MOODYS CORP /DE/, 10-K filed on 2/14/2024
Annual Report
v3.24.0.1
Cover Page - USD ($)
shares in Millions, $ in Billions
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Jan. 31, 2024
Jun. 30, 2023
Entity Information [Line Items]      
Document Type 10-K    
Document Annual Report true    
Document Period End Date Dec. 31, 2023    
Current Fiscal Year End Date --12-31    
Document Transition Report false    
Entity File Number 1-14037    
Entity Registrant Name MOODY’S CORPORATION    
Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code DE    
Entity Tax Identification Number 13-3998945    
Entity Address, Address Line One 7 World Trade Center at 250 Greenwich Street    
Entity Address, City or Town New York    
Entity Address, State or Province NY    
Entity Address, Postal Zip Code 10007    
City Area Code 212    
Local Phone Number 553-0300    
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer Yes    
Entity Voluntary Filers No    
Entity Current Reporting Status Yes    
Entity Interactive Data Current Yes    
Entity Filer Category Large Accelerated Filer    
Entity Small Business false    
Entity Emerging Growth Company false    
ICFR Auditor Attestation Flag true    
Document Financial Statement Error Correction [Flag] false    
Entity Shell Company false    
Entity Public Float     $ 64
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding (in shares)   182.5  
Documents Incorporated by Reference Portions of the Registrant’s definitive proxy statement for use in connection with its annual meeting of stockholders scheduled to be held on April 16, 2024, are incorporated by reference into Part III of this Form 10-K.    
Entity Central Index Key 0001059556    
Document Fiscal Period Focus FY    
Amendment Flag false    
Document Fiscal Year Focus 2023    
Common Stock, par value $0.01 per share      
Entity Information [Line Items]      
Title of 12(b) Security Common Stock, par value $0.01 per share    
Trading Symbol MCO    
Security Exchange Name NYSE    
1.75% 2015 Senior Notes, due 2027      
Entity Information [Line Items]      
Title of 12(b) Security 1.75% Senior Notes Due 2027    
Trading Symbol MCO 27    
Security Exchange Name NYSE    
0.950% 2019 Senior Notes, due 2030      
Entity Information [Line Items]      
Title of 12(b) Security 0.950% Senior Notes Due 2030    
Trading Symbol MCO 30    
Security Exchange Name NYSE    
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Audit Information
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Audit Information [Abstract]  
Auditor Name KPMG LLP
Auditor Location New York, NY
Auditor Firm ID 185
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CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS - USD ($)
shares in Millions, $ in Millions
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Dec. 31, 2021
Income Statement [Abstract]      
Revenue $ 5,916 $ 5,468 $ 6,218
Expenses      
Operating 1,687 1,613 1,637
Selling, general and administrative 1,632 1,527 1,480
Depreciation and amortization 373 331 257
Restructuring 87 114 0
Total expenses 3,779 3,585 3,374
Operating income 2,137 1,883 2,844
Non-operating (expense) income, net      
Interest expense, net (251) (231) (171)
Other non-operating income, net 49 38 82
Gain on extinguishment of debt 0 70 0
Non-operating (expense) income, net (202) (123) (89)
Income before provision for income taxes 1,935 1,760 2,755
Provision for income taxes 327 386 541
Net income 1,608 1,374 2,214
Less: Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests 1 0 0
Net income attributable to Moody’s $ 1,607 $ 1,374 $ 2,214
Earnings per share      
Basic (in USD per share) $ 8.77 $ 7.47 $ 11.88
Diluted (in USD per share) $ 8.73 $ 7.44 $ 11.78
Weighted average shares outstanding      
Basic (in shares) 183.2 183.9 186.4
Diluted (in shares) 184.0 184.7 187.9
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CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME - USD ($)
$ in Millions
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Dec. 31, 2021
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]      
Net income $ 1,608 $ 1,374 $ 2,214
Foreign Currency Adjustments:      
Foreign currency translation adjustment - Pre Tax 213 (439) (303)
Foreign currency translation adjustment - Tax (1) 2 11
Foreign currency translation adjustment - Net of Tax 212 (437) (292)
Foreign currency translation adjustments - reclassification of losses included in net income - Pre Tax 0 20 0
Foreign currency translation adjustments - reclassification of losses included in net income - Tax 0 0 0
Foreign currency translation adjustments - reclassification of losses included in net income - Net of Tax 0 20 0
Net (losses) gains on net investment hedges - Pre Tax (177) 219 319
Net (losses) gains on net investment hedges - Tax 45 (55) (77)
Net (losses) gains on net investment hedges - Net of Tax (132) 164 242
Net investment hedges - reclassification of gains included in net income - Pre Tax 0 0 (2)
Net investment hedges - reclassification of gains included in net income - Tax 0 0 1
Net investment hedges - reclassification of gains included in net income - Net of Tax 0 0 (1)
Cash Flow Hedges:      
Reclassification of losses included in net income - Pre Tax 2 2 2
Reclassification of losses included in net income - Tax (1) 0 0
Reclassification of losses included in net income - Net of Tax 1 2 2
Pension and Other Retirement Benefits:      
Amortization of actuarial losses/prior service costs and settlement charge included in net income - Pre Tax (3) 3 19
Amortization of actuarial losses and prior service costs and settlement charge included in net income - Tax 0 (1) (5)
Amortization of actuarial losses and prior service costs and settlement charge included in net income - Net of Tax (3) 2 14
Net actuarial (losses) gains and prior service costs - Pre Tax (8) (1) 73
Net actuarial (losses) gains and prior service costs - Tax 2 1 (18)
Net actuarial (losses) gains and prior service costs - Net of Tax (6) 0 55
Total other comprehensive (loss) income - Pre Tax 27 (196) 108
Total other comprehensive (loss)income - Tax 45 (53) (88)
Total Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) 72 (249) 20
Comprehensive Income 1,680 1,125 2,234
Less: comprehensive loss attributable to noncontrolling interests (4) (16) (2)
Comprehensive Income Attributable to Moody’s $ 1,684 $ 1,141 $ 2,236
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CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS - USD ($)
$ in Millions
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Current assets:    
Cash and cash equivalents $ 2,130 $ 1,769
Short-term investments 63 90
Accounts receivable, net of allowances for credit losses of $35 in 2023 and $40 in 2022 1,659 1,652
Other current assets 489 583
Total current assets 4,341 4,094
Property and equipment, net of accumulated depreciation of $1,272 in 2023 and $1,123 in 2022 603 502
Operating lease right-of-use assets 277 346
Goodwill 5,956 5,839
Intangible assets, net 2,049 2,210
Deferred tax assets, net 258 266
Other assets 1,138 1,092
Total assets 14,622 14,349
Current liabilities:    
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities 1,076 1,011
Current portion of operating lease liabilities 108 106
Deferred revenue 1,316 1,258
Total current liabilities 2,500 2,375
Non-current portion of deferred revenue 65 75
Total long-term debt 7,001 7,389
Deferred tax liabilities, net 402 457
Uncertain tax positions 196 322
Operating lease liabilities 306 368
Other liabilities 676 674
Total liabilities 11,146 11,660
Contingencies
Shareholders’ equity:    
Preferred stock, par value $.01 per share; 10,000,000 shares authorized; no shares issued and outstanding 0 0
Capital surplus 1,228 1,054
Retained earnings 14,659 13,618
Treasury stock, at cost; 160,430,754 and 159,702,362 shares of common stock at December 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022, respectively (12,005) (11,513)
Accumulated other comprehensive loss (567) (643)
Total Moody’s shareholders’ equity 3,318 2,519
Noncontrolling interests 158 170
Total shareholders’ equity 3,476 2,689
Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity 14,622 14,349
Series Common Stock    
Shareholders’ equity:    
Common stock 0 0
Non-Series Common Stock    
Shareholders’ equity:    
Common stock $ 3 $ 3
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CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (Parenthetical) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Accounts receivable, allowances $ 35 $ 40
Property and equipment, accumulated depreciation $ 1,272 $ 1,123
Preferred stock, par value (in usd per share) $ 0.01 $ 0.01
Preferred stock, shares authorized (in shares) 10,000,000 10,000,000
Preferred stock, shares issued (in shares) 0 0
Preferred stock, shares outstanding (in shares) 0 0
Common stock, par value (in usd per share) $ 0.01 $ 0.01
Common stock, shares authorized (in shares) 1,000,000,000 1,000,000,000
Common stock, shares issued (in shares) 342,902,272 342,902,272
Treasury stock, shares (in shares) 160,430,754 159,702,362
Series Common Stock    
Common stock, par value (in usd per share) $ 0.01 $ 0.01
Common stock, shares authorized (in shares) 10,000,000 10,000,000
Common stock, shares issued (in shares) 0 0
Common stock, shares outstanding (in shares) 0 0
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CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS - USD ($)
$ in Millions
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Dec. 31, 2021
Cash flows from operating activities      
Net income $ 1,608 $ 1,374 $ 2,214
Reconciliation of net income to net cash provided by operating activities:      
Depreciation and amortization 373 331 257
Stock-based compensation 193 169 175
Deferred income taxes (38) 48 (218)
Provision for credit losses on accounts receivable 22 25 13
ROU Asset impairment & other non-cash restructuring/impairment charges 35 29 0
FX translation losses reclassified to net income 0 20 0
(Gain)/loss on extinguishment of debt 0 (70)  
(Gain)/loss on extinguishment of debt     13
Gain on sale/non-cash exchange of investments in non-consolidated affiliates (4) 0 (36)
Changes in assets and liabilities:      
Accounts receivable (12) 9 (270)
Other current assets 119 (223) (12)
Other assets (69) (48) (26)
Lease obligations (26) (19) (11)
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities 76 (161) 80
Deferred revenue 24 20 65
Unrecognized tax positions and other non-current tax liabilities (129) (33) (184)
Other liabilities (21) 3 (55)
Net cash provided by operating activities 2,151 1,474 2,005
Cash flows from investing activities      
Capital additions (271) (283) (139)
Purchases of investments (143) (246) (171)
Sales and maturities of investments 162 216 145
Purchases of investments in non-consolidated affiliates (5) (74) (266)
Sales of investments in non-consolidated affiliates 13 2 2
Cash paid for acquisitions, net of cash acquired (3) (97) (2,179)
Receipts from settlements of net investment hedges 0 220 37
Payments for settlements of net investment hedges 0 0 (48)
Net cash used in investing activities (247) (262) (2,619)
Cash flows from financing activities      
Issuance of notes 0 988 1,672
Repayment of notes (500) (626) (500)
Proceeds from stock-based compensation plans 50 26 38
Repurchase of shares related to stock-based compensation (71) (87) (83)
Treasury shares (490) (983) (750)
Dividends (564) (515) (463)
Dividends to noncontrolling interests (9) (1) (5)
Debt issuance costs, extinguishment costs and related fees 0 (10) (31)
Net cash used in financing activities (1,584) (1,208) (122)
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents 41 (46) (50)
Increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents 361 (42) (786)
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period 1,769 1,811 2,597
Cash and cash equivalents, end of period $ 2,130 $ 1,769 $ 1,811
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CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY - USD ($)
$ in Millions
Total
Total Moody’s Shareholders’ Equity
Common Stock
Capital Surplus
Retained Earnings
Treasury Stock
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss
Non- Controlling Interests
Common stock, shares, issued, beginning balance (in shares) at Dec. 31, 2020     342,900,000          
Treasury stock, common, shares, beginning balance (in shares) at Dec. 31, 2020           (155,800,000)    
Beginning Balance at Dec. 31, 2020 $ 1,763 $ 1,569 $ 3 $ 735 $ 11,011 $ (9,748) $ (432) $ 194
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]                
Net income 2,214 2,214     2,214     0
Dividends (466) (463)     (463)     (3)
Stock-based compensation 175 175   175        
Shares issued for stock-based compensation plans at average cost, net (40) (40)   (25)   $ (15)    
Shares issued for stock-based compensation plans at average cost, net (in shares)           700,000    
Treasury shares repurchased (750) (750)   0   $ (750)    
Treasury shares repurchased (in shares)           (2,200,000)    
Currency translation adjustment, net of net investment hedge activity (51) (49)         (49) (2)
Net actuarial gains (losses) and prior service cost 55 55         55  
Amortization of prior service costs/ actuarial losses and settlement charge 14 14         14  
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on cash flow hedges 2 2         2  
Common stock, shares, issued, ending balance (in shares) at Dec. 31, 2021     342,900,000          
Treasury stock, common, shares, ending balance (in shares) at Dec. 31, 2021           (157,300,000)    
Ending Balance at Dec. 31, 2021 2,916 2,727 $ 3 885 12,762 $ (10,513) (410) 189
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]                
Net income 1,374 1,374     1,374     0
Dividends (521) (518)     (518)     (3)
Stock-based compensation 169 169   169        
Shares issued for stock-based compensation plans at average cost, net (61) (61)   (32)   $ (29)    
Shares issued for stock-based compensation plans at average cost, net (in shares)           600,000    
Shares issued as consideration to acquire kompany (in shares) [1]           100,000    
Shares issued as consideration to acquire kompany [1] 44 44   35   $ 9    
Treasury shares repurchased (983) (983)   (3)   $ (980)    
Treasury shares repurchased (in shares)           (3,100,000)    
Currency translation adjustment, net of net investment hedge activity (253) (237)         (237) (16)
Net actuarial gains (losses) and prior service cost 0              
Amortization of prior service costs/ actuarial losses and settlement charge 2 2         2  
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on cash flow hedges $ 2 2         2  
Common stock, shares, issued, ending balance (in shares) at Dec. 31, 2022 342,902,272   342,900,000          
Treasury stock, common, shares, ending balance (in shares) at Dec. 31, 2022 (159,702,362)         (159,700,000)    
Ending Balance at Dec. 31, 2022 $ 2,689 2,519 $ 3 1,054 13,618 $ (11,513) (643) 170
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]                
Net income 1,608 1,607     1,607     1
Dividends (575) (566)     (566)     (9)
Stock-based compensation 193 193   193        
Shares issued for stock-based compensation plans at average cost, net (19) (19)   (19)   $ 0    
Shares issued for stock-based compensation plans at average cost, net (in shares)           800,000    
Treasury shares repurchased (492) (492)   0   $ (492)    
Treasury shares repurchased (in shares)           (1,500,000)    
Currency translation adjustment, net of net investment hedge activity 80 84         84 (4)
Net actuarial gains (losses) and prior service cost (6) (6)         (6)  
Amortization of prior service costs/ actuarial losses and settlement charge (3) (3)         (3)  
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on cash flow hedges $ 1 1         1  
Common stock, shares, issued, ending balance (in shares) at Dec. 31, 2023 342,902,272   342,900,000          
Treasury stock, common, shares, ending balance (in shares) at Dec. 31, 2023 (160,430,754)         (160,400,000)    
Ending Balance at Dec. 31, 2023 $ 3,476 $ 3,318 $ 3 $ 1,228 $ 14,659 $ (12,005) $ (567) $ 158
[1] Represents a non-cash investing activity relating to the issuance of common stock to fund a portion of the purchase price for kompany.MOODY
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CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY (Parenthetical) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Dec. 31, 2021
Statement of Stockholders' Equity [Abstract]      
Dividends declared per share attributable to Moody's common shareholders (in USD per share) $ 3.08 $ 2.80 $ 2.48
Currency translation adjustment, tax $ (44) $ 53 $ 65
Amortization of actuarial losses and prior service costs included in net income, tax 0 1 5
Net actuarial gains (losses) and prior service cost, tax (2) $ (1) $ 18
Amortization of losses on cash flow hedges $ 1    
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DESCRIPTION OF BUSINESS AND BASIS OF PRESENTATION
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]  
DESCRIPTION OF BUSINESS AND BASIS OF PRESENTATION DESCRIPTION OF BUSINESS AND BASIS OF PRESENTATION
Moody’s is a global provider of integrated perspectives on risk that empowers organizations and investors to make better decisions. Moody’s reports in two reportable segments: MA and MIS.
MA is a global provider of: i) data and information; ii) research and insights; and iii) decision solutions, which help companies make better and faster decisions. MA leverages its industry expertise across multiple risks such as credit, market, financial crime, supply chain, catastrophe and climate to deliver integrated risk assessment solutions that enable business leaders to identify, measure and manage the implications of interrelated risks and opportunities.
MIS publishes credit ratings and provides assessment services on a wide range of debt obligations, programs and facilities, and the entities that issue such obligations in markets worldwide, including various corporate, financial institution and governmental obligations, and structured finance securities.
Certain reclassifications have been made to prior period amounts to conform to the current presentation.
Adoption of New Accounting Standards in 2023
In January 2021, the FASB issued ASU 2021-01, “Reference Rate Reform - Scope,” which clarified the scope and application of the original guidance, ASU No. 2020-04, "Facilitation of the Effects of Reference Rate Reform on Financial Reporting" ("ASU No. 2020-04"), issued in March 2020 (codified into ASC Topic 848 "Reference Rate Reform"). ASU No. 2020-04 provides temporary optional expedients and exceptions to the GAAP guidance on contract modifications and hedge accounting to ease the financial reporting burdens related to the expected market transition from LIBOR and other interbank offered rates to alternative reference rates. In December 2022, the FASB issued ASU 2022-06, "Reference Rate Reform—Deferral of the Sunset Date of Topic 848," which deferred the sunset date of Topic 848 to December 31, 2024. These ASU's were effective upon issuance and the amendments may be applied prospectively through December 31, 2024 as the transition from LIBOR is completed.
During the first quarter of 2023, the Company modified the contractual terms of certain of its interest rate swaps designated as fair value hedges and cross-currency swaps designated as net investment hedges. These modifications replaced the previous LIBOR/EURIBOR-based reference rates included in the swap agreements to SOFR/ESTR-based rates. Pursuant to the modification of the contractual terms of these instruments, the Company utilized the optional expedients set forth in ASC Topic 848 relating to derivative instruments used in hedging relationships. The aggregate notional amounts of these swaps is disclosed in Note 7.
Reclassification of Previously Reported Revenue by LOB
In the second quarter of 2023, the Company expanded its disaggregation of revenue disclosures for MA's Decision Solutions LOB to enhance insight and transparency into this business. In conjunction with this new presentation, the Company reclassified certain immaterial revenue relating to structured finance solutions from the Decision Solutions LOB to the Research & Insights LOB.
Prior year revenue by LOB disclosures have been reclassified to conform to this new presentation, which is disclosed in Note 3.
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SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Accounting Policies [Abstract]  
SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
Basis of Consolidation
The consolidated financial statements include those of Moody’s Corporation and its majority- and wholly-owned subsidiaries. The effects of all intercompany transactions have been eliminated. Investments in companies for which the Company has significant influence over operating and financial policies but not a controlling interest are accounted for on an equity basis whereby the Company records its proportional share of the investment’s net income or loss as part of other non-operating income (expense), net and any dividends received reduce the carrying amount of the investment. Equity investments without a readily determinable fair value for which the Company does not have significant influence are accounted for under the ASC Topic 321 measurement alternative; these investments are recorded at initial cost, less impairment, adjusted upward or downward for any observable price changes in similar investments. The Company applies the guidelines set forth in ASC Topic 810 assessing its interests in variable interest entities to decide whether to consolidate an entity. The Company has reviewed the potential variable interest entities and determined that there are no consolidation requirements under ASC Topic 810. The Company consolidates its ICRA subsidiaries on a three month lag.
Cash and Cash Equivalents
Cash equivalents principally consist of investments in money market deposit accounts and money market funds as well as certificates of deposit with maturities of three months or less when purchased.
Short-term Investments
Short-term investments are securities with maturities greater than 90 days at the time of purchase that are available for operations in the next 12 months. The Company’s short-term investments primarily consist of certificates of deposit and their cost
approximates fair value due to the short-term nature of the instruments. Interest and dividends on these investments are recorded into income when earned.
Property and Equipment
Property and equipment are stated at cost and are depreciated using the straight-line method over their estimated useful lives. Expenditures for maintenance and repairs that do not extend the economic useful life of the related assets are charged to expense as incurred.
Computer Software Developed or Obtained for Internal Use
The Company capitalizes costs related to software developed or obtained for internal use. These assets, included in property and equipment in the consolidated balance sheets, relate to MA's SaaS-based solutions as well as the Company’s financial, website and other systems. Such costs generally consist of employee compensation, direct costs for third-party license fees and professional services provided by third parties, in each case incurred either during the application development stage or in connection with upgrades and enhancements that increase functionality. Such costs are depreciated over their estimated useful lives on a straight-line basis. Costs incurred during the preliminary project stage of development as well as maintenance costs are expensed as incurred.
