Volatility in the financial markets propelled its trading business, boosting its bottom line.

The US elections and the release of coronavirus vaccines fuel those trading volumes, Like its rival, Goldman Sachs, Morgan Stanley also benefitted from heightened activity in mergers and acquisitions transactions and underwriting I pose That lifted its investment banking revenue 46%.

Goldman's profit also dwarfed Wall Street estimates, but its executives warned that capital markets activity will probably slow down.

Morgan Stanley CEO James Gorman has been taking steps to reduce the banks reliance on trading Under his leadership, the company bought Eaton, Vance and E Trade to bolster its investment management and broking businesses.

The company confirmed plans to buy back $10 billion of its shares this year.

It shares, which have already jumped more than 9% this year, gained further ground in early trading Wednesday.