J.P. Morgan raises PT on Moelis following accelerated M&A activity

** J.P. Morgan raises PT on investment bank Moelis MC to $78 from $71; retains "hold" rating

** Shares of MC up 0.5% at $69.01 in low volumes premarket

** Brokerage updates its model following a strong quarter, buoyed by accelerated deal activity in the form of M&A and IPOs following Liberation Day-induced market volatility

** J.P. Morgan forecasts strong earnings growth into FY27 due to confidence in sustained earnings growth and margin expansion

** Two of the eight analysts covering the stock have a "buy" or higher rating, and four "hold", and two "sell"; median PT is $78 - data compiled by LSEG

** As of last close, MC shares down 7% YTD