The Company also capitalizes implementation costs incurred in cloud computing arrangements (e.g., hosted arrangements) and depreciates the costs over the non-cancellable term of the cloud computing arrangements plus any option renewal periods that are reasonably certain to be exercised or for which the exercise is controlled by the service provider. The Company classifies the amortization of capitalized implementation costs in the same line item in the consolidated statement of operations as the fees associated with the hosting service (i.e., operating and SG&A expense) and classifies the related payments in the consolidated statement of cash flows in the same manner as payments made for fees associated with the hosting service (i.e. cash flows from operating activities). In addition, the capitalization of implementation costs is reflected in the consolidated balance sheets consistent with the location of prepayment of fees for the hosting element (i.e., within other current assets or other assets).
Goodwill and Other Acquired Intangible Assets
Moody’s evaluates its goodwill for impairment at the reporting unit level, defined as an operating segment (i.e., MA and MIS), or one level below an operating segment (i.e., a component of an operating segment), annually as of July 31 or more frequently if impairment indicators arise in accordance with ASC Topic 350.
The Company evaluates the recoverability of goodwill using a two-step impairment test approach at the reporting unit level. In the first step, the Company assesses various qualitative factors to determine whether the fair value of a reporting unit may be less than its carrying amount. If a determination is made based on the qualitative factors that an impairment does not exist, the Company is not required to perform further testing. If the aforementioned qualitative assessment results in the Company concluding that it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit may be less than its carrying amount, the fair value of the reporting unit will be quantitatively determined and compared to its carrying value including goodwill. If the fair value of the reporting unit exceeds the carrying value of the net assets assigned to that unit, goodwill is not impaired and the Company is not required to perform further testing. If the fair value of the reporting unit is less than the carrying value, the Company will record a goodwill impairment charge for the amount by which the carrying value exceeds the reporting unit’s fair value.
The Company evaluates its reporting units on an annual basis, or more frequently if there are changes in the reporting structure of the Company due to acquisitions, realignments or if there are indicators of potential impairment. For the reporting units where the Company is consistently able to conclude that no impairment exists using only a qualitative approach, the Company’s accounting policy is to perform the second step of the aforementioned goodwill impairment assessment at least once every three years.
For purposes of assessing the recoverability of goodwill, the Company has four reporting units: two reporting units within MA consisting of businesses that offer: i) data and data-driven analytical solutions; and ii) risk-management software, workflow and CRE solutions and two within the Company’s ratings business (one for the ICRA business and one that encompasses all of Moody’s other ratings operations).
Impairment of long-lived assets and definite-lived intangible assets
Long-lived assets (including ROU Assets) and amortizable intangible assets are reviewed for recoverability whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount may not be recoverable.
Under the first step of the recoverability assessment, the Company compares the estimated undiscounted future cash flows attributable to the asset or asset group to their carrying value. If the undiscounted future cash flows are greater than the carrying value, no further assessment is required. If the undiscounted future cash flows are less than the carrying value, Moody's proceeds with step two of the assessment. Under step two of this assessment, Moody's is required to determine the fair value of the asset or asset group (reduced by the estimated cost to sell the asset for assets or disposal groups classified as held-for-sale) and recognize an impairment loss if the carrying amount exceeds its fair value.
Stock-Based Compensation
The Company records compensation expense over the requisite service period for all share-based payment award transactions granted to employees based on the fair value of the equity instrument at the time of grant. This includes shares issued under stock option and restricted stock plans.
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities
Based on the Company’s risk management policy, the Company may use derivative financial instruments to reduce exposure to changes in foreign exchange rates and interest rates. The Company does not enter into derivative financial instruments for speculative purposes. All derivative financial instruments are recorded on the consolidated balance sheets at their respective fair values on a gross basis. The changes in the value of derivatives that qualify as fair value hedges are recorded in the same income statement line item in earnings in which the corresponding adjustment to the carrying value of the hedged item is presented. The entire change in the fair value of derivatives that qualify as cash flow hedges is recorded to OCI and such amounts are reclassified from AOCI(L) to the same income statement line in earnings in the same period or periods during which the hedged transaction affects income. The Company assesses effectiveness for net investment hedges using the spot-method. The entire change in the fair value of derivatives that qualify as net investment hedges is initially recorded to OCI. Those changes in fair value attributable to components included in the assessment of hedge effectiveness in a net investment hedge are recorded in the currency translation adjustment component of OCI and remain in AOCI(L) until the period in which the hedged item affects earnings. Those changes in fair value attributable to components excluded from the assessment of hedge effectiveness in a net investment hedge are recorded to OCI and amortized to earnings using a systematic and rational method over the duration of the hedge. Any changes in the fair value of derivatives that the Company does not designate as hedging instruments under ASC Topic 815 are recorded in the consolidated statements of operations in the period in which they occur. Cash flows from derivatives are recognized in the consolidated statements of cash flows in a manner consistent with the recognition of the underlying hedged item.
Revenue Recognition and Costs to Obtain or Fulfill a Contract with a Customer
Revenue recognition:
Revenue is recognized when control of promised goods or services is transferred to the customer, in an amount that reflects the consideration the Company expects to be entitled to in exchange for those goods or services.
When contracts with customers contain multiple performance obligations, the Company accounts for individual performance obligations separately if they are distinct. The transaction price is allocated to each distinct performance obligation on a relative SSP basis. The Company determines the SSP by using the price charged for a deliverable when sold separately or uses management’s best estimate of SSP for goods or services not sold separately using estimation techniques that maximize observable data points, including: internal factors relevant to its pricing practices such as costs and margin objectives; standalone sales prices of similar products; pricing policies; percentage of the fee charged for a primary product or service relative to a related product or service; and geography.
Sales, usage-based, value added and other taxes are excluded from revenues.
MA Revenue
In the MA segment, products and services offered by the Company include hosted research and data subscriptions, installed and hosted software subscriptions, perpetual installed software licenses and related maintenance, or PCS, and professional services. Subscription and PCS contracts are generally invoiced in advance of the contractual coverage period, which is principally one year, but can range from 3-5 years. Professional services are invoiced as those services are provided. Payment terms and conditions vary by contract type, but primarily include a requirement of payment within 30 to 60 days.
Revenue from research, data and other hosted subscriptions is recognized ratably over the related subscription period as MA's performance obligation to provide access to these products is progressively fulfilled over the stated term of the contract. A large portion of these services are invoiced in the months of November, December and January.
Revenue from the sale of a software license, when considered distinct from the related software implementation services, is generally recognized at the time the product master or first copy is delivered or transferred to the customer. PCS is generally recognized ratably over the contractual period commencing when the software license is fully delivered. Revenue from installed software subscriptions, which includes PCS, is bifurcated into a software license performance obligation and a PCS performance obligation, which follow the patterns of recognition described above, except for those installed subscriptions where the software license and PCS performance obligations were determined to be incapable of being distinct from each other in accordance with ASC 606-10-25-19 and ASC 606-10-25-20. In such instances, revenue is recognized over time.
For implementation services and other service projects for which fees are fixed, the Company determined progress towards completion is most accurately measured on a percentage-of-completion basis (input method) as this approach utilizes the most directly observable data points and is therefore used to recognize the related revenue. For implementation services where price varies based on time expended, a time-based measure of progress towards completion of the performance obligation is utilized.
Revenue from professional services rendered is generally recognized over time as the services are performed.
Products and services offered within the MA segment are sold either stand-alone or together in various combinations. In instances where an arrangement contains multiple performance obligations, the Company accounts for the individual performance obligations separately if they are considered distinct. Revenue is generally allocated to all performance obligations based upon the relative SSP at contract inception. For certain performance obligations, judgment is required to determine the SSP. Revenue is recognized for each performance obligation based upon the conditions for revenue recognition noted above.
In the MA segment, customers usually pay a fixed fee for the products and services based on signed contracts. However, accounting for variable consideration is applied mainly for: i) estimates for cancellation rights and price concessions and ii) T&M based services.
The Company estimates the variable consideration associated with cancellation rights and price concessions based on the expected amount to be provided to customers and reduces the amount of revenue to be recognized.
MIS Revenue
In the MIS segment, revenue arrangements with multiple elements are generally comprised of two distinct performance obligations, a rating and the related monitoring service. Revenue attributed to ratings of issued securities is generally recognized when the rating is delivered to the issuer. Revenue attributed to monitoring of issuers or issued securities is recognized ratably over the period in which the monitoring is performed, generally one year. In the case of certain structured finance products, primarily CMBS, issuers can elect to pay all of the annual monitoring fees upfront. These fees are deferred and recognized over the future monitoring periods based on the expected lives of the rated securities.
MIS arrangements generally have standard contractual terms for which the stated payments are due at conclusion of the ratings process for ratings and either upfront or in arrears for monitoring services; and are signed by customers either on a per issue basis or at the beginning of the relationship with the customer. In situations when customer fees for an arrangement may be variable, the Company estimates the variable consideration at inception using the expected value method based on analysis of similar contracts in the same line of business, which is constrained based on the Company’s assessment of the realization of the adjustment amount.
The Company allocates the transaction price within arrangements that include multiple performance obligations based upon the relative SSP of each service. The SSP for both rating and monitoring services is generally based upon observable selling prices where the rating or monitoring service is sold separately to similar customers.
Costs to Obtain or Fulfill a Contract with a Customer:
Costs to obtain a contract with a customer
Costs incurred to obtain customer contracts, such as sales commissions, are deferred and recorded within other current assets and other assets when such costs are determined to be incremental to obtaining a contract, would not have been incurred otherwise and the Company expects to recover those costs. These costs are amortized to expense on a systematic basis consistent with the transfer of the products or services to the customer. Depending on the line of business to which the contract relates, this may be based upon the average economic life of the products sold or average period for which services are provided, inclusive of anticipated contract renewals. Determining the estimated economic life of the products sold requires judgment with respect to anticipated future technological changes. Costs to obtain customer contracts are only incurred in the MA segment.
Cost to fulfill a contract with a customer
Costs incurred to fulfill customer contracts, are deferred and recorded within other current assets and other assets when such costs relate directly to a contract, generate or enhance resources of the Company that will be used in satisfying performance obligations in the future and the Company expects to recover those costs.
The Company capitalizes royalty costs within the MA segment related to third-party information data providers associated with hosted company information and business intelligence products. These costs are amortized to expense consistent with the recognition pattern of the related revenue over time.
In addition, the Company capitalizes work-in-process costs for in-progress MIS ratings, which is recognized consistent with the rendering of the related services to the customers, as ratings are issued.
Accounts Receivable Allowances
In order to determine an estimate of expected credit losses, receivables are segmented based on similar risk characteristics including historical credit loss patterns to calculate reserve rates. The Company uses an aging method for developing its allowance for credit losses by which receivable balances are stratified based on aging category. A reserve rate is calculated for each aging category which is generally based on historical information, and is adjusted, when necessary, for current conditions (e.g., macroeconomic or industry related) and reasonable and supportable forecasts about the future. The Company also considers customer specific information (e.g., bankruptcy or financial difficulty) when estimating its expected credit losses, as well as the economic environment of the customers, both from an industry and geographic perspective, in evaluating the need for allowances. Expected credit losses are reflected as additions to the accounts receivable allowance. Actual uncollectible account write-offs are recorded against the allowance.
Leases
The Company has operating leases, which substantially all relate to the lease of office space. The Company’s leases which are classified as finance leases are not material to the consolidated financial statements.
The Company determines if an arrangement meets the definition of a lease at contract inception. The Company recognizes in its consolidated balance sheets a lease liability and an ROU Asset for all leases with a lease term greater than 12 months. In determining the length of the lease term, the Company utilizes judgment in assessing the likelihood of whether it is reasonably certain that it will exercise an option to extend or early-terminate a lease, if such options are provided in the lease agreement.
ROU Assets represent the Company’s right to use an underlying asset for the lease term and lease liabilities represent the Company’s obligation to make lease payments arising from the lease. ROU Assets and lease liabilities are recognized at the lease
commencement date based on the present value of lease payments over the lease term. As substantially all of the Company’s leases do not provide an implicit interest rate, the Company uses its estimated secured incremental borrowing rates at the lease commencement date in determining the present value of lease payments. These secured incremental borrowing rates are attributable to the currency in which the lease is denominated.
At commencement, the Company’s initial measurement of the ROU Asset is calculated as the present value of the remaining lease payments (i.e., lease liability), with additive adjustments reflecting: initial direct costs (e.g., broker commissions) and prepaid lease payments (if any); and reduced by any lease incentives provided by the lessor if: (i) received before lease commencement or (ii) receipt of the lease incentive is contingent upon future events for which the occurrence is both probable and within the Company’s control.
Lease expense for minimum operating lease payments is recognized on a straight-line basis over the lease term. This straight-line lease expense represents a single lease cost which is comprised of both an interest accretion component relating to the lease liability and amortization of the ROU Assets. The Company records this single lease cost in operating and SG&A expenses. However, in situations where an operating lease ROU Asset has been impaired, the subsequent amortization of the ROU Asset is then recorded on a straight-line basis over the remaining lease term and is combined with accretion expense on the lease liability to result in single operating lease cost (which subsequent to impairment will no longer follow a straight-line recognition pattern).
The Company has lease agreements which include lease and non-lease components. For the Company’s office space leases, the lease components (e.g., fixed rent payments) and non-lease components (e.g., fixed common-area maintenance costs) are combined and accounted for as a single lease component.
Variable lease payments (e.g., variable common-area-maintenance costs) are only included in the initial measurement of the lease liability to the extent those payments depend on an index or a rate. Variable lease payments not included in the lease liability are recognized in net income in the period in which the obligation for those payments is incurred.
Contingencies
Moody’s is involved in legal and tax proceedings, governmental, regulatory and legislative investigations and inquiries, claims and litigation that are incidental to the Company’s business, including claims based on ratings assigned by MIS. Moody’s is also subject to ongoing tax audits in the normal course of business. Management periodically assesses the Company’s liabilities and contingencies in connection with these matters based upon the latest information available. Moody’s discloses material pending legal proceedings pursuant to SEC rules and other pending matters as it may determine to be appropriate.
For claims, litigation and proceedings and governmental investigations and inquiries not related to income taxes, the Company records liabilities in the consolidated financial statements when it is both probable that a liability has been incurred and the amount of loss can be reasonably estimated and periodically adjusts these as appropriate. When the reasonable estimate of the loss is within a range of amounts, the minimum amount of the range is accrued unless some higher amount within the range is a better estimate than another amount within the range. In instances when a loss is reasonably possible but uncertainties exist related to the probable outcome and/or the amount or range of loss, management does not record a liability but discloses the contingency if material. As additional information becomes available, the Company adjusts its assessments and estimates of such matters accordingly. Moody’s also discloses material pending legal proceedings pursuant to SEC rules and other pending matters as it may determine to be appropriate.
In view of the inherent difficulty of assessing the potential outcome of legal proceedings, governmental, regulatory and legislative investigations and inquiries, claims and litigation and similar matters and contingencies, particularly when the claimants seek large or indeterminate damages or assert novel legal theories or the matters involve a large number of parties, the Company often cannot predict what the eventual outcome of the pending matters will be or the timing of any resolution of such matters. The Company also may be unable to predict the impact (if any) that any such matters may have on how its business is conducted, on its competitive position or on its financial position, results of operations or cash flows. As the process to resolve any pending matters progresses, management will continue to review the latest information available and assess its ability to predict the outcome of such matters and the effects, if any, on its operations and financial condition and to accrue for and disclose such matters as and when required. However, because such matters are inherently unpredictable and unfavorable developments or resolutions can occur, the ultimate outcome of such matters, including the amount of any loss, may differ from those estimates.
Operating Expenses
Operating expenses include costs associated with the development and production of the Company’s products and services and their delivery to customers. These expenses principally include employee compensation and benefits and travel costs that are incurred in connection with these activities. Operating expenses are charged to income as incurred.
Selling, General and Administrative Expenses
SG&A expenses include such items as compensation and benefits for corporate officers and staff and compensation and other expenses related to sales. They also include items such as office rent, business insurance and professional fees. SG&A expenses are charged to income as incurred.
Foreign Currency Translation
For all operations outside the U.S. where the Company has designated the local currency as the functional currency, assets and liabilities are translated into U.S. dollars using end of year exchange rates, and revenue and expenses are translated using
average exchange rates for the year. For these foreign operations, currency translation adjustments are recorded to other comprehensive income.
Comprehensive Income
Comprehensive income represents the change in net assets of a business enterprise during a period due to transactions and other events and circumstances from non-owner sources including: foreign currency translation impacts; net actuarial gains and losses and net prior service costs related to pension and other retirement plans; and gains and losses on derivative instruments designated as net investment hedges or cash flow hedges. Comprehensive income items, including cumulative translation adjustments of entities that are less-than-wholly-owned subsidiaries, will be reclassified to noncontrolling interests and thereby, adjusting AOCI(L) proportionately in accordance with the percentage of ownership interest of the non-controlling shareholder. Additionally, the Company reclassifies the income tax effects from AOCI(L) at such time as the earnings or loss of the related activity are recognized in earnings.
Income Taxes
The Company accounts for income taxes under the asset and liability method in accordance with ASC Topic 740. Therefore, income tax expense is based on reported income before income taxes and deferred income taxes reflect the effect of temporary differences between the amounts of assets and liabilities that are recognized for financial reporting purposes and the amounts that are recognized for income tax purposes.
The Company classifies interest related to unrecognized tax benefits as a component of interest expense in its consolidated statements of operations. Penalties are recognized in other non-operating expenses. For UTPs, the Company first determines whether it is more-likely-than-not (defined as a likelihood of more than fifty percent) that a tax position will be sustained based on its technical merits as of the reporting date, assuming that taxing authorities will examine the position and have full knowledge of all relevant information. A tax position that meets this more-likely-than-not threshold is then measured and recognized at the largest amount of benefit that is greater than fifty percent likely to be realized upon effective settlement with a taxing authority.
On December 22, 2017, the Tax Act was signed into law, resulting in all previously undistributed foreign earnings being subject to U.S. tax. The Company has provided deferred taxes for those entities whose earnings are not considered indefinitely reinvested.
Fair Value of Financial Instruments
The Company’s financial instruments include cash, cash equivalents, trade receivables and payables, and certain short-term investments consisting primarily of certificates of deposit and money market deposits, all of which are short-term in nature and, accordingly, approximate fair value.
The Company also invests in mutual funds, which are accounted for as equity securities with readily determinable fair values under ASC Topic 321. The Company measures these investments at fair value with both realized gains and losses and unrealized holding gains and losses for these investments included in net income.
Also, the Company uses derivative instruments to manage certain financial exposures that occur in the normal course of business. These derivative instruments are carried at fair value in the Company’s consolidated balance sheets.
Fair value is defined by the ASC Topic 820 as the price that would be received from selling an asset or paid to transfer a liability (i.e., an exit price) in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. The determination of this fair value is based on the principal or most advantageous market in which the Company could commence transactions and considers assumptions that market participants would use when pricing the asset or liability, such as inherent risk, transfer restrictions and risk of nonperformance. Also, determination of fair value assumes that market participants will consider the highest and best use of the asset.
The ASC establishes a fair value hierarchy whereby the inputs contained in valuation techniques used to measure fair value are categorized into three broad levels as follows:
Level 1: quoted market prices in active markets that the reporting entity has the ability to access at the date of the fair value measurement;
Level 2: inputs other than quoted market prices described in Level 1 that are observable for the asset or liability, either directly or indirectly, such as quoted prices in active markets for similar assets or liabilities, quoted prices for identical or similar assets or liabilities in markets that are not active or other inputs that are observable or can be corroborated by observable market data for substantially the full term of the assets or liabilities;
Level 3: unobservable inputs that are supported by little or no market activity and that are significant to the fair value measurement of the assets or liabilities.
Concentration of Credit Risk
Financial instruments that potentially subject the Company to concentration of credit risk principally consist of cash and cash equivalents, short-term investments, trade receivables and derivatives.
For cash and cash equivalents, short-term investments and derivatives, the Company manages its credit exposure by limiting the amount of counterparty risk with any particular financial institution; limits are assigned to each counterparty based on perceived quality of credit and are monitored daily. Cash equivalents are held among various money market deposit accounts, money market
funds, and certificates of deposits as of December 31, 2023 and 2022. Short-term investments primarily consist of certificates of deposit as of December 31, 2023 and 2022. Derivatives primarily consist of foreign exchange forwards or swap contracts (interest rate swaps and cross-currency swaps) as of December 31, 2023 and 2022. For trade receivables, no customer accounted for 10% or more of accounts receivable at December 31, 2023 or 2022.
Earnings per Share of Common Stock
Basic shares outstanding is calculated based on the weighted average number of shares of common stock outstanding during the reporting period. Diluted shares outstanding is calculated giving effect to all potentially dilutive common shares, assuming that such shares were outstanding and dilutive during the reporting period.
