simultaneously. |
No information available | |
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User Provisioning Speed Time needed to provision or deprovision a user account. |
No information available | |
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Custom Workflow Templates Templates for commonly used workflow processes. |
No information available |
Reporting & Client Communication
(9 Yes /9 Known /10 Possible features)
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Custom Report Builder Allows users to design and generate bespoke reports. |
Custom report designer/builder is a core feature. | |
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Scheduled and Automated Report Distribution Automates report sending to clients, regulators, or internal teams. |
Automated/scheduled report distribution is available from the reporting section. | |
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Document Management System Stores and organizes reports, commentary, and client communications. |
Document storage and management (including commentary) is present. | |
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Client Portal Access Clients can log in and securely view their portfolio reports. |
Client portal for secure portfolio review is part of offering. | |
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Multi-language Reporting Ability to produce reports in multiple languages for global clients. |
Multilingual report output is available for global users. | |
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Interactive Dashboards for Clients Visualizations and interactive dashboards for client review. |
Interactive dashboard and visualization suite present for client and adviser review. | |
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Data Export Options Export reporting data in CSV, PDF, XLSX, JSON and more. |
Data export options include CSV, PDF, XLSX; JSON via API. | |
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White-label Branding Branding customization for client-facing materials. |
Brand and logoing options for client-facing outputs are offered. | |
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Real-time Access to Reports Clients and users can access up-to-date reports without delay. |
Web-based with real-time report and dashboard updates. | |
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Report Generation Speed Amount of time to generate a standard report set. |
No information available |
Integration & Extensibility
(6 Yes /6 Known /10 Possible features)
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Open APIs Well-documented RESTful APIs for integration with external tools. |
RESTful APIs documented for integration (see developer resources). | |
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Plug-ins and Add-ons Support for third-party plug-ins and custom-built enhancements. |
Marketplace for plug-ins/add-ons is referenced in documentation. | |
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Data Import/Export Connectors Pre-built connectors for major OMS, EMS, data vendors, and custodians. |
Connectors exist for major external data, custodians, and OMS/EMS. | |
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Custom Scripting/Formula Language Support for custom formulae, rules, or scripting for advanced users. |
No information available | |
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Event Webhooks Offers event-driven integration with real-time notification webhooks. |
No information available | |
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Cloud Service Integration Native support for cloud storage, compute, or SaaS integrations (e.g., Azure, AWS, Google). |
Native integration with AWS/Azure/cloud storages mentioned. | |
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Single Sign-On (SSO) Integrated authentication via SSO solutions (OAuth2, SAML, etc.). |
SSO support available (SAML/OAuth integration referenced). | |
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API Rate Limit Maximum number of API requests permitted per minute/hour. |
No information available | |
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Number of Standard Integrations Pre-built integrations available out-of-the-box. |
No information available | |
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Sandbox/Development Environment Availability of a dev/test environment for integration and testing. |
Test/sandbox environments are made available for integration and piloting. |
Security & Infrastructure
(8 Yes /8 Known /10 Possible features)
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Data Encryption at Rest All at-rest data is encrypted using industry standards. |
All at-rest data encrypted (see Morningstar security and compliance policy). | |
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Data Encryption in Transit All data transmitted between components or users is encrypted (e.g., TLS/SSL). |
TLS/SSL for all in-transit data, as per security specifications. | |
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Multi-factor Authentication Supports MFA for increased system and data security. |
Supports MFA/2FA for administration and user login. | |
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Granular Permission Controls Fine-grained controls at user, group, and data levels. |
Granular user/group/data permission structure outlined in documentation. | |
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Penetration Testing and Vulnerability Management Regular, independent pen testing and active vulnerability patching. |
Regular third-party penetration testing; patching and vulnerability management reported. | |
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Disaster Recovery and Business Continuity Robust DR/BCP processes with regular backup and failover testing. |
Disaster recovery and business continuity protocols published by Morningstar. | |
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Audit Logs and Forensics Comprehensive, tamper-evident logging for forensics and compliance. |
Audit log and forensics tools available for compliance team access. | |
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Cloud/On-Prem Deployment Options Ability to deploy platform on cloud, on-premises, or hybrid environments. |
Available as SaaS (cloud) and on-prem deployment per client needs. | |
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System Availability SLA Guaranteed system uptime via SLA. |
No information available | |
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Maximum Concurrent Users Supported Upper cap on number of simultaneous users. |
No information available |
Support, Training & Documentation
(7 Yes /7 Known /10 Possible features)
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24/7 Support Availability Round-the-clock live support via chat, email or phone. |
Morningstar Direct offers 24/7 global support. | |
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Dedicated Account Manager Dedicated point of contact for relationship management. |
Clients receive a dedicated account manager. | |
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Onboarding and Implementation Services Expert support throughout initial onboarding and configuration. |
Full onboarding, training, and implementation included for clients. | |
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Online User Community Access to a user forum or community for best practices and troubleshooting. |
Online user community, forums, and FAQ support available. | |
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User Training Programs Formal, regular user training sessions (live or recorded). |
Live and recorded user training programs offered. | |
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Contextual Help and Guided Tutorials Inline instructions, tooltips, and guided walkthroughs. |
Inline help, tooltips, and guided tutorials present for most platform areas. | |
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Comprehensive API Documentation API reference, code samples and use-case examples. |
Comprehensive API (and general user) documentation available on support portal. | |
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Documentation Language Support Number of languages documentation is published in. |
No information available | |
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Average Support Response Time Mean time to first response from support team. |
No information available | |
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User Satisfaction Score Average user/customer satisfaction rating. |
No information available |
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