Jefferies Raises MSC Industrial Direct (MSM) Price Target to $135

On October 23, 2026, Jefferies adjusted its outlook on MSC Industrial Direct Co., Inc. (NYSE:MSM), raising its price target for the industrial distributor to $135.00 from $130.00 while keeping a Buy rating on the shares. The stock closed at $113.86 on the day of the announcement.

MSM MSC Industrial Direct Co., Inc.

$112.43 ▲ +34.60% year to date

1M 3M YTD

Daily close · Oct 22, 2026

Jefferies's Call on MSC Industrial Direct

The research note from Jefferies reflects a positive forward-looking stance on the company, moving the target higher from its previous level of $130.00. Other firms also updated their views on October 23, 2026, with Keybanc maintaining an Overweight rating while adjusting its price target from $145.00 to $140.00, and Stephens & Co. lifting its target to $135.00 from $130.00 while keeping an Overweight rating. Earlier in the cycle, Barclays initiated coverage with an Overweight rating and a $152.00 target on October 13, 2026, and Rothschild & Co initiated a Buy rating with a $155.00 target on July 13, 2026. Across eight analyst opinions, the stock carries a hold consensus and a mean price target of $133.75.

Other Institutional Activity in MSC Industrial Direct

Institutional investors adjusted their holdings ahead of the fall period. Fuller & Thaler Asset Management Inc. grew its holdings by 101,781 shares, ending with 1,887,419 shares worth about $214,901,528.00 in the report dated June 30, 2026. American Century Companies Inc reduced its stake by 869,104 shares, leaving it with 1,743,956 shares valued near $198,566,831.00. Boston Partners expanded its position by 53,964 shares to hold 1,714,389 shares worth approximately $195,200,332.00. First Trust Advisors LP trimmed its holdings by 96,282 shares, concluding the period with 1,676,859 shares valued at $190,927,166.00.

MSC Industrial Direct Co., Inc. Stock Down 15.4%

The shares recently traded at $112.43 on October 23, 2026, sitting below the session close of $113.86. The equity has moved between a 52-week low of $78.80 and a 52-week high of $133.95.

Recent Earnings

The company generated $4,009,702,912.00 in revenue over the trailing twelve months, producing $3.98 in earnings per share. Profitability metrics show a net margin of 5.6% and a return on equity of 15.6%. The next quarterly financial update is scheduled for release on January 6, 2027.

Dividend

Investors receive an annual dividend rate of $3.56 per share, translating to a dividend yield of 3.17%. The payout ratio stands at 83.6% of earnings.

Insider Buying and Selling at MSC Industrial Direct Co., Inc.

Insider transactions included multiple trades over the past year. Director Philip R Peller bought 6,666 shares at $90.14 apiece on November 13, 2025, for a total of $600,873.00. Director Mitchell Lawrence Jacobson acquired 22,870 shares at $84.96 each on November 18, 2025, totaling $1,943,037.00. Director Rudina Seseri sold 1,800 shares at an average price of $86.83 on February 2, 2026, worth $156,294.00. Most recently, Director Reuben E Slone bought 433 shares at $115.77 on October 23, 2026, for $50,129.15.

About MSC Industrial Direct

Headquartered in Melville, New York, MSC Industrial Direct Co., Inc. distributes metalworking, maintenance, repair, and operations products. The firm serves industrial customers across North America and Europe, supplying tools and operational supplies essential for manufacturing and facility upkeep.

Bottom Line

Jefferies's upward revision highlights shifting expectations as the market looks ahead to the company's next earnings report on January 6, 2027. Investors will monitor whether demand in the industrial distribution sector supports these higher valuation targets.