Pension and Other Retirement Benefits
Moody’s maintains various noncontributory DBPPs as well as other contributory and noncontributory retirement plans. The expense and assets/liabilities that the Company reports for its pension and other retirement benefits are dependent on many assumptions concerning the outcome of future events and circumstances. These assumptions represent the Company’s best estimates and may vary by plan. The differences between the assumptions for the expected long-term rate of return on plan assets and actual experience is spread over a five-year period to the market-related value of plan assets, which is used in determining the expected return on assets component of annual pension expense. All other actuarial gains and losses are generally deferred and amortized over the estimated average future working life of active plan participants.
The Company recognizes as an asset or liability in its consolidated balance sheet the funded status of its defined benefit retirement plans, measured on a plan-by-plan basis. Changes in the funded status due to actuarial gains/losses are recorded as part of other comprehensive income during the period the changes occur.
Use of Estimates
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements, and the reported amounts of revenue and expenses during the period. Actual results could differ from those estimates.
Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements
In November 2023, the FASB issued ASU 2023-07, "Segment Reporting (Topic 280): Improvements to Reportable Segment Disclosures" ("ASU No. 2023-07"), which expands segment disclosure requirements for public entities. ASU No. 2023-07 will require entities to disclose significant segment expenses by reportable segment if they are regularly provided to the CODM and included in each reported measure of segment profit or loss. In addition, this ASU permits entities to disclose more than one measure of segment profit or loss used by the CODM. Additionally, disclosure of the CODM’s title and position will be required on an annual basis, as well as an explanation of how the CODM uses the reported measure(s). Furthermore, all existing annual disclosures about segment profit or loss and assets must be provided on an interim basis in addition to disclosure of significant segment expenses and other segment items. This ASU is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2023, and interim periods within fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2024, and requires retrospective application to all prior periods presented in the financial statements. The Company is currently evaluating the impact of adopting this ASU on its consolidated financial statements and disclosures.
In December 2023, the FASB issued ASU 2023-09, "Income Taxes (Topic 740): Improvements to Income Tax Disclosures" ("ASU No. 2023-09"), which is intended to enhance the transparency and decision usefulness of income tax disclosures. The amendments in ASU No. 2023-09 require entities to disclose additional income tax information, primarily related to greater disaggregation of the entity's ETR reconciliation and income taxes paid by jurisdiction disclosures. This ASU is effective for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2024, and should be applied on a prospective basis; however, retrospective application is permitted. The Company is currently evaluating the impact of adopting this ASU on its consolidated financial statements and disclosures.
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REVENUES
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Revenue from Contract with Customer [Abstract]  
REVENUES REVENUES
Revenue by Category
The following table presents the Company’s revenues disaggregated by LOB:
Year Ended December 31,
202320222021
MA:
Decision Solutions (DS)
Banking$521 $481 $474 
Insurance550 504 245 
KYC312 260 217 
Total DS1,383 1,245 936 
Research and Insights (R&I)884 812 772 
Data and Information (D&I)789 712 698 
Total external revenue3,056 2,769 2,406 
Intersegment revenue13 8 7 
Total MA3,069 2,777 2,413 
MIS:
Corporate finance (CFG)
Investment-grade335 294 439 
High-yield150 108 411 
Bank loans292 275 606 
Other accounts (1)
627 592 631 
Total CFG1,404 1,269 2,087 
Structured finance (SFG)
Asset-backed securities121 116 118 
RMBS92 106 123 
CMBS60 98 102 
Structured credit129 140 215 
Other accounts (SFG)3 2 2 
Total SFG405 462 560 
Financial institutions (FIG)
Banking378 337 411 
Insurance123 113 145 
Managed investments32 28 36 
Other accounts (FIG)12 13 10 
Total FIG545 491 602 
Public, project and infrastructure finance (PPIF)
Public finance / sovereign205 197 244 
Project and infrastructure271 234 277 
Total PPIF476 431 521 
Total ratings revenue2,830 2,653 3,770 
MIS Other30 46 42 
Total external revenue2,860 2,699 3,812 
Intersegment royalty186 174 165 
Total MIS3,046 2,873 3,977 
Eliminations(199)(182)(172)
Total MCO$5,916 $5,468 $6,218 
(1)Other includes: recurring monitoring fees of a rated debt obligation and/or entities that issue such obligations as well as fees from programs such as commercial paper, medium term notes, and ICRA corporate finance revenue.
The following table presents the Company’s revenues disaggregated by LOB and geographic area:
Year Ended December 31, 2023Year Ended December 31, 2022Year Ended December 31, 2021
U.S.Non-U.S.TotalU.S.Non-U.S.TotalU.S.Non-U.S.Total
MA:
Decision Solutions$577 $806 $1,383 $519 $726 $1,245 $387 $549 $936 
Research and Insights490 394 884 470 342 812 426 346 772 
Data and Information281 508 789 250 462 712 226 472 698 
Total MA1,348 1,708 3,056 1,239 1,530 2,769 1,039 1,367 2,406 
MIS:
Corporate finance952 452 1,404 832 437 1,269 1,384 703 2,087 
Structured finance252 153 405 308 154 462 364 196 560 
Financial institutions253 292 545 223 268 491 289 313 602 
Public, project and infrastructure finance292 184 476 266 165 431 304 217 521 
Total ratings revenue1,749 1,081 2,830 1,629 1,024 2,653 2,341 1,429 3,770 
MIS Other1 29 30 5 41 46 3 39 42 
Total MIS1,750 1,110 2,860 1,634 1,065 2,699 2,344 1,468 3,812 
Total MCO$3,098 $2,818 $5,916 $2,873 $2,595 $5,468 $3,383 $2,835 $6,218 

The following table presents the Company's reportable segment revenues disaggregated by segment and geographic region:
Year Ended December 31,
2023
2022
2021
MA:
  U.S.$1,348 $1,239 $1,039 
  Non-U.S.:
   EMEA1,169 1,034 955 
   Asia-Pacific306 285 246 
   Americas233 211 166 
   Total Non-U.S.1,708 1,530 1,367 
  Total MA3,056 2,769 2,406 
MIS:
  U.S.1,750 1,634 2,344 
  Non-U.S.:
   EMEA679 648 930 
   Asia-Pacific271 271 357 
   Americas160 146 181 
   Total Non-U.S.1,110 1,065 1,468 
  Total MIS2,860 2,699 3,812 
Total MCO$5,916 $5,468 $6,218 
The following table summarizes the split between transaction and recurring revenue:
Year Ended December 31,
20232022
2021
TransactionRecurringTotalTransactionRecurringTotalTransactionRecurringTotal
Decision Solutions$169 $1,214 $1,383 $153 $1,092 $1,245 $147 $789 $936 
12 %88 %100 %12 %88 %100 %16 %84 %100 %
Research and Insights$16 $868 $884 $17 $795 $812 $19 $753 $772 
2 %98 %100 %2 %98 %100 %2 %98 %100 %
Data and Information$3 $786 $789 $— $712 $712 $4 $694 $698 
— %100 %100 %— %100 %100 %1 %99 %100 %
Total MA$188 
(1)
$2,868 $3,056 $170 $2,599 $2,769 $170 $2,236 $2,406 
6 %94 %100 %6 %94 %100 %7 %93 %100 %
Corporate Finance$887 $517 $1,404 $772 $497 $1,269 $1,600 $487 $2,087 
63 %37 %100 %61 %39 %100 %77 %23 %100 %
Structured Finance$190 $215 $405 $262 $200 $462 $362 $198 $560 
47 %53 %100 %57 %43 %100 %65 %35 %100 %
Financial Institutions$254 $291 $545 $211 $280 $491 $320 $282 $602 
47 %53 %100 %43 %57 %100 %53 %47 %100 %
Public, Project and Infrastructure Finance$301 $175 $476 $263 $168 $431 $354 $167 $521 
63 %37 %100 %61 %39 %100 %68 %32 %100 %
MIS Other$6 $24 $30 $4 $42 $46 $4 $38 $42 
20 %80 %100 %9 %91 %100 %10 %90 %100 %
Total MIS$1,638 $1,222 $2,860 $1,512 $1,187 $2,699 $2,640 $1,172 $3,812 
57 %43 %100 %56 %44 %100 %69 %31 %100 %
Total Moody’s Corporation$1,826 $4,090 $5,916 $1,682 $3,786 $5,468 $2,810 $3,408 $6,218 
31 %69 %100 %31 %69 %100 %45 %55 %100 %
(1)    Revenue from software implementation services and risk management advisory projects, while classified by management as transactional revenue, is recognized over time under U.S. GAAP (please also refer to the following table).

The following table presents the timing of revenue recognition:
Year Ended December 31, 2023Year Ended December 31, 2022Year Ended December 31, 2021
MAMISTotalMAMISTotalMAMISTotal
Revenue recognized at a point in time$102 $1,638 $1,740 $97 $1,512 $1,609 $101 $2,640 $2,741 
Revenue recognized over time2,954 1,222 4,176 2,672 1,187 3,859 2,305 1,172 3,477 
Total$3,056 $2,860 $5,916 $2,769 $2,699 $5,468 $2,406 $3,812 $6,218 
Unbilled Receivables, Deferred Revenue and Remaining Performance Obligations
Unbilled receivables
For certain MA arrangements, the timing of when the Company has the unconditional right to consideration and recognizes revenue occurs prior to invoicing the customer. In addition, certain MIS arrangements contain contractual terms whereby the customers are billed in arrears for annual monitoring services, requiring revenue to be accrued as an unbilled receivable as such services are provided.
The following table presents the Company's unbilled receivables, which are included within accounts receivable, net, at December 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022:
As of December 31, 2023
As of December 31, 2022
MAMISMAMIS
Unbilled Receivables$119 $415 $148 $385 
Deferred revenue
The Company recognizes deferred revenue when a contract requires a customer to pay consideration to the Company in advance of when revenue related to that contract is recognized. This deferred revenue is relieved when the Company satisfies the related performance obligation and revenue is recognized.
Significant changes in the deferred revenue balances during the year ended December 31, 2023 are as follows:
Year Ended December 31, 2023
MAMISTotal
Balance at December 31, 2022
$1,055 $278 $1,333 
Changes in deferred revenue
Revenue recognized that was included in the deferred revenue balance at the beginning of the period(980)(211)(1,191)
Increases due to amounts billable excluding amounts recognized as revenue during the period1,015 200 1,215 
Effect of exchange rate changes21 3 24 
Total changes in deferred revenue56 (8)48 
Balance at December 31, 2023
$1,111 $270 $1,381 
Deferred revenue - current$1,109 $207 $1,316 
Deferred revenue - noncurrent$2 $63 $65 
Significant changes in the deferred revenue balances during the year ended December 31, 2022 are as follows:
Year Ended December 31, 2022
MAMISTotal
Balance at December 31, 2021
$1,039 $296 $1,335 
Changes in deferred revenue
Revenue recognized that was included in the deferred revenue balance at the beginning of the period(996)(210)(1,206)
Increases due to amounts billable excluding amounts recognized as revenue during the period1,018 202 1,220 
Increases due to acquisitions during the period1 — 1 
Effect of exchange rate changes(7)(10)(17)
Total changes in deferred revenue16 (18)(2)
Balance at December 31, 2022
$1,055 $278 $1,333 
Deferred revenue - current
$1,053 $205 $1,258 
Deferred revenue - noncurrent
$2 $73 $75 
Significant changes in the deferred revenue balances during the year ended December 31, 2021 are as follows:
Year Ended December 31, 2021
MAMISTotal
Balance at December 31, 2020
$874 $313 $1,187 
Changes in deferred revenue
Revenue recognized that was included in the deferred revenue balance at the beginning of the period(810)(220)(1,030)
Increases due to amounts billable excluding amounts recognized as revenue during the period884 207 1,091 
Increases due to acquisitions during the period94 — 94 
Effect of exchange rate changes(3)(4)(7)
Total changes in deferred revenue165 (17)148 
Balance at December 31, 2021
$1,039 $296 $1,335 
Deferred revenue—current$1,035 $214 $1,249 
Deferred revenue—noncurrent$4 $82 $86 
For the MA segment, for the year ended December 31, 2021, the increase in the deferred revenue balance was primarily due to acquisitions and organic growth.
Remaining performance obligations
Remaining performance obligations in the MA segment include both amounts recorded as deferred revenue on the consolidated balance sheet as of December 31, 2023 as well as amounts not yet invoiced to customers as of December 31, 2023, largely reflecting future revenue related to signed multi-year arrangements for hosted and installed subscription-based products. As of December 31, 2023, the aggregate amount of the transaction price allocated to remaining performance obligations was approximately $3.6 billion. The Company expects to recognize into revenue approximately 60% of this balance within one year, approximately 25% of this balance between one to two years and the remaining amount thereafter.
Remaining performance obligations in the MIS segment largely reflect deferred revenue related to monitoring fees for certain structured finance products, primarily CMBS, where the issuers can elect to pay the monitoring fees for the life of the security in advance. As of December 31, 2023, the aggregate amount of the transaction price allocated to remaining performance obligations was approximately $91 million. The Company expects to recognize into revenue approximately 25% of this balance within one year, approximately 50% of this balance between one to five years and the remaining amount thereafter. With respect to the remaining performance obligations for the MIS segment, the Company has applied a practical expedient set forth in ASC Topic 606 permitting the omission of unsatisfied performance obligations relating to contracts with an original expected length of one year or less.
Costs to Obtain or Fulfill a Contract with a Customer
MA Costs to Obtain a Contract with a Customer
As of December 31,
2023
2022
Capitalized costs to obtain sales contracts$268 $232 
Year ended December 31,
202320222021
Amortization of capitalized costs to obtain sales contracts$102 $80 $60 
Amortization of costs incurred to obtain customer contracts is included within SG&A expenses in the consolidated statements of operations. Costs incurred to obtain customer contracts are only in the MA segment.
MA and MIS Costs to Fulfill a Contract with a Customer
As of December 31, 2023
As of December 31, 2022
MAMISTotalMAMISTotal
Capitalized costs to fulfill sales contracts$35 $9 $44 $33 $12 $45 

Year Ended
December 31, 2023		Year Ended
December 31, 2022		Year Ended
December 31, 2021
MAMISTotalMAMISTotalMAMISTotal
Amortization of capitalized costs to fulfill sales contracts$70 $44 $114 $69 $54 $123 $76 $48 $124 
Amortization of costs to fulfill customer contracts is included within operating expenses in the consolidated statements of operations.
v3.24.0.1
RECONCILIATION OF WEIGHTED AVERAGE SHARES OUTSTANDING
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]  
RECONCILIATION OF WEIGHTED AVERAGE SHARES OUTSTANDING RECONCILIATION OF WEIGHTED AVERAGE SHARES OUTSTANDING
Below is a reconciliation of basic to diluted shares outstanding:
Year Ended December 31,
202320222021
Basic183.2 183.9 186.4 
Dilutive effect of shares issuable under stock-based compensation plans0.8 0.8 1.5 
Diluted184.0 184.7 187.9 
Antidilutive options to purchase common shares and restricted stock as well as contingently issuable restricted stock which are excluded from the table above0.5 0.5 0.2 
The calculation of basic shares outstanding is based on the weighted average number of shares of common stock outstanding during the reporting period. The calculation of diluted EPS requires certain assumptions regarding the use of both cash proceeds and assumed proceeds that would be received upon the exercise of stock options and vesting of restricted stock outstanding as of December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021.
v3.24.0.1
ACCELERATED SHARE REPURCHASE PROGRAM
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Other Liabilities Disclosure [Abstract]  
ACCELERATED SHARE REPURCHASE PROGRAM ACCELERATED SHARE REPURCHASE PROGRAM
On March 1, 2022, the Company entered into an ASR agreement with a financial institution counterparty to repurchase $500 million of its outstanding common stock. The Company paid $500 million to the counterparty and received an initial delivery of 1.2 million shares of its common stock. Final settlement of the ASR agreement was completed in April 2022 and the Company received delivery of an additional 0.3 million shares of the Company’s common stock.
In total, the Company repurchased 1.5 million shares of the Company’s common stock during the term of the ASR Agreement, based on the volume-weighted average price (net of discount) of $324.20/share over the duration of the program. The initial share repurchase and final share settlement were recorded as a reduction to shareholders’ equity.
v3.24.0.1
CASH EQUIVALENTS AND INVESTMENTS
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Cash and Cash Equivalents [Abstract]  
CASH EQUIVALENTS AND INVESTMENTS CASH EQUIVALENTS AND INVESTMENTS
The tables below provide additional information on the Company’s cash equivalents and investments:
As of December 31, 2023
CostGross Unrealized GainsFair Value
Consolidated Balance Sheet location
Cash and cash equivalentsShort-term investmentsOther assets
Certificates of deposit and money market deposit accounts/funds (1)
$1,178 $— $1,178 $1,112 $63 $3 
Mutual funds$91 $6 $97 $— $— $97 
As of December 31, 2022
CostGross Unrealized GainsFair Value
Consolidated Balance Sheet location
Cash and cash equivalentsShort-term investmentsOther assets
Certificates of deposit and money market deposit accounts (1)
$914 $— $914 $808 $90 $16 
Mutual funds$71 $— $71 $— $— $71 
(1)     Consists of time deposits, money market deposit accounts and money market funds. The remaining contractual maturities for the certificates of deposits classified as short-term investments are one month to 12 months at both December 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022. The remaining contractual maturities for the certificates of deposits classified in other assets are 14 months at December 31, 2023 and 13 months to 24 months at December 31, 2022. Time deposits with a maturity of less than 90 days at time of purchase are classified as cash and cash equivalents.
In addition, the Company is invested in COLI. As of December 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022, the contract value of the COLI was $47 million and $40 million, respectively.
v3.24.0.1
DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS AND HEDGING ACTIVITIES
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract]  
DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS AND HEDGING ACTIVITIES DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS AND HEDGING ACTIVITIES
The Company is exposed to global market risks, including risks from changes in FX rates and changes in interest rates. Accordingly, the Company uses derivatives in certain instances to manage the aforementioned financial exposures that occur in the normal course of business. The Company does not hold or issue derivatives for speculative purposes.
Derivatives and non-derivative instruments designated as accounting hedges:
Fair Value Hedges
Interest Rate Swaps
The Company has entered into interest rate swaps to convert the fixed interest rate on certain of its long-term debt to a floating interest rate based on the SOFR. The purpose of these hedges is to mitigate the risk associated with changes in the fair value of the long-term debt, thus the Company has designated these swaps as fair value hedges. The fair value of the swaps is adjusted quarterly with a corresponding adjustment to the carrying value of the debt. The changes in the fair value of the swaps and the underlying hedged item generally offset and the net cash settlements on the swaps are recorded each period within interest expense, net in the Company’s consolidated statements of operations.
The following table summarizes the Company’s interest rate swaps designated as fair value hedges:
Nature of Swap
As of December 31, 2023
As of December 31, 2022
Hedged Item
Notional Amount
Floating 
Interest Rate (1)
Notional Amount
Floating 
Interest Rate
2017 Senior Notes due 2028Pay Floating/Receive Fixed$500 
SOFR
$500  3-month LIBOR
2020 Senior Notes due 2025Pay Floating/Receive Fixed300 SOFR300  6-month LIBOR
2014 Senior Notes due 2044Pay Floating/Receive Fixed300 SOFR300  3-month LIBOR
2018 Senior Notes due 2048Pay Floating/Receive Fixed300 SOFR300  3-month LIBOR
2018 Senior Notes due 2029
Pay Floating/Receive Fixed400 SOFR400  SOFR
2022 Senior Notes due 2052
Pay Floating/Receive Fixed500 SOFR500  SOFR
2022 Senior Notes due 2032
Pay Floating/Receive Fixed250 SOFR250  SOFR
Total$2,550 $2,550 
(1)     Contractual terms of instruments using the 3-month or 6-month LIBOR at December 31, 2022 were modified to the SOFR reference rate in the first quarter of 2023.
Refer to Note 18 for information on the cumulative amount of fair value hedging adjustments included in the carrying amount of the above hedged items.
The following table summarizes the impact to the statements of operations of the Company’s interest rate swaps designated as fair value hedges:
Total amounts of financial statement line item presented in the statements of operations in which the effects of fair value hedges are recordedAmount of Income (Expense)
Recognized in the Consolidated
Statements of Operations
Year Ended December 31,
202320222021
Interest expense, net$(251)$(231)$(171)

Descriptions		Location on Consolidated Statements of Operations
Net interest settlements and accruals on interest rate swapsInterest expense, net$(89)$(8)$23 
Fair value changes on interest rate swapsInterest expense, net$56 $(228)$(60)
Fair value changes on hedged debtInterest expense, net$(56)$228 $60 
Net Investment Hedges
Debt designated as net investment hedges
The Company has designated €500 million of the 2015 Senior Notes Due 2027 and €750 million of the 2019 Senior Notes due 2030 as net investment hedges to mitigate FX exposure related to a portion of the Company’s euro net investment in certain foreign subsidiaries against changes in euro/USD exchange rates. These hedges are designated as accounting hedges under the applicable sections of ASC Topic 815 and will end upon the repayment of the notes in 2027 and 2030, respectively, unless terminated early at the discretion of the Company.
