Does anyone still hand spread research?

Recently sat across from MS on a deal and they had a benchmarking software which laid out line items broker by broker. Unfortunately I work at a bank that still has us hand spreading research. Anyone familiar with these tools / know the name of the software MS uses?

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Based on the most helpful WSO content, hand spreading research is still practiced in some firms, especially for accuracy and educational purposes. However, many banks and analysts are transitioning to tools like CapIQ (Capital IQ) and FactSet for efficiency. These tools allow users to pull data directly from filings and audit the sources, saving significant time compared to manual processes.

Regarding Morgan Stanley's benchmarking software, while the exact name isn't mentioned in the WSO threads, tools like CapIQ, FactSet, and BamSEC are commonly used for such purposes. BamSEC, for instance, is highlighted as an excellent tool for browsing filings, even without a paid subscription. If you're looking for alternatives or upgrades, these tools might be worth exploring.

Sources: Spreading Comps - Hand spread vs. CapIQ Spread?, https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/consulting/any-advice-on-tools-for-researching-info-collection-distilling-reports-managing?customgpt=1, Tools of the Trade: Pro Tips, What kind of tools / apps do you wish existed in the industry?, What are your IB cheat codes?

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By research you mean projections? Nah I use CIQ or Refinitiv or visible alpha. I only hand spread historical or thinly covered stocks or certain segment level detail during divestitures or something

 

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