Cross currency swaps designated as net investment hedges
The Company enters into cross-currency swaps to mitigate FX exposure related to a portion of the Company’s euro net investment in certain foreign subsidiaries against changes in euro/USD exchange rates. The following table provides information on the cross-currency swaps designated as net investment hedges under ASC Topic 815:
December 31, 2023
PayReceive
Nature of SwapNotional AmountWeighted Average Interest RateNotional AmountWeighted Average Interest Rate
Pay Fixed/Receive Fixed€765 3.67%$800 5.25%
Pay Floating/Receive Floating2,138 Based on ESTR2,250 Based on SOFR
Total€2,903 $3,050 
December 31, 2022
PayReceive
Nature of SwapNotional AmountWeighted Average Interest RateNotional AmountWeighted Average Interest Rate
Pay Fixed/Receive Fixed€765 3.67%$800 5.25%
Pay Floating/Receive Floating450 Based on 3-month EURIBOR500 Based on 3-month USD LIBOR
Pay Floating/Receive Floating1,688 Based on ESTR1,750 Based on SOFR
Total€2,903 $3,050 
As of December 31, 2023, these hedges will expire and the notional amounts will be settled as follows unless terminated early at the discretion of the Company:
Year Ending December 31,
Notional Amount (Pay)
Notional Amount (Receive)
2026€450 $500 
2027531 550 
2028588 600 
2029373 400 
2031481 500 
2032480 500 
Total€2,903 $3,050 
The following table provides information on the gains/(losses) on the Company’s net investment and cash flow hedges:
Amount of Gain/(Loss)
Recognized in AOCL on
Derivative, net of Tax
Amount of Gain/(Loss)
Reclassified from AOCL into Income, net of tax
Gain/(Loss) Recognized in
Income on Derivative
(Amount Excluded from
Effectiveness Testing)
Derivative and Non-Derivative Instruments in Net Investment Hedging RelationshipsYear Ended December 31,Year Ended December 31,Year Ended December 31,
202320222021202320222021202320222021
FX forward contracts$— $— $18 $— $— $1 $— $— $— 
Cross currency swaps(97)99 143 — — — 54 56 35 
Long-term debt(35)65 81 — — — — — — 
Total net investment hedges$(132)$164 $242 $— $— $1 $54 $56 $35 
Derivatives in Cash Flow Hedging Relationships
Cross currency swaps$— $— $— $1 $— $— $— $— $— 
Interest rate contracts— — — (2)(2)(2)— — — 
Total cash flow hedges$— $— $— $(1)$(2)$(2)$— $— $— 
Total$(132)$164 $242 $(1)$(2)$(1)$54 $56 $35 
The cumulative amount of net investment hedge and cash flow hedge gains (losses) remaining in AOCL is as follows:
Cumulative Gains/(Losses), net of tax
December 31, 2023December 31, 2022
Net investment hedges
Cross currency swaps$21 $118 
FX forwards 29 29 
Long-term debt 3 38 
Total net investment hedges53 185 
Cash flow hedges
Interest rate contracts(45)(47)
Cross-currency swaps1 2 
Total cash flow hedges(44)(45)
Total net gain in AOCL
$9 $140 
Derivatives not designated as accounting hedges:
Foreign exchange forwards
The Company also enters into foreign exchange forward contracts to mitigate the change in fair value on certain assets and liabilities denominated in currencies other than a subsidiary’s functional currency. These forward contracts are not designated as accounting hedges under the applicable sections of ASC Topic 815. Accordingly, changes in the fair value of these contracts are recognized immediately in other non-operating income, net in the Company’s consolidated statements of operations along with the FX gain or loss recognized on the assets and liabilities denominated in a currency other than the subsidiary’s functional currency. These contracts have expiration dates at various times through August 2024.
The following table summarizes the notional amounts of the Company’s outstanding foreign exchange forwards:
 December 31, 2023December 31, 2022
Notional Amount of Currency Pair:SellBuySellBuy
Contracts to sell USD for GBP$513 
£
407 $170 
£
146 
Contracts to sell USD for Japanese yen$14 ¥2,000 $24 ¥3,500 
Contracts to sell USD for Canadian dollars$147 
C$
200 $87 C$120 
Contracts to sell USD for Singapore dollars$50 
S$
67 $50 
S$
70 
Contracts to sell USD for euros$60 
€
55 $116 
€
115 
Contracts to sell USD for Indian rupee$23 
₹
1,900 $19 
₹
1,600 
Contracts to sell euros for USD€— $— €85 $89 
Contracts to sell USD for AUD$5 
A$
8 $— 
A$
— 
Contracts to sell Canadian dollars for USDC$25 
$
19 C$— 
$
— 
NOTE: € = euro, £ = British pound, S$ = Singapore dollar, $ = U.S. dollar, ¥ = Japanese yen, C$ = Canadian dollar, ₹= Indian rupee, A$ = Australian dollar
Total Return Swaps
Beginning in the second quarter of 2023, the Company entered into total return swaps to mitigate market-driven changes in the value of certain liabilities associated with the Company's deferred compensation plans. The notional amount of the total return swaps as of December 31, 2023 was $58 million.
The following table summarizes the impact to the consolidated statements of operations relating to the net gains and (losses) on the Company’s derivatives which are not designated as hedging instruments:
Year Ended December 31,
Derivatives Not Designated as Accounting Hedges
Consolidated Statements of Operations Location
202320222021
FX forwardsOther non-operating income, net$15 $(72)$(27)
Foreign exchange forwards relating to RMS acquisition (1)
Other non-operating income, net$— $— $(13)
Total return swaps
Operating expense
$2 $— $— 
Total return swaps
SG&A expense
$1 $— $— 
(1)     The Company entered into forward contracts to sell $1,675 million for £1,200 million to hedge a portion of the GBP denominated RMS purchase price. The contract was terminated on September 14, 2021 and resulted in a $13 million loss.
The table below shows the classification between assets and liabilities on the Company’s consolidated balance sheets for the fair value of the derivative instruments as well as the carrying value of its non-derivative debt instruments designated and qualifying as net investment hedges:
Derivative and Non-derivative Instruments
Consolidated Balance Sheet Location
December 31, 2023December 31, 2022
Assets:
Derivatives designated as accounting hedges:
Cross-currency swaps designated as net investment hedgesOther assets$3 $27 
Derivatives not designated as accounting hedges:
FX forwards on certain assets and liabilitiesOther current assets13 19 
Total assets$16 $46 
Liabilities:
Derivatives designated as accounting hedges:
Cross-currency swaps designated as net investment hedgesOther liabilities$183 $78 
Interest rate swaps designated as fair value hedgesOther liabilities183 239 
Total derivatives designated as accounting hedges366 317 
Non-derivative instruments designated as accounting hedge:
Long-term debt designated as net investment hedgeLong-term debt1,381 1,334 
Derivatives not designated as accounting hedges:
FX forwards on certain assets and liabilitiesAccounts payable and accrued liabilities— 2 
Total liabilities$1,747 $1,653 
v3.24.0.1
PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT, NET
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract]  
PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT, NET PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT, NET
Property and equipment, net consisted of:
December 31,
20232022
Office and computer equipment (3 - 10 year estimated useful life)
$354 $339 
Office furniture and fixtures (3 - 10 year estimated useful life)
57 54 
Internal-use computer software (1 - 10 year estimated useful life)
1,232 995 
Leasehold improvements and building (1 - 20 year estimated useful life)
232 237 
Total property and equipment, at cost1,875 1,625 
Less: accumulated depreciation and amortization(1,272)(1,123)
Total property and equipment, net$603 $502 
The increase in internal-use computer software in the table above primarily relates to capitalized software development costs pursuant to MA's strategic shift to SaaS-based solutions. Depreciation and amortization expense related to the above assets for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022, and 2021 was $175 million, $131 million, and $99 million, respectively, of which $121 million, $79 million, and $54 million, respectively, related to amortization of internal-use computer software.
On a weighted-average basis, Moody's internal-use computer software has an estimated useful life of approximately 4.5 years.
v3.24.0.1
ACQUISITION
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Business Combination and Asset Acquisition [Abstract]  
ACQUISITION ACQUISITION
The material business combination described below is accounted for using the acquisition method of accounting whereby assets acquired and liabilities assumed were recognized at fair value on the date of the transaction. Any excess of the purchase price over the fair value of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed was recorded to goodwill. Goodwill typically results through expected synergies from combining operations of an acquiree and an acquirer, anticipated new customer acquisition and products, as well as from intangible assets that do not qualify for separate recognition.
RMS
On September 15, 2021, the Company acquired 100% of RMS, a global provider of climate and natural disaster risk modeling and analytics. The cash payment was funded with new debt financing and a combination of U.S. and offshore cash on hand. The acquisition expands Moody’s insurance data and analytics business and accelerates the development of the Company’s global integrated risk capabilities to address the next generation of risk assessment.


The table below details the total consideration relating to the acquisition:
Cash paid at closing $1,922 
Replacement equity compensation awards5 
Total consideration$1,927 

Shown below is the purchase price allocation, which summarizes the fair value of the assets and liabilities assumed, at the date of acquisition:
Cash
$55 
Accounts receivable38 
Other current assets
12 
Property and equipment 13 
Operating lease right-of-use assets64 
Intangible assets:
Customer relationships (23 year useful life)
$518 
Product technology (7 year useful life)
212 
Trade name (9 year useful life)
49 
Total intangible assets (18 year weighted average useful life)
779 
Goodwill
1,357 
Deferred tax assets, net50 
Other assets99 
Liabilities:
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities
$(96)
Deferred revenue(89)
Operating lease liabilities(68)
Deferred tax liabilities, net(214)
Uncertain tax positions
(71)
Other liabilities(2)
Total liabilities(540)
Net assets acquired$1,927 
Goodwill
The goodwill recognized as a result of this acquisition includes, among other things, the value of combining the complementary product portfolios of Moody's and RMS, which is expected to extend the Company's reach into new market segments. The goodwill also includes the combined company's ability to accelerate technology innovations into new product adjacencies (leveraging RMS's team of data scientists, modelers and software engineers) as well as combining RMS's products with Moody’s core data and analytics offerings to provide holistic integrated risk solutions.
Goodwill, of which $1,267 million and $90 million has been assigned to the MA and MIS segments, respectively, is not deductible for tax purposes. The amount of goodwill allocated to the MIS segment relates to the integration of certain of RMS's models/processes into the Company's ESG solutions offerings.
Other assets in the table above includes an indemnification asset of $95 million related to uncertain tax positions assumed in the transaction, for which the Company expects to be indemnified by the sellers in the event of an unfavorable outcome.
Transaction costs
Transaction costs directly related to the RMS acquisition were $22 million and were recorded in SG&A expenses in the consolidated statement of operations for the year ended December 31, 2021.
Supplementary Unaudited Pro Forma Information
Supplemental information on an unaudited pro forma basis is presented below for the twelve months ended December 31, 2021 as if the acquisition of RMS occurred on January 1, 2021. The pro forma financial information is presented for comparative purposes only, based on certain estimates and assumptions, which the Company believes to be reasonable but not necessarily indicative of future results of operations or the results that would have been reported if the acquisition had been completed at January 1, 2021. The unaudited pro forma information includes amortization of acquired intangible assets, based on the purchase price allocation and an estimate of useful lives reflected above, and incremental financing costs resulting from the acquisition, net of income tax, which was estimated using the weighted average statutory tax rates in effect in the jurisdiction for which the pro forma adjustment relates. 
Unaudited Year Ended December 31, 2021
Pro forma Revenue $6,463 
Pro forma Net Income attributable to Moody's$2,244 
The unaudited pro forma results do not include any anticipated cost savings or other effects of the planned integration of RMS. Accordingly, the pro forma results above are not necessarily indicative of the results that would have been reported if the acquisition had occurred on the dates indicated, nor are the pro forma results indicative of results which may occur in the future. The RMS results included in the above have been converted to GAAP from IFRS as issued by the IASB and have been translated to USD at rates in effect for the periods presented. The RMS amounts in the pro forma results include an addition to revenue of approximately $18 million relating to a fair value adjustment to deferred revenue required as part of acquisition accounting for the year ended December 31, 2021.
v3.24.0.1
GOODWILL AND OTHER ACQUIRED INTANGIBLE ASSETS
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]  
GOODWILL AND OTHER ACQUIRED INTANGIBLE ASSETS GOODWILL AND OTHER ACQUIRED INTANGIBLE ASSETS
The following tables summarize the activity in goodwill:
Year Ended December 31, 2023
MAMISConsolidated
Gross
goodwill		Accumulated
impairment
charge		Net
goodwill		Gross
goodwill		Accumulated
impairment
charge		Net
goodwill		Gross
goodwill		Accumulated
impairment
charge		Net
goodwill
Balance at beginning of year$5,474 $(12)$5,462 $377 $— $377 $5,851 $(12)$5,839 
Additions/
adjustments (1)
90 — 90 (87)— (87)3 — 3 
Foreign currency translation adjustments117 — 117 (3)— (3)114 — 114 
Ending Balance$5,681 $(12)$5,669 $287 $— $287 $5,968 $(12)$5,956 
Year Ended December 31, 2022
MAMISConsolidated
Gross
goodwill		Accumulated
impairment
charge		Net
goodwill		Gross
goodwill		Accumulated
impairment
charge		Net
goodwill		Gross
goodwill		Accumulated
impairment
charge		Net
goodwill
Balance at beginning of year$5,615 $(12)$5,603 $396 $— $396 $6,011 $(12)$5,999 
Additions/
adjustments (2)
88 — 88 4 — 4 92 — 92 
Foreign currency translation adjustments(229)— (229)(23)— (23)(252)— (252)
Ending balance$5,474 $(12)$5,462 $377 $— $377 $5,851 $(12)$5,839 
(1)The 2023 additions/adjustments primarily relate to a reallocation of goodwill pursuant to a realignment of certain components of the Company's ESG business in the first quarter of 2023.
(2)The 2022 additions/adjustments for the MA segment in the table above primarily relate to the acquisition of kompany in the first quarter of 2022, partially offset by RMS measurement period adjustments in the third quarter of 2022.
Acquired intangible assets and related accumulated amortization consisted of:
December 31,
20232022
Customer relationships$2,065 $2,024 
Accumulated amortization(556)(453)
Net customer relationships1,509 1,571 
Software/product technology674 661 
Accumulated amortization(364)(283)
Net software/product technology310 378 
Database179 178 
Accumulated amortization(82)(64)
Net database97 114 
Trade names199 197 
Accumulated amortization(72)(58)
Net trade names127 139 
Other (1)
52 52 
Accumulated amortization(46)(44)
Net other6 8 
Total$2,049 $2,210 
(1)Other intangible assets primarily consist of trade secrets, covenants not to compete, and acquired ratings methodologies and models.
Amortization expense relating to acquired intangible assets is as follows:
Year Ended December 31,
202320222021
Amortization expense$198 $200 $158 
Estimated future annual amortization expense for intangible assets subject to amortization is as follows:
Year Ending December 31,
2024$193 
2025190 
2026186 
2027170 
2028158 
Thereafter1,152 
Total estimated future amortization$2,049 
v3.24.0.1
RESTRUCTURING
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Restructuring and Related Activities [Abstract]  
RESTRUCTURING RESTRUCTURING
On June 30, 2022, the chief executive officer of Moody’s approved the 2022 - 2023 Geolocation Restructuring Program. The Company estimates that the program will result in annualized savings of $145 million to $165 million per year. This program relates to the Company's post-COVID-19 geolocation strategy and other strategic initiatives and includes the rationalization and exit of certain leased office spaces and a reduction in staff, including the relocation of certain job functions. Cumulative charges related to this program are shown in the table below. The savings generated from the 2022 - 2023 Geolocation Restructuring Program are expected to strengthen the Company's operating margin, with a portion being deployed to support strategic investments, including the Company's workplace of the future program and employee retention initiatives. The 2022 - 2023 Geolocation Restructuring Program is substantially complete as of December 31, 2023. Cash outlays associated with this program, which primarily relate to personnel-related costs, are expected to be $130 million to $140 million, substantially all of which are expected to be paid by the end of 2024.
Total expenses included in the accompanying consolidated statements of operations relating to the Company's 2022 - 2023 Geolocation Restructuring Program are as follows (table excludes immaterial adjustments relating to the finalization of prior programs in previous years):
Year ended December 31,
Cumulative expense incurred
2022 - 2023 Geolocation Restructuring Program
20232022
Employee Termination Costs (1)
$51 $85 $136 
Real Estate Related Costs (2)
36 27 63 
Other Costs (3)
— 1 1 
Total Restructuring$87 $113 $200 
(1)Amount in the year ended December 31, 2023 includes severance costs, while amount in the year ended December 31, 2022 includes both severance costs and expense related to the modification of equity awards.
(2)For the year ended December 31, 2023, primarily includes ROU Asset impairment charges. For the year ended December 31, 2022, primarily includes ROU Asset and leasehold improvement impairment charges and the non-cash acceleration of amortization of abandoned ROU Assets and leasehold improvements. The fair value of the impaired assets in both periods was determined by utilizing the present value of the estimated future cash flows attributable to the assets. The fair value of those assets subsequent to the impairment for the year ended December 31, 2023 was $4 million and was categorized as Level 3 within the ASC Topic 820 fair value hierarchy. The fair value of those assets subsequent to the impairment for the year ended December 31, 2022 was $0.
(3)Primarily includes professional service fees related to execution of the restructuring program.
Changes to the restructuring liability were as follows:
20232022
Balance as of January 1$65 $4 
2020 MA Strategic Reorganization Restructuring Program:
Cost incurred and adjustments— (1)
Cash payments(1)(2)
2022 - 2023 Geolocation Restructuring Program:
Cost incurred and adjustments51 86 
Cash payments and adjustments
(79)(22)
Balance as of December 31 (1)
$36 $65 
(1)Restructuring liability is primarily comprised of employee termination costs, with an immaterial amount of real estate-related and other costs. Amounts related to the year ended December 31, 2021 are not considered material for disclosure.
As of December 31, 2023, substantially all of the remaining $36 million restructuring liability is expected to be paid out in 2024.
v3.24.0.1
FAIR VALUE
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]  
FAIR VALUE FAIR VALUE
The tables below present information about items that are carried at fair value at December 31, 2023 and 2022:
Fair value Measurement as of December 31, 2023
DescriptionBalanceLevel 1Level 2
Assets:
Derivatives (1)
$16 $— $16 
Money market funds/mutual funds
107 107 — 
Total$123 $107 $16 
Liabilities:
Derivatives (1)
$366 $— $366 
Total$366 $— $366 
Fair Value Measurement as of December 31, 2022
DescriptionBalanceLevel 1Level 2
Assets:
Derivatives (1)
$46 $— $46 
Mutual funds71 71 — 
Total$117 $71 $46 
Liabilities:
Derivatives (1)
$319 $— $319 
Total$319 $— $319 
(1)Represents fair value of certain derivative contracts as more fully described in Note 7 to the consolidated financial statements.
The following are descriptions of the methodologies utilized by the Company to estimate the fair value of its derivative contracts and money market funds and mutual funds:
Derivatives:
In determining the fair value of the derivative contracts in the table above, the Company utilizes industry standard valuation models. Where applicable, these models project future cash flows and discount the future amounts to a present value using spot rates, forward points, currency volatilities, interest rates as well as the risk of non-performance of the Company and the counterparties with whom it has derivative contracts. The Company established strict counterparty credit guidelines and only enters into transactions with financial institutions that adhere to these guidelines. Accordingly, the risk of counterparty default is deemed to be minimal.
Money market funds and mutual funds:
The money market funds and mutual funds in the table above are deemed to be equity securities with readily determinable fair values with changes in fair value recognized through net income under ASC Topic 321. The fair value of these instruments is determined using Level 1 inputs as defined in the ASC Topic 820.
v3.24.0.1
OTHER BALANCE SHEET INFORMATION
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Other Balance Sheet Information [Abstract]  
OTHER BALANCE SHEET INFORMATION OTHER BALANCE SHEET INFORMATION
The following tables contain additional detail related to certain balance sheet captions:
December 31,
20232022
Other current assets:
Prepaid taxes$115 $235 
Prepaid expenses133 119 
Capitalized costs to obtain and fulfill sales contracts116 106 
Foreign exchange forwards on certain assets and liabilities13 19 
Interest receivable on interest rate and cross currency swaps79 74 
Other33 30 
Total other current assets$489 $583 
December 31,
20232022
Other assets:
Investments in non-consolidated affiliates$521 $517 
Deposits for real-estate leases16 15 
Indemnification assets related to acquisitions111 110 
Mutual funds, certificates of deposit and money market deposit accounts/funds
100 87 
Company owned life insurance (at contract value)47 40 
Costs to obtain sales contracts196 171 
Derivative instruments designated as accounting hedges3 27 
Pension and other retirement employee benefits41 40 
Other103 85 
Total other assets$1,138 $1,092 
December 31,
20232022
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities:
Salaries and benefits$130 $104 
Incentive compensation345 276 
Customer credits, advanced payments and advanced billings105 102 
Dividends7 6 
Professional service fees46 49 
Interest accrued on debt83 92 
Accounts payable23 52 
Income taxes108 86 
Pension and other retirement employee benefits15 7 
Accrued royalties24 23 
Foreign exchange forwards on certain assets and liabilities— 2 
Restructuring liability35 65 
Interest payable on interest rate and cross currency swaps67 52 
Other88 95 
Total accounts payable and accrued liabilities$1,076 $1,011 
December 31,
20232022
Other liabilities:
Pension and other retirement employee benefits$190 $189 
Interest accrued on UTPs36 47 
MAKS indemnification provisions19 23 
Income tax liability – non-current portion15 48 
Derivative instruments designated as accounting hedges366 317 
Restructuring liability – non-current portion1 — 
Other49 50 
Total other liabilities$676 $674 
Investments in non-consolidated affiliates:
The following table provides additional detail regarding Moody's investments in non-consolidated affiliates, as included in other assets in the consolidated balance sheets:
December 31,
20232022
Equity method investments (1)
$186 $187 
Investments measured using the measurement alternative (2)
327 325 
Other8 5 
Total investments in non-consolidated affiliates$521 $517 
(1)Equity securities in which the Company has significant influence over the investee but does not have a controlling financial interest in accordance with ASC Topic 323.
(2)Equity securities without readily determinable fair value for which the Company has elected to apply the measurement alternative in accordance with ASC Topic 321, which is more fully discussed in Note 2.
Moody's holds various investments accounted for under the equity method, the most significant of which is the Company's minority investment in CCXI. Moody's also holds various investments measured using the measurement alternative, the most significant of which is the Company's minority interest in BitSight.
Refer to Note 24 for disclosure on earnings from non-consolidated affiliates, which are included within other non-operating income, net.
v3.24.0.1
COMPREHENSIVE INCOME AND ACCUMULATED OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Equity [Abstract]  
COMPREHENSIVE INCOME AND ACCUMULATED OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME COMPREHENSIVE INCOME AND ACCUMULATED OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
The following table provides details about the reclassifications out of AOCL:
Year Ended December 31,
Location in the Consolidated
Statements of Operations
202320222021
Losses on currency translation adjustments
Foreign currency translation adjustments - reclassification of losses included in net income$— $(20)$— Other non-operating income, net
Total losses on currency translation adjustments— (20)— 
Losses on cash flow hedges
Cross-currency swap1 1 — Other non-operating income, net
Interest rate contract(3)(3)(2)Other non-operating income, net
Total before income taxes(2)(2)(2)
Income tax effect of item above1 — — Provision for income taxes
Total net losses on cash flow hedges(1)(2)(2)
Gains on net investment hedges
FX forwards— — 2 Other non-operating income, net
Total before income taxes— — 2 
Income tax effect of item above— — (1)Provision for income taxes
Total net gains on net investment hedges— — 1 
Pension and other retirement benefits
Amortization of actuarial gains (losses), prior service credits (costs), and settlement gain (charge) included in net income
2 (3)(11)Other non-operating income, net
Settlement credit (charge)
1 — (8)Other non-operating income, net
Total before income taxes3 (3)(19)
Income tax effect of item above— 1 5 Provision for income taxes
Total pension and other retirement benefits3 (2)(14)
Total net gains (losses) included in Net Income attributable to reclassifications out of AOCL
$2 $(24)$(15)
The following tables show changes in AOCL by component (net of tax):
Year Ended December 31, 2023
Pension and 
Other Retirement Benefits
Gains/(Losses) on Cash Flow Hedges
Foreign 
Currency Translation Adjustments		Net Investment HedgesTotal
Balance at December 31, 2022
$(47)$(45)$(736)$185 $(643)
Other comprehensive income/(loss) before reclassifications(6)— 216 (132)78 
Amounts reclassified from AOCL(3)1 — — (2)
Other comprehensive income/(loss)(9)1 216 (132)76 
Balance at December 31, 2023
$(56)$(44)$(520)$53 $(567)
Year Ended December 31, 2022
Pension and 
Other Retirement Benefits
Gains/(Losses) on Cash Flow Hedges
Foreign 
Currency Translation Adjustments		Net Investment HedgesTotal
Balance at December 31, 2021
$(49)$(47)$(335)$21 $(410)
Other comprehensive income/(loss) before reclassifications— — (421)164 (257)
Amounts reclassified from AOCL2 2 20 — 24 
Other comprehensive income/(loss)2 2 (401)164 (233)
Balance at December 31, 2022
$(47)$(45)$(736)$185 $(643)
Year Ended December 31, 2021
Pension and 
Other Retirement Benefits
Gains/(Losses) on Cash Flow Hedges
Foreign 
Currency Translation Adjustments		Net Investment HedgesTotal
Balance at December 31, 2020
$(118)$(49)$(45)$(220)$(432)
Other comprehensive income/(loss) before reclassifications55 — (290)242 7 
Amounts reclassified from AOCL14 2 — (1)15 
Other comprehensive income/(loss)69 2 (290)241 22 
Balance at December 31, 2021
$(49)$(47)$(335)$21 $(410)
v3.24.0.1
PENSION AND OTHER RETIREMENT BENEFITS
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Retirement Benefits [Abstract]  
PENSION AND OTHER RETIREMENT BENEFITS PENSION AND OTHER RETIREMENT BENEFITS
U.S. Plans
Moody’s maintains funded and unfunded noncontributory DBPPs. The DBPPs provide defined benefits using a cash balance formula based on years of service and career average salary or final average pay for selected executives. The Company also provides certain healthcare and life insurance benefits for retired U.S. employees. The retirement healthcare plans are contributory; the life insurance plans are noncontributory. Moody’s funded and unfunded U.S. pension plans, the U.S. retirement healthcare plans and the U.S. retirement life insurance plans are collectively referred to herein as the “Retirement Plans.” The U.S. retirement healthcare plans and the U.S. retirement life insurance plans are collectively referred to herein as the “Other Retirement Plans.”
Through 2007, substantially all U.S. employees were eligible to participate in the Company’s DBPPs. Effective January 1, 2008, the Company no longer offers DBPPs to U.S. employees hired or rehired on or after January 1, 2008, and new hires in the U.S. instead will receive a retirement contribution in similar benefit value under the Company’s Profit Participation Plan. Current participants of the Company’s Retirement Plans and Other Retirement Plans continue to accrue benefits based on existing plan benefit formulas.
The following is a summary of changes in benefit obligations and fair value of plan assets for the Retirement Plans for the years ended December 31:
Pension PlansOther Retirement Plans
2023202220232022
Change in benefit obligation:
Benefit obligation, beginning of the period$(462)$(570)$(39)$(48)
Service cost(11)(14)(3)(4)
Interest cost(22)(15)(2)(1)
Plan participants’ contributions— — (1)(1)
Benefits paid30 20 2 2 
Actuarial (loss) gain (4)1 2 — 
Assumption changes(15)116 (1)13 
Benefit obligation, end of the period$(484)$(462)$(42)$(39)
Change in plan assets:
Fair value of plan assets, beginning of the period$420 $544 $— $— 
Actual return on plan assets48 (111)— — 
Benefits paid(30)(20)(2)(2)
Employer contributions11 7 1 1 
Plan participants’ contributions— — 1 1 
Fair value of plan assets, end of the period$449 $420 $— $— 
Funded status of the plans$(35)$(42)$(42)$(39)
Amounts recorded on the consolidated balance sheets:
Pension and retirement benefits asset – non current$40 $39 $— $— 
Pension and retirement benefits liability – current(13)(5)(2)(2)
Pension and retirement benefits liability – non current(62)(76)(40)(37)
Net amount recognized$(35)$(42)$(42)$(39)
Accumulated benefit obligation, end of the period$(453)$(432)
The net increase in the pension benefit obligation from assumption changes and actuarial losses in 2023 primarily resulted from decreases to the discount rates as well as an increase to the annuity conversion rate. The net decrease in the pension benefit obligation from assumption changes and actuarial gains in 2022 primarily resulted from increases to discount rates, partially offset by an increase to the annuity conversion rate.
The following information is for those pension plans with an accumulated benefit obligation in excess of plan assets:
December 31,
20232022
Aggregate projected benefit obligation$75 $82 
Aggregate accumulated benefit obligation$67 $72 
The following table summarizes the pre-tax net actuarial losses and prior service costs recognized in AOCL for the Company’s Retirement Plans as of December 31:
Pension PlansOther Retirement Plans
2023202220232022
Net actuarial gains (losses)
$(82)$(77)$10 $9 
Net prior service credits1 2 — — 
Total recognized in AOCL – pre-tax
$(81)$(75)$10 $9 
Net periodic pension (income) expenses recognized for the Retirement Plans are as follows for the years ended December 31:
Pension PlansOther Retirement Plans
202320222021202320222021
Components of net periodic expense
Service cost$11 $14 $19 $3 $4 $4 
Interest cost22 15 14 2 1 1 
Expected return on plan assets(32)(26)(27)— — — 
Amortization of net actuarial (gains) losses and prior service credits from earlier periods
(1)3 11 (1)— 1 
(Gain) loss on settlement of pension obligations
(2)— 8 — — — 
Net periodic (income) expense
$(2)$6 $25 $4 $5 $6 
The following table summarizes the pre-tax amounts recorded in OCI related to the Company’s Retirement Plans for the years ended December 31:
Pension PlansOther Retirement Plans
202320222021202320222021
Amortization of net actuarial (gains) losses and prior service credit
$(1)$3 $11 $(1)$— $1 
Settlement (gain) loss
(2)— 8 — — — 
Net actuarial (loss)/gain arising during the period(3)(19)65 1 13 4 
Total recognized in OCI – pre-tax$(6)$(16)$84 $— $13 $5 
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
Assumptions—Retirement Plans
Weighted-average assumptions used to determine benefit obligations at December 31:
Pension PlansOther Retirement Plans
2023202220232022
Discount rate4.73 %4.93 %4.75 %4.90 %
Rate of compensation increase3.60 %3.63 %— — 
Weighted-average assumptions used to determine net periodic benefit expense for years ended December 31:
Pension PlansOther Retirement Plans
202320222021202320222021
Discount rate4.93 %2.60 %2.24 %4.90 %2.65 %2.30 %
Expected return on plan assets6.55 %5.05 %5.45 %— — — 
Rate of compensation increase3.63 %3.63 %3.62 %— — — 
Cash balance plan interest crediting rate4.50 %4.50 %4.50 %— — — 
The expected rate of return on plan assets represents the Company’s best estimate of the long-term return on plan assets and is determined by using a building block approach, which generally weighs the underlying long-term expected rate of return for each major asset class based on their respective allocation target within the plan portfolio, net of plan paid expenses. As the assumption reflects a long-term time horizon, the plan performance in any one particular year does not, by itself, significantly influence the Company’s evaluation. For 2023, the expected rate of return used in calculating the net periodic benefit costs was 6.55%. For 2024, the Company’s expected rate of return assumption is 6.10% to reflect the Company’s current view of long-term capital market outlook.
Plan Assets
Moody’s investment objective for the assets in the funded pension plan is to earn total returns that will minimize future contribution requirements over the long-term within a prudent level of risk. The Company works with its independent investment consultants to determine asset allocation targets for its pension plan investment portfolio based on its assessment of business and financial conditions, demographic and actuarial data, funding characteristics, and related risk factors. Other relevant factors, including historical and forward looking views of inflation and capital market returns, are also considered. Risk management practices include monitoring plan asset performance, diversification across asset classes and investment styles and periodic rebalancing toward asset allocation targets. The Company’s Asset Management Committee is responsible for overseeing the investment activities of the plan, which includes selecting acceptable asset classes, defining allowable ranges of holdings by asset class and by individual investment managers, defining acceptable securities within each asset class, and establishing investment performance expectations. Ongoing monitoring of the plan includes reviews of investment performance and managers on a regular basis, annual liability measurements, and periodic asset/liability studies.
The Company’s investment policy uses risk-controlled investment strategies by increasing the plan’s asset allocation to fixed income securities and specifying ranges of acceptable target allocation by asset class based on different levels of the plan’s accounting funded status. In addition, the investment policy also requires the investment-grade fixed income assets to be rebalanced between shorter and longer duration bonds as the interest rate environment changes. This investment policy is designed to help protect the plan’s funded status and to limit volatility of the Company’s contributions. Based on the policy, the Company’s current target asset allocation is approximately 35% (range of 23% to 46%) in equity securities, 61% (range of 44% to 77%) in fixed income securities and 5% (range of 2% to 8%) in other investments and the plan will use a combination of active and passive investment strategies and different investment styles for its investment portfolios within each asset class. The plan’s equity investments are diversified across U.S. and non-U.S. stocks of small, medium and large capitalization. The plan’s fixed income investments are diversified principally across U.S. and non-U.S. government and corporate bonds, which are expected to help reduce plan exposure to interest rate variation and to better align assets with obligations. The plan also invests in other fixed income investments such as debts rated below investment grade, emerging market debt, and convertible securities. The plan’s other investment, which is made through a private real estate debt fund, is expected to provide additional diversification benefits and absolute return enhancement to the plan assets.
Fair value of the assets in the Company’s funded pension plan by asset category at December 31, 2023 and 2022 are as follows:
Fair Value Measurement as of December 31, 2023
Asset CategoryBalanceLevel 1Level 2
Measured using NAV practical expedient (1)
% of total
assets
Cash and cash equivalents
$5 $— $5 $— 1 %
Common/collective trust funds—equity securities
U.S. large-cap106 — 106 — 24 %
U.S. small and mid-cap21 — 21 — 5 %
Emerging markets20 — 20 — 4 %
Total equity investments147 — 147 — 33 %
Emerging markets bond fund29 — — 29 6 %
Common/collective trust funds and corporate bonds—fixed income securities
Intermediate-term investment grade U.S. government/ corporate bonds60 — 60 — 13 %
Mutual funds
Long duration corporate bonds144 — 144 — 32 %
U.S. Treasury Inflation-Protected Securities (TIPs)25 25 — — 6 %
Private investment fund—high yield securities14 — — 14 3 %
Total fixed-income investments272 25 204 43 60 %
Other investment—private real estate fund25 — — 25 5 %
Total Assets$449 $25 $356 $68 100 %
Fair Value Measurement as of December 31, 2022
Asset CategoryBalanceLevel 1Level 2
Measured using NAV practical expedient (1)
% of total
assets
Cash and cash equivalents
$5 $— $5 $— 1 %
Common/collective trust funds—equity securities
U.S. large-cap96 — 96 — 23 %
U.S. small and mid-cap17 — 17 — 4 %
Emerging markets19 — 19 — 5 %
Total equity investments132 — 132 — 31 %
Emerging markets bond fund26 — — 26 6 %
Common/collective trust funds and corporate bonds—fixed income securities
Intermediate-term investment grade U.S. government/ corporate bonds54 — 54 — 13 %
Mutual funds
Long duration corporate bonds126 — 126 — 30 %
U.S. Treasury Inflation-Protected Securities (TIPs)24 24 — — 6 %
Convertible securities14 14 — — 3 %
Private investment fund—high yield securities12 — — 12 3 %
Total fixed-income investments256 38 180 38 61 %
Other investment—private real estate debt fund27 — — 27 6 %
Total Assets$420 $38 $317 $65 100 %
(1)Investments are measured using the net asset value per share (or its equivalent) practical expedient and have not been categorized in the fair value hierarchy. The fair value amounts presented in the table are intended to permit a reconciliation of the fair value hierarchy to the value of the total plan assets.
Cash and cash equivalents are primarily comprised of investments in money market mutual funds. In determining fair value, Level 1 investments are valued based on quoted market prices in active markets. Investments in common/collective trust and private mutual funds are valued using the NAV per unit in each fund. The NAV is based on the value of the underlying investments owned by each fund, minus its liabilities, and then divided by the number of shares outstanding. Common/collective trust funds and the private mutual fund are categorized in Level 2 to the extent that they are considered to have a readily determinable fair value. Investments for which fair value is estimated by using the NAV per share (or its equivalent) as a practical expedient are not categorized in the fair value hierarchy.
Except for the Company’s U.S. funded pension plan, all of Moody’s Retirement Plans are unfunded and therefore have no plan assets.
Cash Flows
The Company did not contribute to its U.S. funded pension plan during the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022. The Company made payments of $11 million and $7 million related to its U.S. unfunded pension plan obligations during the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively. The Company currently does not anticipate making a contribution to its funded pension plan in 2024, and anticipates making payments of $13 million related to its unfunded U.S. pension plans and immaterial payments related to its other Retirement Plans during the year ended December 31, 2024.
Estimated Future Benefits Payable
Estimated future benefits payments for the Retirement Plans are as follows as of the year ended December 31, 2023:
Year Ending December 31,Pension PlansOther Retirement Plans
2024$28 $2 
202525 2 
202628 2 
202730 2 
202830 3 
2029 - 2033167 18 
Defined Contribution Plans
Moody’s has a Profit Participation Plan covering substantially all U.S. employees. The Profit Participation Plan provides for an employee salary deferral and the Company matches employee contributions, equal to 50% of employee contribution up to a maximum of 3% of the employee’s pay. Effective January 1, 2008, all new hires are automatically enrolled in the Profit Participation Plan when they meet eligibility requirements unless they decline participation. As the Company’s U.S. DBPPs are closed to new entrants effective January 1, 2008, all eligible new hires will instead receive a retirement contribution into the Profit Participation Plan in value similar to the pension benefits. Additionally, effective January 1, 2008, the Company implemented a deferred compensation plan in the U.S., which is unfunded and provides for employee deferral of compensation and Company matching contributions related to compensation in excess of the IRS limitations on benefits and contributions under qualified retirement plans. Total expenses associated with U.S. defined contribution plans were $71 million, $35 million and $54 million in the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively.
Effective January 1, 2008, Moody’s has designated the Moody’s Stock Fund, an investment option under the Profit Participation Plan, as an Employee Stock Ownership Plan and, as a result, participants in the Moody’s Stock Fund may receive dividends in cash or may reinvest such dividends into the Moody’s Stock Fund. Moody’s paid approximately $1 million during each of the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022, and 2021, respectively, for the Company’s common shares held by the Moody’s Stock Fund. The Company records the dividends as a reduction of retained earnings in the Consolidated Statements of Shareholders’ Equity. The Moody’s Stock Fund held approximately 315,400 and 329,300 shares of Moody’s common stock at December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively.
Non-U.S. Plans
Certain of the Company’s non-U.S. operations provide pension benefits to their employees. The non-U.S. defined benefit pension plans are immaterial. For defined contribution plans, company contributions are primarily determined as a percentage of employees’ eligible compensation. Expenses related to these defined contribution plans for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022, and 2021 were $42 million, $37 million, and $32 million, respectively.
v3.24.0.1
STOCK-BASED COMPENSATION PLANS
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Share-Based Payment Arrangement [Abstract]  
STOCK-BASED COMPENSATION PLANS STOCK-BASED COMPENSATION PLANS
Under the 1998 Plan, 33.0 million shares of the Company’s common stock have been reserved for issuance. In April 2023, stockholders approved an amendment to the 2001 Plan increasing the number of shares of Common Stock authorized for issuance by 4.0 million. This results in the 2001 Plan, which is shareholder approved, now permitting for the grant of up to 54.6 million shares, of which not more than 10.7 million shares are available for grants of awards other than stock options. The stock plans also provide for the granting of restricted stock. The stock plans provide that options are exercisable not later than ten years from the grant date. The vesting period for awards under the stock plans is generally determined by the Board at the date of the grant and has been four years except for employees who are at or near retirement eligibility, as defined, for which vesting is between one and four years. Additionally, the vesting period is three years for certain performance-based restricted stock that contain a condition whereby the number of shares that ultimately vest are based on the achievement of certain non-market based performance metrics of the Company. Options may not be granted at less than the fair market value of the Company’s common stock at the date of grant.
The Company maintains the Directors’ Plan for its Board, which permits the granting of awards in the form of non-qualified stock options, restricted stock or performance shares. The vesting period is determined by the Board at the date of the grant and is generally one year for both options and restricted stock. Under the Directors’ Plan, 1.7 million shares of common stock were reserved for issuance. Any director of the Company who is not an employee of the Company or any of its subsidiaries as of the date that an award is granted is eligible to participate in the Directors’ Plan.
On September 15, 2021, the Company acquired RMS, which is discussed in more detail in Note 9. As part of the acquisition, the Company registered the RMS Plans as part of the purchase agreement to acquire RMS. Under the RMS Plans, 1.2 million shares of the Company’s common stock have been reserved for issuance. The RMS Plans provide that options are exercisable not later than ten years from the grant date. The vesting period is generally determined by the Board at the date of the grant and is four years for both options and restricted stock granted during 2021.
As a result of the acquisition, certain RMS employees' unvested equity awards (employee stock options and restricted stock) with an acquisition-date fair value of $33 million were converted into equity awards of the Company based on an exchange ratio as defined in the purchase agreement. The portion of the fair value of the replacement awards related to services provided prior to the acquisition was $5 million and was accounted for as consideration transferred (See Note 9). The remaining portion of the replacement awards of $28 million, which is associated with post-acquisition service requirements, will be recognized as compensation expense over the remaining vesting period.
Presented below is a summary of the stock-based compensation expense and associated tax benefit in the accompanying consolidated statements of operations:
Year Ended December 31,
202320222021
Stock-based compensation expense$193 $169 $175 
Tax benefit$45 $41 $42 
The fair value of each employee stock option award is estimated on the date of grant using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model that uses the assumptions noted below. The expected dividend yield is derived from the annual dividend rate on the date of grant. The expected stock volatility is based on an assessment of historical weekly stock prices of the Company as well as implied volatility from Moody’s traded options. The risk-free interest rate is based on U.S. government zero coupon bonds with maturities similar to the expected holding period. The expected holding period is determined by examining historical and projected post-vesting exercise behavior activity.
The following weighted average assumptions were used for options granted (excluding the aforementioned RMS replacement awards for the year ended December 31, 2021):
Year Ended December 31,
202320222021
Expected dividend yield1.04 %0.86 %0.89 %
Expected stock volatility29 %27 %28 %
Risk-free interest rate4.19 %1.91 %0.82 %
Expected holding period (in years)5.85.65.6
Due to the RMS replacement option awards being heavily in-the-money at the acquisition date, the Company utilized a binomial valuation approach in 2021 to determine the fair value of the options, which approximated the intrinsic value of the replaced awards at the acquisition date.
The following represents the fair value of the options at grant date (including the RMS replacement option awards for the year ended December 31, 2021):
Year Ended December 31,
202320222021
Weighted average grant date fair value per share$94.71 $84.00 $121.14 
A summary of option activity as of December 31, 2023 and changes during the year then ended is presented below:
OptionsSharesWeighted Average Exercise Price Per ShareWeighted Average Remaining Contractual TermAggregate Intrinsic Value
Outstanding, December 31, 2022
1.0 $181.35 
Granted0.1 $295.42 
Exercised(0.3)$116.05 
Outstanding, December 31, 2023
0.8 $212.29 5.0 years$147 
Vested and expected to vest, December 31, 2023
0.8 $212.11 5.0 years$147 
Exercisable, December 31, 2023
0.6 $176.07 3.8 years$123 
The aggregate intrinsic value in the table above represents the total pre-tax intrinsic value (the difference between Moody’s closing stock price on the last trading day of the year ended December 31, 2023 and the exercise prices, multiplied by the number of in-the-money options) that would have been received by the option holders had all option holders exercised their options as of December 31, 2023. This amount varies based on the fair value of Moody’s stock. As of December 31, 2023, there was $9 million of total unrecognized compensation expense related to options. The expense is expected to be recognized over a weighted average period of 1.9 years.
The following table summarizes information relating to stock option exercises:
Year Ended December 31,
202320222021
Proceeds from stock option exercises$32 $8 $24 
Aggregate intrinsic value$58 $9 $55 
Tax benefit realized upon exercise$14 $2 $13 
A summary of nonvested restricted stock activity for the year ended December 31, 2023 is presented below:
Nonvested Restricted StockSharesWeighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Per Share
Balance, December 31, 2022
1.3 $288.47 
Granted0.7 $296.05 
Vested(0.6)$269.38 
Forfeited(0.1)$290.39 
Balance, December 31, 2023
1.3 $300.39 
As of December 31, 2023, there was $219 million of total unrecognized compensation expense related to nonvested restricted stock. The expense is expected to be recognized over a weighted average period of 2.4 years.
The following table summarizes information relating to the vesting of restricted stock awards:
Year Ended December 31,
202320222021
Fair value of shares vested$164 $180 $194 
Tax benefit realized upon vesting$40 $42 $46 
A summary of performance-based restricted stock activity for the year ended December 31, 2023 is presented below:
Performance-based restricted stockSharesWeighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Per Share
Balance, December 31, 2022
0.3 $303.80 
Granted0.1 $286.14 
Vested(0.1)$273.81 
Balance, December 31, 2023
0.3 $308.12 

The following table summarizes information relating to the vesting of the Company’s performance-based restricted stock awards:
Year Ended December 31,
202320222021
Fair value of shares vested$24 $50 $28 
Tax benefit realized upon vesting$3 $7 $7 
As of December 31, 2023, there was $24 million of total unrecognized compensation expense related to this plan. The expense is expected to be recognized over a weighted average period of 2.0 years.
The Company has a policy of issuing treasury stock to satisfy shares issued under stock-based compensation plans.
In addition, the Company also sponsors the ESPP. Under the ESPP, 6 million shares of common stock were reserved for issuance. The ESPP permits eligible employees to purchase common stock of the Company on a monthly basis at a discount to the average of the high and the low trading prices on the New York Stock Exchange on the last trading day of each month. This discount was 5% in 2023, 2022, and 2021 resulting in the ESPP qualifying for non-compensatory status under ASC Topic 718. Accordingly, no compensation expense was recognized for the ESPP in 2023, 2022, and 2021. The employee purchases are funded through after-tax payroll deductions, which plan participants can elect from one percent to ten percent of compensation, subject to the annual federal limit.
v3.24.0.1
INCOME TAXES
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]  
INCOME TAXES INCOME TAXES
Components of the Company’s income tax provision are as follows:
Year Ended December 31,
202320222021
Current:
Federal$76 $106 $404 
State and Local67 17 106 
Non-U.S.222 215 249 
Total current365 338 759 
Deferred:
Federal(14)57 (172)
State and Local(4)10 (45)
Non-U.S.(20)(19)(1)
Total deferred(38)48 (218)
Total provision for income taxes$327 $386 $541 
A reconciliation of the U.S. federal statutory tax rate to the Company’s ETR on income before provision for income taxes is as follows:
Year Ended December 31,
202320222021
U.S. statutory tax rate21.0 %21.0 %21.0 %
State and local taxes, net of federal tax benefit2.5 %0.8 %1.5 %
Foreign operations
0.4 %(0.2)%(1.5)%
Release of UTP reserves
(5.7)%— %— %
Other(1.3)%0.3 %(1.4)%
ETR
16.9 %21.9 %19.6 %
Income tax paid$344 $488 $932 
The source of income before provision for income taxes is as follows:
Year Ended December 31,
202320222021
U.S.$892 $804 $1,563 
Non-U.S.1,043 956 1,192 
Income before provision for income taxes$1,935 $1,760 $2,755 
The components of deferred tax assets and liabilities are as follows:
December 31,
20232022
Deferred tax assets:
Account receivable allowances$9 $9 
Accumulated depreciation and amortization19 15 
Stock-based compensation60 57 
Accrued compensation and benefits53 51 
Capitalized costs25 27 
Operating lease liabilities103 115 
Deferred revenue200 206 
Net operating loss38 36 
Restructuring7 11 
Uncertain tax positions29 68 
Self-insured related reserves6 12 
Other13 14 
Total deferred tax assets562 621 
Deferred tax liabilities:
Accumulated depreciation and amortization of intangible assets and capitalized software(551)(593)
ROU Assets(67)(82)
Capital gains(20)(29)
Self-insured related income(6)(12)
Revenue Accounting Standard - ASC Topic 606(4)(5)
Deferred tax on unremitted foreign earnings(14)(13)
Gain on net investment hedges - OCI(5)(48)
Other(15)(9)
Total deferred tax liabilities(682)(791)
Net deferred tax liabilities(120)(170)
Valuation allowance(24)(21)
Total net deferred tax liabilities$(144)$(191)
On December 22, 2017, the Tax Act was signed into law, which resulted in significant changes to U.S. corporate tax laws. The Tax Act includes a mandatory one-time deemed repatriation tax (“transition tax”) on previously untaxed accumulated earnings of foreign subsidiaries and beginning in 2018 reduces the statutory federal corporate income tax rate from 35% to 21%. Accordingly, the Company determined the transition tax to be $236 million, with the remaining balance due of $15 million as of December 31, 2023.
As a result of the Tax Act, all previously net undistributed foreign earnings have now been subject to U.S. tax. The Company regularly evaluates which entities it will indefinitely reinvest earnings. The Company has provided deferred taxes for those entities whose earnings are not considered indefinitely reinvested.
The Company’s annual tax expense for the year ended December 31, 2023 includes benefits from the favorable resolution of certain U.S. and non-U.S. UTPs of $120 million, excess tax benefits from stock compensation of $15 million, and other net decreases to tax positions of $13 million.
The Company had valuation allowances of $24 million and $21 million at December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively, related to foreign net operating losses for which realization is uncertain.
As of December 31, 2023, the Company had $196 million of UTPs of which $93 million represents the amount that, if recognized, would impact the ETR in future periods. The decrease in 2021 through 2023 resulted primarily from the favorable resolution of uncertain tax positions in various U.S. and non U.S. jurisdictions.
A reconciliation of the beginning and ending amount of UTPs is as follows:
Year Ended December 31,
202320222021
Balance as of January 1$322 $388 $483 
Additions for tax positions related to the current year21 12 102 
Additions for tax positions of prior years3 12 18 
Reductions for tax positions of prior years(17)(27)— 
Settlements with taxing authorities(108)(30)(134)
Lapse of statute of limitations(25)(33)(81)
Balance as of December 31$196 $322 $388 
The Company classifies interest related to UTPs in interest expense in its consolidated statements of operations. Penalties, if incurred, are recognized in other non-operating (expense) income, net. Refer to Note 18 for disclosure of interest (expense) income relating to UTPs and other tax-related liabilities. As of December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021 the amount of accrued interest recorded in the Company’s consolidated balance sheets related to UTPs was $36 million, $47 million and $59 million, respectively.
Moody’s Corporation and subsidiaries are subject to U.S. federal income tax as well as income tax in various state, local and foreign jurisdictions. The Company’s U.S. federal income tax returns for 2019 through 2020 are currently under examination and 2021 through 2022 remain open to examination. The Company’s New York City tax returns for 2015 through 2020 are currently under examination and years 2021 and 2022 are open for examination. The Company’s U.K. tax returns from 2017 to 2022 remain open to examination.
Given the number of years and nature of matters that remain subject to examination in various tax jurisdictions both in the U.S. and internationally, the Company is unable to estimate a range of possible changes to its UTPs for 2024. It is also possible that new issues might be raised by tax authorities which might necessitate increases to the balance of UTPs. As the Company is unable to predict the timing of conclusion of these audits, the Company is unable to estimate the amount of changes to the balance of UTPs at this time. However, the Company believes that it has adequately provided for its financial exposure relating to all open tax years, by tax jurisdiction, in accordance with ASC Topic 740.
In August 2022, the U.S. Congress passed the Inflation Reduction Act, which included a corporate minimum tax on book earnings of 15%, an excise tax on corporate share repurchases of 1%, and certain climate change and energy tax credit incentives. The adoption of a corporate minimum tax of 15% did not have a significant impact on Moody’s ETR. The excise tax of 1% on corporate share buybacks is recorded to shareholders' equity and does not have an impact on the Company’s ETR.
During 2023, multiple foreign jurisdictions in which the Company operates have enacted legislation to adopt a minimum tax rate described in the Global Anti-Base Erosion tax model rules (referred to as GloBE or Pillar Two) issued by the OECD. A minimum ETR of 15% would apply to multinational companies with consolidated revenue above €750 million, with an effective date beginning in 2024. Under the GloBE rules, a company would be required to determine a combined ETR for all entities located in a jurisdiction. If the jurisdictional tax rate is less than 15%, an additional tax generally will be due to bring the jurisdictional effective tax rate up to 15%. Through December 31, 2023, the Company continues to assess the impact of the Pillar Two minimum tax requirements for 2024. The analysis of the impact of the new requirements is currently being finalized, although it is not expected to have a material impact upon our results of operations or financial position.
v3.24.0.1
INDEBTEDNESS
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]  
INDEBTEDNESS INDEBTEDNESS
The Company’s debt is recorded at its carrying amount, which represents the issuance amount plus or minus any issuance premium or discount, except for certain debt as depicted in the table below, which is recorded at the carrying amount adjusted for the fair value of an interest rate swap used to hedge the fair value of the note.
The following table summarizes total indebtedness:
December 31, 2023
Principal Amount
Fair Value of Interest Rate Swaps(1)
Unamortized (Discount) PremiumUnamortized Debt Issuance CostsCarrying Value
Notes Payable:
5.25% 2014 Senior Notes, due 2044
$600 $(34)$3 $(4)$565 
1.75% 2015 Senior Notes, due 2027
552 — — (1)551 
3.25% 2017 Senior Notes, due 2028
500 (26)(2)(2)470 
4.25% 2018 Senior Notes, due 2029
400 (34)(2)(2)362 
4.875% 2018 Senior Notes, due 2048
400 (36)(6)(3)355 
0.950% 2019 Senior Notes, due 2030
829 — (2)(4)823 
3.75% 2020 Senior Notes, due 2025
700 (16)(1)(1)682 
3.25% 2020 Senior Notes, due 2050
300 — (4)(3)293 
2.55% 2020 Senior Notes, due 2060
300 — (2)(3)295 
2.00% 2021 Senior Notes, due 2031
600 — (6)(4)590 
2.75% 2021 Senior Notes, due 2041
600 — (12)(5)583 
3.10% 2021 Senior Notes, due 2061
500 — (7)(5)488 
3.75% 2022 Senior Notes, due 2052
500 (29)(8)(5)458 
4.25% 2022 Senior Notes, due 2032
500 (8)(2)(4)486 
Total long-term debt$7,281 $(183)$(51)$(46)$7,001 
December 31, 2022
Principal Amount
Fair Value of Interest Rate Swaps (1)
Unamortized (Discount) PremiumUnamortized Debt Issuance CostsCarrying Value
Notes Payable:
4.875% 2013 Senior Notes, due 2024
$500 $— $(1)$(1)$498 
5.25% 2014 Senior Notes, due 2044
600 (42)3 (4)557 
1.75% 2015 Senior Notes due 2027
534 — — (2)532 
3.25% 2017 Senior Notes, due 2028
500 (37)(3)(2)458 
4.25% 2018 Senior Notes, due 2029
400 (42)(2)(2)354 
4.875% 2018 Senior Notes, due 2048
400 (44)(6)(4)346 
0.950% 2019 Senior Notes, due 2030
800 — (2)(4)794 
3.75% 2020 Senior Notes, due 2025
700 (27)(1)(3)669 
3.25% 2020 Senior Notes, due 2050
300 — (4)(3)293 
2.55% 2020 Senior Notes, due 2060
300 — (2)(3)295 
2.00% 2021 Senior Notes, due 2031
600 — (7)(4)589 
2.75% 2021 Senior Notes, due 2041
600 — (13)(5)582 
3.10% 2021 Senior Notes, due 2061
500 — (7)(5)488 
3.75% 2022 Senior Note, due 2052
500 (35)(8)(5)452 
4.25% 2022 Senior Note, due 2032
500 (12)(2)(4)482 
Total long-term debt$7,734 $(239)$(55)$(51)$7,389 
(1)The fair value of interest rate swaps in the tables above represents the cumulative amount of fair value hedging adjustments included in the carrying amount of the hedged debt.
Credit Facility
The following summarizes information relating to the Company's revolving credit facility:
December 31, 2023December 31, 2022
Issue DateCapacityMaturityDrawnUndrawnDrawnUndrawn
2021 Credit FacilityDecember 17, 2021$1,250 December 17, 2026$— $1,250 $— $1,250 
Interest on borrowings under the 2021 Credit Facility is payable at rates that are based on an adjusted term SOFR Rate plus a premium that can range from 80.5 basis points to 122.5 basis points, depending on the Company’s index debt ratings, as set forth in the 2021 Facility Agreement. The Company also has the option to choose other rates, such as those based on adjusted Daily Simple SOFR or an alternate base rate as set forth in the 2021 Facility Agreement. The Company also pays quarterly facility fees, regardless of borrowing activity under the Facility. The quarterly fees for the 2021 Facility can range from 7 basis points of the 2021 Credit Facility amount to 15 basis points, depending on the Company’s index debt ratings. The facility fees for the 2021 Credit Facility are subject to sustainability-based pricing adjustments based on the Company’s annual performance with respect to certain spending with vendors who have committed to and publicly announced the setting of science-based targets to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The 2021 Facility contains a financial covenant that requires the Company to maintain a total debt to EBITDA Ratio of (i) not more than 4 to 1 at the end of any fiscal quarter or (ii) not more than 4.5 to 1 as of the end of the first three consecutive quarters immediately following any acquisition with consideration in excess of $500 million, subject to certain conditions as set forth in the 2021 Facility.
Commercial Paper
On August 3, 2016, the Company entered into a private placement commercial paper program under which the Company may issue CP notes up to a maximum amount of $1.0 billion. Borrowings under the CP Program are backstopped by the 2021 Facility. Amounts under the CP Program may be re-borrowed. The maturity of the CP Notes will vary, but may not exceed 397 days from the date of issue. The CP Notes are sold at a discount from par, or alternatively, sold at par and bear interest at rates that will vary based upon market conditions. The rates of interest will depend on whether the CP Notes will be a fixed or floating rate. The interest on a floating rate may be based on the following: (a) certificate of deposit rate; (b) commercial paper rate; (c) the federal funds rate; (d) the SOFR; (e) prime rate; (f) Treasury rate; or (g) such other base rate as may be specified in a supplement to the private placement agreement. The CP Program contains certain events of default including, among other things: non-payment of principal, interest or fees; entrance into any form of moratorium; and bankruptcy and insolvency events, subject in certain instances to cure periods. As of December 31, 2023, the Company has no CP borrowings outstanding.
Notes Payable
The Company may prepay certain of its senior notes, in whole or in part, but may incur a Make Whole amount penalty.
In 2023, the Company fully repaid $500 million of the 2013 Senior Notes due 2024.
At December 31, 2023, the Company was in compliance with all covenants contained within all of the debt agreements. All of the debt agreements contain cross default provisions which state that default under one of the aforementioned debt instruments could in turn permit lenders under other debt instruments to declare borrowings outstanding under those instruments to be immediately due and payable. As of December 31, 2023, there were no such cross defaults.
The repayment schedule for the Company’s borrowings is as follows:
Year Ending December 31,Total
2024$— 
2025700 
2026— 
2027552 
2028500 
Thereafter5,529 
Total$7,281 
Interest expense, net
The following table summarizes the components of interest as presented in the consolidated statements of operations and the cash paid for interest:
Year Ended December 31,
202320222021
Expense on borrowings(1)
$(296)$(216)$(185)
Income (expense) on UTPs and other tax related liabilities(2)
8 (13)21 
Net periodic pension costs - interest component (26)(17)(16)
Income63 15 9 
Interest expense, net$(251)$(231)$(171)
Interest paid(3)
$281 $198 $162 
(1) Expense on borrowings includes interest on long-term debt, as well as realized gains/losses related to interest rate swaps and cross currency swaps, which are more fully discussed in Note 7.
(2) The amount for the year ended December 31, 2023 reflects a $22 million reduction of tax-related interest expense primarily related to the resolutions of outstanding tax matters. The amount for the year ended December 31, 2021 includes a $45 million benefit relating to the reversal of tax-related interest accruals pursuant to the resolution of tax matters.
(3) Interest paid includes net settlements on interest rate swaps more fully discussed in Note 7.
The fair value and carrying value of the Company’s debt as of December 31, 2023 and 2022 are as follows:
December 31, 2023December 31, 2022
Carrying AmountEstimated Fair ValueCarrying AmountEstimated Fair Value
Long-term debt$7,001 $6,402 $7,389 $6,564 
The fair value of the Company’s debt is estimated based on quoted prices in active markets as of the reporting date, which are considered Level 1 inputs within the fair value hierarchy.
v3.24.0.1
CAPITAL STOCK
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Stockholders' Equity Note [Abstract]  
CAPITAL STOCK CAPITAL STOCK
Authorized Capital Stock
The total number of shares of all classes of stock that the Company has authority to issue under its Restated Certificate of Incorporation is 1.02 billion shares with a par value of $0.01, of which 1.0 billion are shares of common stock, 10.0 million are shares of preferred stock and 10.0 million are shares of series common stock. The preferred stock and series common stock can be issued with varying terms, as determined by the Board.
Share Repurchase Program
The Company first implemented a systematic share repurchase program in the third quarter of 2005 through an SEC Rule 10b5-1 program and has maintained its program since. Moody’s may also purchase opportunistically when conditions warrant. As a result, Moody’s share repurchase activity will continue to vary from quarter to quarter. The table below summarizes the Company’s remaining authority under its share repurchase program as of December 31, 2023:
Date AuthorizedAmount AuthorizedRemaining Authority
February 7, 2022$750 $359 
During 2023, Moody’s repurchased 1.5 million shares of its common stock under its share repurchase program and issued a net 0.8 million shares under employee stock-based compensation plans. The net amount includes shares withheld for employee payroll taxes.
On February 5, 2024, the Board authorized $1 billion of additional share repurchase authority, which will commence after the utilization of the current remaining authority.
Dividends
The Company’s cash dividends were:
Dividends Per Share
Year ended December 31,
202320222021
DeclaredPaidDeclaredPaidDeclaredPaid
First quarter$0.77 $0.77 $0.70 $0.70 $0.62 $0.62 
Second quarter0.77 0.77 0.70 0.70 0.62 0.62 
Third quarter0.77 0.77 0.70 0.70 0.62 0.62 
Fourth quarter0.77 0.77 0.70 0.70 0.62 0.62 
Total$3.08 $3.08 $2.80 $2.80 $2.48 $2.48 
On February 5, 2024, the Board approved the declaration of a quarterly dividend of $0.85 per share of Moody’s common stock, payable on March 15, 2024 to shareholders of record at the close of business on February 23, 2024. The continued payment of dividends at the rate noted above, or at all, is subject to the discretion of the Board.
v3.24.0.1
LEASES
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Leases [Abstract]  
LEASES LEASES
The Company has operating leases, substantially all of which relate to the lease of office space. The Company's leases which are classified as finance leases are not material to the consolidated financial statements. Certain of the Company's leases include options to renew, with renewal terms that can extend the lease from one to 20 years at the Company's discretion.
The following table presents the components of the Company’s lease cost:
Year Ended December 31,
202320222021
Operating lease cost$93 $102 $98 
Sublease income(7)(7)(6)
Variable lease cost22 20 19 
Total lease cost$108 $115 $111 
During 2023 and 2022, the Company recorded charges of $32 million and $23 million, respectively, related to the exit of certain real estate leases that resulted in ROU Asset impairment. The charges in both years were recorded within restructuring expense in the consolidated statements of operations. Refer to Note 11 for further details.
The following tables present other information related to the Company’s operating leases:
Year Ended December 31,
202320222021
Cash paid for amounts included in the measurement of operating lease liabilities$119 $118 $113 
ROU Assets obtained in exchange for new operating lease liabilities
$40 $35 $137 
Year Ended December 31,
202320222021
Weighted-average remaining lease term (in years)
4.44.95.6
Weighted-average discount rate applied to operating leases
3.2 %3.1 %3.1 %
The following table presents a maturity analysis of the future minimum lease payments included within the Company’s operating lease liabilities at December 31, 2023:
Year Ending December 31,Operating Leases
2024$118 
2025108 
202689 
202771 
202820 
Thereafter36 
Total lease payments (undiscounted)442 
Less: Interest28 
Present value of lease liabilities:$414 
Lease liabilities - current$108 
Lease liabilities - noncurrent$306 
v3.24.0.1
CONTINGENCIES
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]  
CONTINGENCIES CONTINGENCIES
Given the nature of the Company's activities, Moody’s and its subsidiaries are subject to legal and tax proceedings, governmental, regulatory and legislative investigations, subpoenas and other inquiries, and claims and litigation by governmental and private parties that are based on ratings assigned by MIS or that are otherwise incidental to the Company’s business. Moody’s and MIS also are subject to periodic reviews, inspections, examinations and investigations by regulators in the U.S. and other jurisdictions, any of which may result in claims, legal proceedings, assessments, fines, penalties or restrictions on business activities. MIS is responding to SEC requests for documents and information in connection with an investigation of MIS’s compliance with record preservation requirements relating to certain business communications sent over electronic messaging channels that have not been approved by MIS. The SEC is conducting similar investigations of the record preservation practices of other NRSROs and other registrants subject to record preservation requirements. Moody’s also is subject to ongoing tax audits as addressed in Note 17 to the consolidated financial statements.
Management periodically assesses the Company’s liabilities and contingencies in connection with these matters based upon the latest information available. For claims, litigation and proceedings and governmental investigations and inquiries not related to income taxes, the Company records liabilities in the consolidated financial statements when it is both probable that a liability has been incurred and the amount of loss can be reasonably estimated and periodically adjusts these as appropriate. When the reasonable estimate of the loss is within a range of amounts, the minimum amount of the range is accrued unless some higher amount within the range is a better estimate than another amount within the range. In instances when a loss is reasonably possible but uncertainties exist related to the probable outcome and/or the amount or range of loss, management does not record a liability but discloses the contingency if material. As additional information becomes available, the Company adjusts its assessments and estimates of such matters accordingly. Moody’s also discloses material pending legal proceedings pursuant to SEC rules and other pending matters as it may determine to be appropriate.
In view of the inherent difficulty of assessing the potential outcome of legal proceedings, governmental, regulatory and legislative investigations and inquiries, claims and litigation and similar matters and contingencies, particularly when the claimants seek large or indeterminate damages or assert novel legal theories or the matters involve a large number of parties, the Company often cannot predict what the eventual outcome of the pending matters will be or the timing of any resolution of such matters. The Company also may be unable to predict the impact (if any) that any such matters may have on how its business is conducted, on its competitive position or on its financial position, results of operations or cash flows. As the process to resolve any pending matters progresses, management will continue to review the latest information available and assess its ability to predict the outcome of such matters and the effects, if any, on its operations and financial condition and to accrue for and disclose such matters as and when required. However, because such matters are inherently unpredictable and unfavorable developments or resolutions can occur, the ultimate outcome of such matters, including the amount of any loss, may differ from those estimates.
v3.24.0.1
SEGMENT INFORMATION
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Segment Reporting [Abstract]  
SEGMENT INFORMATION SEGMENT INFORMATION
The Company is organized into two operating segments: MA and MIS and accordingly, the Company reports in two reportable segments: MA and MIS.
The MA segment develops a wide range of products and services that support the risk management activities of institutional participants in global financial markets. The MA segment consists of three LOBs - DS, R&I, and D&I.
The MIS segment consists of five LOBs. The CFG, FIG, PPIF and SFG LOBs generate revenue principally from fees for the assignment and ongoing monitoring of credit ratings on debt obligations and the entities that issue such obligations in markets worldwide. The MIS Other LOB primarily consists of financial instruments pricing services in the Asia-Pacific region, ICRA non-ratings revenue and revenue from providing professional services.
Revenue for MA and expenses for MIS include an intersegment fee charged to MIS from MA for certain MA products and services utilized in MIS’s ratings process. Additionally, revenue for MIS and expenses for MA include intersegment fees charged to MA for the rights to use and distribute content, data and products developed by MIS. These intersegment fees are generally based on the market value of the products and services being transferred between the segments.
Overhead expenses include costs such as rent and occupancy, information technology and support staff such as finance, human resources and legal. Such costs and corporate expenses that exclusively benefit one segment are fully charged to that segment.
For overhead costs and corporate expenses that benefit both segments, costs are allocated to each segment based on the segment’s share of full-year 2018 actual revenue which comprises a “Baseline Pool” established in 2019, which will remain fixed over time. In subsequent periods, incremental overhead costs (or reductions thereof) will be allocated to each segment based on the prevailing shares of total revenue represented by each segment.
“Eliminations” in the following table represent intersegment revenue/expense. Moody’s does not report the Company’s assets by reportable segment, as this metric is not used by the chief operating decision maker to allocate resources to the segments. Consequently, it is not practical to show assets by reportable segment.
Financial Information by Segment
The table below shows revenue and Adjusted Operating Income by reportable segment. Adjusted Operating Income is a financial metric utilized by the Company’s chief operating decision maker to assess the profitability of each reportable segment. Refer to Note 3 for further details on the components of the Company’s revenue.
Year Ended December 31,
20232022
MA
MIS
EliminationsConsolidated
MA
MIS
EliminationsConsolidated
Total external revenue$3,056 $2,860 $— $5,916 $2,769 $2,699 $— $5,468 
Intersegment revenue13 186 (199)— 8 174 (182)— 
Revenue3,069 3,046 (199)5,916 2,777 2,873 (182)5,468 
Operating, SG&A2,132 1,386 (199)3,319 1,937 1,385 (182)3,140 
Adjusted Operating Income937 1,660 — 2,597 840 1,488 — 2,328 
Add:
Depreciation and amortization298 75 — 373 250 81 — 331 
Restructuring59 28 — 87 49 65 — 114 
Operating Income$2,137 $1,883 
Year Ended December 31, 2021
MA
MIS
EliminationsConsolidated
Total external revenue$2,406 $3,812 $— $6,218 
Intersegment revenue7 165 (172)— 
Revenue2,413 3,977 (172)6,218 
Operating, SG&A1,786 1,503 (172)3,117 
Adjusted Operating Income627 2,474 — 3,101 
Add:
Depreciation and amortization185 72 — 257 
Restructuring1 (1)— — 
Operating income$2,844 
The table below shows cumulative restructuring expense incurred through December 31, 2023 by reportable segment.
MA
MIS
Total
2022 - 2023 Geolocation Restructuring Program$108 $92 $200 
The 2022 - 2023 Geolocation Restructuring program is more fully discussed in Note 11.
CONSOLIDATED REVENUE AND LONG-LIVED ASSETS INFORMATION BY GEOGRAPHIC AREA
Year Ended December 31,
202320222021
Revenue:
U.S.$3,098 $2,873 $3,383 
Non-U.S.:
EMEA1,848 1,682 1,885 
Asia-Pacific577 556 603 
Americas393 357 347 
Total Non-U.S.2,818 2,595 2,835 
Total$5,916 $5,468 $6,218 
Long-lived assets at December 31:
U.S.$4,323 $4,408 $4,449 
Non-U.S.4,562 4,489 4,802 
Total$8,885 $8,897 $9,251 
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VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
SEC Schedule, 12-09, Valuation and Qualifying Accounts [Abstract]  
VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS
Accounts receivable allowances represent estimates for uncollectible accounts. The valuation allowance on deferred tax assets relates to foreign net operating tax losses for which realization is uncertain. Below is a summary of activity:
Year Ended December 31,Balance at Beginning of the YearCharged to costs and expenses
Deductions (1)
Balance at End of the Year
2023
Allowances for credit losses$(40)$(22)$27 $(35)
Deferred tax assets—valuation allowance$(21)$(2)$(1)$(24)
2022
Allowances for credit losses$(32)$(25)$17 $(40)
Deferred tax assets—valuation allowance$(18)$(4)$1 $(21)
2021
Allowances for credit losses$(34)$(13)$15 $(32)
Deferred tax assets—valuation allowance$(15)$(4)$1 $(18)
                
(1)Reflects write-off of uncollectible accounts receivable or expiration of foreign net operating tax losses.
v3.24.0.1
OTHER NON-OPERATING (EXPENSE) INCOME, NET
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Other Income and Expenses [Abstract]  
OTHER NON-OPERATING (EXPENSE) INCOME, NET OTHER NON-OPERATING INCOME, NET
The following table summarizes the components of other non-operating income, net as presented in the consolidated statements of operations:
Year Ended December 31,
202320222021
FX loss(1)
$(30)$(10)$(1)
Purchase price hedge loss(2)
— — (13)
Net periodic pension income - non-service and non-interest cost components
35 24 9 
Income from investments in non-consolidated affiliates(3)
19 17 60 
Gain (loss) on investments
14 (14)13 
Other
11 21 14 
Total$49 $38 $82 
(1)     The amount for the year ended December 31, 2023 includes a $23 million loss recorded pursuant to an immaterial out-of-period adjustment relating to the 2022 fiscal year. The amount for the year ended December 31, 2022 includes FX translation losses of $20 million reclassified to earnings resulting from the Company no longer conducting commercial operations in Russia.
(2)     The amount for the year ended December 31, 2021 reflects a loss on a forward contract to hedge a portion of the RMS British pound-denominated purchase price.
(3)     The amount for the year ended December 31, 2021 includes a $36 million non-cash gain relating to the exchange of Moody’s minority investment in VisibleRisk (accounted for under the equity method) for shares of BitSight, a cybersecurity ratings company.
v3.24.0.1
SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Policies)
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Accounting Policies [Abstract]  
Adoption of New Accounting Standards in 2023
Adoption of New Accounting Standards in 2023
In January 2021, the FASB issued ASU 2021-01, “Reference Rate Reform - Scope,” which clarified the scope and application of the original guidance, ASU No. 2020-04, "Facilitation of the Effects of Reference Rate Reform on Financial Reporting" ("ASU No. 2020-04"), issued in March 2020 (codified into ASC Topic 848 "Reference Rate Reform"). ASU No. 2020-04 provides temporary optional expedients and exceptions to the GAAP guidance on contract modifications and hedge accounting to ease the financial reporting burdens related to the expected market transition from LIBOR and other interbank offered rates to alternative reference rates. In December 2022, the FASB issued ASU 2022-06, "Reference Rate Reform—Deferral of the Sunset Date of Topic 848," which deferred the sunset date of Topic 848 to December 31, 2024. These ASU's were effective upon issuance and the amendments may be applied prospectively through December 31, 2024 as the transition from LIBOR is completed.
During the first quarter of 2023, the Company modified the contractual terms of certain of its interest rate swaps designated as fair value hedges and cross-currency swaps designated as net investment hedges. These modifications replaced the previous LIBOR/EURIBOR-based reference rates included in the swap agreements to SOFR/ESTR-based rates. Pursuant to the modification of the contractual terms of these instruments, the Company utilized the optional expedients set forth in ASC Topic 848 relating to derivative instruments used in hedging relationships. The aggregate notional amounts of these swaps is disclosed in Note 7.
Reclassification of Previously Reported Revenue by LOB
In the second quarter of 2023, the Company expanded its disaggregation of revenue disclosures for MA's Decision Solutions LOB to enhance insight and transparency into this business. In conjunction with this new presentation, the Company reclassified certain immaterial revenue relating to structured finance solutions from the Decision Solutions LOB to the Research & Insights LOB.
Prior year revenue by LOB disclosures have been reclassified to conform to this new presentation, which is disclosed in Note 3.
Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements
In November 2023, the FASB issued ASU 2023-07, "Segment Reporting (Topic 280): Improvements to Reportable Segment Disclosures" ("ASU No. 2023-07"), which expands segment disclosure requirements for public entities. ASU No. 2023-07 will require entities to disclose significant segment expenses by reportable segment if they are regularly provided to the CODM and included in each reported measure of segment profit or loss. In addition, this ASU permits entities to disclose more than one measure of segment profit or loss used by the CODM. Additionally, disclosure of the CODM’s title and position will be required on an annual basis, as well as an explanation of how the CODM uses the reported measure(s). Furthermore, all existing annual disclosures about segment profit or loss and assets must be provided on an interim basis in addition to disclosure of significant segment expenses and other segment items. This ASU is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2023, and interim periods within fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2024, and requires retrospective application to all prior periods presented in the financial statements. The Company is currently evaluating the impact of adopting this ASU on its consolidated financial statements and disclosures.
In December 2023, the FASB issued ASU 2023-09, "Income Taxes (Topic 740): Improvements to Income Tax Disclosures" ("ASU No. 2023-09"), which is intended to enhance the transparency and decision usefulness of income tax disclosures. The amendments in ASU No. 2023-09 require entities to disclose additional income tax information, primarily related to greater disaggregation of the entity's ETR reconciliation and income taxes paid by jurisdiction disclosures. This ASU is effective for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2024, and should be applied on a prospective basis; however, retrospective application is permitted. The Company is currently evaluating the impact of adopting this ASU on its consolidated financial statements and disclosures.
Basis of Consolidation
Basis of Consolidation
The consolidated financial statements include those of Moody’s Corporation and its majority- and wholly-owned subsidiaries. The effects of all intercompany transactions have been eliminated. Investments in companies for which the Company has significant influence over operating and financial policies but not a controlling interest are accounted for on an equity basis whereby the Company records its proportional share of the investment’s net income or loss as part of other non-operating income (expense), net and any dividends received reduce the carrying amount of the investment. Equity investments without a readily determinable fair value for which the Company does not have significant influence are accounted for under the ASC Topic 321 measurement alternative; these investments are recorded at initial cost, less impairment, adjusted upward or downward for any observable price changes in similar investments. The Company applies the guidelines set forth in ASC Topic 810 assessing its interests in variable interest entities to decide whether to consolidate an entity. The Company has reviewed the potential variable interest entities and determined that there are no consolidation requirements under ASC Topic 810. The Company consolidates its ICRA subsidiaries on a three month lag.
Cash and Cash Equivalents
Cash and Cash Equivalents
Cash equivalents principally consist of investments in money market deposit accounts and money market funds as well as certificates of deposit with maturities of three months or less when purchased.
Short-term Investments
Short-term Investments
Short-term investments are securities with maturities greater than 90 days at the time of purchase that are available for operations in the next 12 months. The Company’s short-term investments primarily consist of certificates of deposit and their cost
approximates fair value due to the short-term nature of the instruments. Interest and dividends on these investments are recorded into income when earned.
Property and Equipment
Property and Equipment
Property and equipment are stated at cost and are depreciated using the straight-line method over their estimated useful lives. Expenditures for maintenance and repairs that do not extend the economic useful life of the related assets are charged to expense as incurred.
Computer Software Developed or Obtained for Internal Use
Computer Software Developed or Obtained for Internal Use
The Company capitalizes costs related to software developed or obtained for internal use. These assets, included in property and equipment in the consolidated balance sheets, relate to MA's SaaS-based solutions as well as the Company’s financial, website and other systems. Such costs generally consist of employee compensation, direct costs for third-party license fees and professional services provided by third parties, in each case incurred either during the application development stage or in connection with upgrades and enhancements that increase functionality. Such costs are depreciated over their estimated useful lives on a straight-line basis. Costs incurred during the preliminary project stage of development as well as maintenance costs are expensed as incurred.
The Company also capitalizes implementation costs incurred in cloud computing arrangements (e.g., hosted arrangements) and depreciates the costs over the non-cancellable term of the cloud computing arrangements plus any option renewal periods that are reasonably certain to be exercised or for which the exercise is controlled by the service provider. The Company classifies the amortization of capitalized implementation costs in the same line item in the consolidated statement of operations as the fees associated with the hosting service (i.e., operating and SG&A expense) and classifies the related payments in the consolidated statement of cash flows in the same manner as payments made for fees associated with the hosting service (i.e. cash flows from operating activities). In addition, the capitalization of implementation costs is reflected in the consolidated balance sheets consistent with the location of prepayment of fees for the hosting element (i.e., within other current assets or other assets).
Goodwill and Other Acquired Intangible Assets
Goodwill and Other Acquired Intangible Assets
Moody’s evaluates its goodwill for impairment at the reporting unit level, defined as an operating segment (i.e., MA and MIS), or one level below an operating segment (i.e., a component of an operating segment), annually as of July 31 or more frequently if impairment indicators arise in accordance with ASC Topic 350.
The Company evaluates the recoverability of goodwill using a two-step impairment test approach at the reporting unit level. In the first step, the Company assesses various qualitative factors to determine whether the fair value of a reporting unit may be less than its carrying amount. If a determination is made based on the qualitative factors that an impairment does not exist, the Company is not required to perform further testing. If the aforementioned qualitative assessment results in the Company concluding that it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit may be less than its carrying amount, the fair value of the reporting unit will be quantitatively determined and compared to its carrying value including goodwill. If the fair value of the reporting unit exceeds the carrying value of the net assets assigned to that unit, goodwill is not impaired and the Company is not required to perform further testing. If the fair value of the reporting unit is less than the carrying value, the Company will record a goodwill impairment charge for the amount by which the carrying value exceeds the reporting unit’s fair value.
The Company evaluates its reporting units on an annual basis, or more frequently if there are changes in the reporting structure of the Company due to acquisitions, realignments or if there are indicators of potential impairment. For the reporting units where the Company is consistently able to conclude that no impairment exists using only a qualitative approach, the Company’s accounting policy is to perform the second step of the aforementioned goodwill impairment assessment at least once every three years.
For purposes of assessing the recoverability of goodwill, the Company has four reporting units: two reporting units within MA consisting of businesses that offer: i) data and data-driven analytical solutions; and ii) risk-management software, workflow and CRE solutions and two within the Company’s ratings business (one for the ICRA business and one that encompasses all of Moody’s other ratings operations).
Impairment of long-lived assets and definite-lived intangible assets
Impairment of long-lived assets and definite-lived intangible assets
Long-lived assets (including ROU Assets) and amortizable intangible assets are reviewed for recoverability whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount may not be recoverable.
Under the first step of the recoverability assessment, the Company compares the estimated undiscounted future cash flows attributable to the asset or asset group to their carrying value. If the undiscounted future cash flows are greater than the carrying value, no further assessment is required. If the undiscounted future cash flows are less than the carrying value, Moody's proceeds with step two of the assessment. Under step two of this assessment, Moody's is required to determine the fair value of the asset or asset group (reduced by the estimated cost to sell the asset for assets or disposal groups classified as held-for-sale) and recognize an impairment loss if the carrying amount exceeds its fair value.
Stock-Based Compensation
Stock-Based Compensation
The Company records compensation expense over the requisite service period for all share-based payment award transactions granted to employees based on the fair value of the equity instrument at the time of grant. This includes shares issued under stock option and restricted stock plans.
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities
Based on the Company’s risk management policy, the Company may use derivative financial instruments to reduce exposure to changes in foreign exchange rates and interest rates. The Company does not enter into derivative financial instruments for speculative purposes. All derivative financial instruments are recorded on the consolidated balance sheets at their respective fair values on a gross basis. The changes in the value of derivatives that qualify as fair value hedges are recorded in the same income statement line item in earnings in which the corresponding adjustment to the carrying value of the hedged item is presented. The entire change in the fair value of derivatives that qualify as cash flow hedges is recorded to OCI and such amounts are reclassified from AOCI(L) to the same income statement line in earnings in the same period or periods during which the hedged transaction affects income. The Company assesses effectiveness for net investment hedges using the spot-method. The entire change in the fair value of derivatives that qualify as net investment hedges is initially recorded to OCI. Those changes in fair value attributable to components included in the assessment of hedge effectiveness in a net investment hedge are recorded in the currency translation adjustment component of OCI and remain in AOCI(L) until the period in which the hedged item affects earnings. Those changes in fair value attributable to components excluded from the assessment of hedge effectiveness in a net investment hedge are recorded to OCI and amortized to earnings using a systematic and rational method over the duration of the hedge. Any changes in the fair value of derivatives that the Company does not designate as hedging instruments under ASC Topic 815 are recorded in the consolidated statements of operations in the period in which they occur. Cash flows from derivatives are recognized in the consolidated statements of cash flows in a manner consistent with the recognition of the underlying hedged item.
Revenue Recognition and Costs to Obtain or Fulfill a Contract with a Customer
Revenue Recognition and Costs to Obtain or Fulfill a Contract with a Customer
Revenue recognition:
Revenue is recognized when control of promised goods or services is transferred to the customer, in an amount that reflects the consideration the Company expects to be entitled to in exchange for those goods or services.
When contracts with customers contain multiple performance obligations, the Company accounts for individual performance obligations separately if they are distinct. The transaction price is allocated to each distinct performance obligation on a relative SSP basis. The Company determines the SSP by using the price charged for a deliverable when sold separately or uses management’s best estimate of SSP for goods or services not sold separately using estimation techniques that maximize observable data points, including: internal factors relevant to its pricing practices such as costs and margin objectives; standalone sales prices of similar products; pricing policies; percentage of the fee charged for a primary product or service relative to a related product or service; and geography.
Sales, usage-based, value added and other taxes are excluded from revenues.
MA Revenue
In the MA segment, products and services offered by the Company include hosted research and data subscriptions, installed and hosted software subscriptions, perpetual installed software licenses and related maintenance, or PCS, and professional services. Subscription and PCS contracts are generally invoiced in advance of the contractual coverage period, which is principally one year, but can range from 3-5 years. Professional services are invoiced as those services are provided. Payment terms and conditions vary by contract type, but primarily include a requirement of payment within 30 to 60 days.
Revenue from research, data and other hosted subscriptions is recognized ratably over the related subscription period as MA's performance obligation to provide access to these products is progressively fulfilled over the stated term of the contract. A large portion of these services are invoiced in the months of November, December and January.
Revenue from the sale of a software license, when considered distinct from the related software implementation services, is generally recognized at the time the product master or first copy is delivered or transferred to the customer. PCS is generally recognized ratably over the contractual period commencing when the software license is fully delivered. Revenue from installed software subscriptions, which includes PCS, is bifurcated into a software license performance obligation and a PCS performance obligation, which follow the patterns of recognition described above, except for those installed subscriptions where the software license and PCS performance obligations were determined to be incapable of being distinct from each other in accordance with ASC 606-10-25-19 and ASC 606-10-25-20. In such instances, revenue is recognized over time.
For implementation services and other service projects for which fees are fixed, the Company determined progress towards completion is most accurately measured on a percentage-of-completion basis (input method) as this approach utilizes the most directly observable data points and is therefore used to recognize the related revenue. For implementation services where price varies based on time expended, a time-based measure of progress towards completion of the performance obligation is utilized.
Revenue from professional services rendered is generally recognized over time as the services are performed.
Products and services offered within the MA segment are sold either stand-alone or together in various combinations. In instances where an arrangement contains multiple performance obligations, the Company accounts for the individual performance obligations separately if they are considered distinct. Revenue is generally allocated to all performance obligations based upon the relative SSP at contract inception. For certain performance obligations, judgment is required to determine the SSP. Revenue is recognized for each performance obligation based upon the conditions for revenue recognition noted above.
In the MA segment, customers usually pay a fixed fee for the products and services based on signed contracts. However, accounting for variable consideration is applied mainly for: i) estimates for cancellation rights and price concessions and ii) T&M based services.
The Company estimates the variable consideration associated with cancellation rights and price concessions based on the expected amount to be provided to customers and reduces the amount of revenue to be recognized.
MIS Revenue
In the MIS segment, revenue arrangements with multiple elements are generally comprised of two distinct performance obligations, a rating and the related monitoring service. Revenue attributed to ratings of issued securities is generally recognized when the rating is delivered to the issuer. Revenue attributed to monitoring of issuers or issued securities is recognized ratably over the period in which the monitoring is performed, generally one year. In the case of certain structured finance products, primarily CMBS, issuers can elect to pay all of the annual monitoring fees upfront. These fees are deferred and recognized over the future monitoring periods based on the expected lives of the rated securities.
MIS arrangements generally have standard contractual terms for which the stated payments are due at conclusion of the ratings process for ratings and either upfront or in arrears for monitoring services; and are signed by customers either on a per issue basis or at the beginning of the relationship with the customer. In situations when customer fees for an arrangement may be variable, the Company estimates the variable consideration at inception using the expected value method based on analysis of similar contracts in the same line of business, which is constrained based on the Company’s assessment of the realization of the adjustment amount.
The Company allocates the transaction price within arrangements that include multiple performance obligations based upon the relative SSP of each service. The SSP for both rating and monitoring services is generally based upon observable selling prices where the rating or monitoring service is sold separately to similar customers.
Costs to Obtain or Fulfill a Contract with a Customer:
Costs to obtain a contract with a customer
Costs incurred to obtain customer contracts, such as sales commissions, are deferred and recorded within other current assets and other assets when such costs are determined to be incremental to obtaining a contract, would not have been incurred otherwise and the Company expects to recover those costs. These costs are amortized to expense on a systematic basis consistent with the transfer of the products or services to the customer. Depending on the line of business to which the contract relates, this may be based upon the average economic life of the products sold or average period for which services are provided, inclusive of anticipated contract renewals. Determining the estimated economic life of the products sold requires judgment with respect to anticipated future technological changes. Costs to obtain customer contracts are only incurred in the MA segment.
Cost to fulfill a contract with a customer
Costs incurred to fulfill customer contracts, are deferred and recorded within other current assets and other assets when such costs relate directly to a contract, generate or enhance resources of the Company that will be used in satisfying performance obligations in the future and the Company expects to recover those costs.
The Company capitalizes royalty costs within the MA segment related to third-party information data providers associated with hosted company information and business intelligence products. These costs are amortized to expense consistent with the recognition pattern of the related revenue over time.
In addition, the Company capitalizes work-in-process costs for in-progress MIS ratings, which is recognized consistent with the rendering of the related services to the customers, as ratings are issued.
Accounts Receivable Allowances
Accounts Receivable Allowances
In order to determine an estimate of expected credit losses, receivables are segmented based on similar risk characteristics including historical credit loss patterns to calculate reserve rates. The Company uses an aging method for developing its allowance for credit losses by which receivable balances are stratified based on aging category. A reserve rate is calculated for each aging category which is generally based on historical information, and is adjusted, when necessary, for current conditions (e.g., macroeconomic or industry related) and reasonable and supportable forecasts about the future. The Company also considers customer specific information (e.g., bankruptcy or financial difficulty) when estimating its expected credit losses, as well as the economic environment of the customers, both from an industry and geographic perspective, in evaluating the need for allowances. Expected credit losses are reflected as additions to the accounts receivable allowance. Actual uncollectible account write-offs are recorded against the allowance.
Leases
Leases
The Company has operating leases, which substantially all relate to the lease of office space. The Company’s leases which are classified as finance leases are not material to the consolidated financial statements.
The Company determines if an arrangement meets the definition of a lease at contract inception. The Company recognizes in its consolidated balance sheets a lease liability and an ROU Asset for all leases with a lease term greater than 12 months. In determining the length of the lease term, the Company utilizes judgment in assessing the likelihood of whether it is reasonably certain that it will exercise an option to extend or early-terminate a lease, if such options are provided in the lease agreement.
ROU Assets represent the Company’s right to use an underlying asset for the lease term and lease liabilities represent the Company’s obligation to make lease payments arising from the lease. ROU Assets and lease liabilities are recognized at the lease
commencement date based on the present value of lease payments over the lease term. As substantially all of the Company’s leases do not provide an implicit interest rate, the Company uses its estimated secured incremental borrowing rates at the lease commencement date in determining the present value of lease payments. These secured incremental borrowing rates are attributable to the currency in which the lease is denominated.
At commencement, the Company’s initial measurement of the ROU Asset is calculated as the present value of the remaining lease payments (i.e., lease liability), with additive adjustments reflecting: initial direct costs (e.g., broker commissions) and prepaid lease payments (if any); and reduced by any lease incentives provided by the lessor if: (i) received before lease commencement or (ii) receipt of the lease incentive is contingent upon future events for which the occurrence is both probable and within the Company’s control.
Lease expense for minimum operating lease payments is recognized on a straight-line basis over the lease term. This straight-line lease expense represents a single lease cost which is comprised of both an interest accretion component relating to the lease liability and amortization of the ROU Assets. The Company records this single lease cost in operating and SG&A expenses. However, in situations where an operating lease ROU Asset has been impaired, the subsequent amortization of the ROU Asset is then recorded on a straight-line basis over the remaining lease term and is combined with accretion expense on the lease liability to result in single operating lease cost (which subsequent to impairment will no longer follow a straight-line recognition pattern).
The Company has lease agreements which include lease and non-lease components. For the Company’s office space leases, the lease components (e.g., fixed rent payments) and non-lease components (e.g., fixed common-area maintenance costs) are combined and accounted for as a single lease component.
Variable lease payments (e.g., variable common-area-maintenance costs) are only included in the initial measurement of the lease liability to the extent those payments depend on an index or a rate. Variable lease payments not included in the lease liability are recognized in net income in the period in which the obligation for those payments is incurred.
Contingencies
Contingencies
Moody’s is involved in legal and tax proceedings, governmental, regulatory and legislative investigations and inquiries, claims and litigation that are incidental to the Company’s business, including claims based on ratings assigned by MIS. Moody’s is also subject to ongoing tax audits in the normal course of business. Management periodically assesses the Company’s liabilities and contingencies in connection with these matters based upon the latest information available. Moody’s discloses material pending legal proceedings pursuant to SEC rules and other pending matters as it may determine to be appropriate.
For claims, litigation and proceedings and governmental investigations and inquiries not related to income taxes, the Company records liabilities in the consolidated financial statements when it is both probable that a liability has been incurred and the amount of loss can be reasonably estimated and periodically adjusts these as appropriate. When the reasonable estimate of the loss is within a range of amounts, the minimum amount of the range is accrued unless some higher amount within the range is a better estimate than another amount within the range. In instances when a loss is reasonably possible but uncertainties exist related to the probable outcome and/or the amount or range of loss, management does not record a liability but discloses the contingency if material. As additional information becomes available, the Company adjusts its assessments and estimates of such matters accordingly. Moody’s also discloses material pending legal proceedings pursuant to SEC rules and other pending matters as it may determine to be appropriate.
In view of the inherent difficulty of assessing the potential outcome of legal proceedings, governmental, regulatory and legislative investigations and inquiries, claims and litigation and similar matters and contingencies, particularly when the claimants seek large or indeterminate damages or assert novel legal theories or the matters involve a large number of parties, the Company often cannot predict what the eventual outcome of the pending matters will be or the timing of any resolution of such matters. The Company also may be unable to predict the impact (if any) that any such matters may have on how its business is conducted, on its competitive position or on its financial position, results of operations or cash flows. As the process to resolve any pending matters progresses, management will continue to review the latest information available and assess its ability to predict the outcome of such matters and the effects, if any, on its operations and financial condition and to accrue for and disclose such matters as and when required. However, because such matters are inherently unpredictable and unfavorable developments or resolutions can occur, the ultimate outcome of such matters, including the amount of any loss, may differ from those estimates.
Operating Expenses
Operating Expenses
Operating expenses include costs associated with the development and production of the Company’s products and services and their delivery to customers. These expenses principally include employee compensation and benefits and travel costs that are incurred in connection with these activities. Operating expenses are charged to income as incurred.
Selling, General and Administrative Expenses
Selling, General and Administrative Expenses
SG&A expenses include such items as compensation and benefits for corporate officers and staff and compensation and other expenses related to sales. They also include items such as office rent, business insurance and professional fees. SG&A expenses are charged to income as incurred.
Foreign Currency Translation
Foreign Currency Translation
For all operations outside the U.S. where the Company has designated the local currency as the functional currency, assets and liabilities are translated into U.S. dollars using end of year exchange rates, and revenue and expenses are translated using
average exchange rates for the year. For these foreign operations, currency translation adjustments are recorded to other comprehensive income.
Comprehensive Income
Comprehensive Income
Comprehensive income represents the change in net assets of a business enterprise during a period due to transactions and other events and circumstances from non-owner sources including: foreign currency translation impacts; net actuarial gains and losses and net prior service costs related to pension and other retirement plans; and gains and losses on derivative instruments designated as net investment hedges or cash flow hedges. Comprehensive income items, including cumulative translation adjustments of entities that are less-than-wholly-owned subsidiaries, will be reclassified to noncontrolling interests and thereby, adjusting AOCI(L) proportionately in accordance with the percentage of ownership interest of the non-controlling shareholder. Additionally, the Company reclassifies the income tax effects from AOCI(L) at such time as the earnings or loss of the related activity are recognized in earnings.
Income Taxes
Income Taxes
The Company accounts for income taxes under the asset and liability method in accordance with ASC Topic 740. Therefore, income tax expense is based on reported income before income taxes and deferred income taxes reflect the effect of temporary differences between the amounts of assets and liabilities that are recognized for financial reporting purposes and the amounts that are recognized for income tax purposes.
The Company classifies interest related to unrecognized tax benefits as a component of interest expense in its consolidated statements of operations. Penalties are recognized in other non-operating expenses. For UTPs, the Company first determines whether it is more-likely-than-not (defined as a likelihood of more than fifty percent) that a tax position will be sustained based on its technical merits as of the reporting date, assuming that taxing authorities will examine the position and have full knowledge of all relevant information. A tax position that meets this more-likely-than-not threshold is then measured and recognized at the largest amount of benefit that is greater than fifty percent likely to be realized upon effective settlement with a taxing authority.
On December 22, 2017, the Tax Act was signed into law, resulting in all previously undistributed foreign earnings being subject to U.S. tax. The Company has provided deferred taxes for those entities whose earnings are not considered indefinitely reinvested.
Fair Value of Financial Instruments
Fair Value of Financial Instruments
The Company’s financial instruments include cash, cash equivalents, trade receivables and payables, and certain short-term investments consisting primarily of certificates of deposit and money market deposits, all of which are short-term in nature and, accordingly, approximate fair value.
The Company also invests in mutual funds, which are accounted for as equity securities with readily determinable fair values under ASC Topic 321. The Company measures these investments at fair value with both realized gains and losses and unrealized holding gains and losses for these investments included in net income.
Also, the Company uses derivative instruments to manage certain financial exposures that occur in the normal course of business. These derivative instruments are carried at fair value in the Company’s consolidated balance sheets.
Fair value is defined by the ASC Topic 820 as the price that would be received from selling an asset or paid to transfer a liability (i.e., an exit price) in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. The determination of this fair value is based on the principal or most advantageous market in which the Company could commence transactions and considers assumptions that market participants would use when pricing the asset or liability, such as inherent risk, transfer restrictions and risk of nonperformance. Also, determination of fair value assumes that market participants will consider the highest and best use of the asset.
The ASC establishes a fair value hierarchy whereby the inputs contained in valuation techniques used to measure fair value are categorized into three broad levels as follows:
Level 1: quoted market prices in active markets that the reporting entity has the ability to access at the date of the fair value measurement;
Level 2: inputs other than quoted market prices described in Level 1 that are observable for the asset or liability, either directly or indirectly, such as quoted prices in active markets for similar assets or liabilities, quoted prices for identical or similar assets or liabilities in markets that are not active or other inputs that are observable or can be corroborated by observable market data for substantially the full term of the assets or liabilities;
Level 3: unobservable inputs that are supported by little or no market activity and that are significant to the fair value measurement of the assets or liabilities.
Concentration of Credit Risk
Concentration of Credit Risk
Financial instruments that potentially subject the Company to concentration of credit risk principally consist of cash and cash equivalents, short-term investments, trade receivables and derivatives.
For cash and cash equivalents, short-term investments and derivatives, the Company manages its credit exposure by limiting the amount of counterparty risk with any particular financial institution; limits are assigned to each counterparty based on perceived quality of credit and are monitored daily. Cash equivalents are held among various money market deposit accounts, money market
funds, and certificates of deposits as of December 31, 2023 and 2022. Short-term investments primarily consist of certificates of deposit as of December 31, 2023 and 2022. Derivatives primarily consist of foreign exchange forwards or swap contracts (interest rate swaps and cross-currency swaps) as of December 31, 2023 and 2022. For trade receivables, no customer accounted for 10% or more of accounts receivable at December 31, 2023 or 2022.
Earnings per Share of Common Stock
Earnings per Share of Common Stock
Basic shares outstanding is calculated based on the weighted average number of shares of common stock outstanding during the reporting period. Diluted shares outstanding is calculated giving effect to all potentially dilutive common shares, assuming that such shares were outstanding and dilutive during the reporting period.
Pension and Other Retirement Benefits
Pension and Other Retirement Benefits
Moody’s maintains various noncontributory DBPPs as well as other contributory and noncontributory retirement plans. The expense and assets/liabilities that the Company reports for its pension and other retirement benefits are dependent on many assumptions concerning the outcome of future events and circumstances. These assumptions represent the Company’s best estimates and may vary by plan. The differences between the assumptions for the expected long-term rate of return on plan assets and actual experience is spread over a five-year period to the market-related value of plan assets, which is used in determining the expected return on assets component of annual pension expense. All other actuarial gains and losses are generally deferred and amortized over the estimated average future working life of active plan participants.
The Company recognizes as an asset or liability in its consolidated balance sheet the funded status of its defined benefit retirement plans, measured on a plan-by-plan basis. Changes in the funded status due to actuarial gains/losses are recorded as part of other comprehensive income during the period the changes occur.
Use of Estimates
Use of Estimates
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements, and the reported amounts of revenue and expenses during the period. Actual results could differ from those estimates.
v3.24.0.1
REVENUES (Tables)
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Revenue from Contract with Customer [Abstract]  
Disaggregation of Revenue
The following table presents the Company’s revenues disaggregated by LOB:
Year Ended December 31,
202320222021
MA:
Decision Solutions (DS)
Banking$521 $481 $474 
Insurance550 504 245 
KYC312 260 217 
Total DS1,383 1,245 936 
Research and Insights (R&I)884 812 772 
Data and Information (D&I)789 712 698 
Total external revenue3,056 2,769 2,406 
Intersegment revenue13 8 7 
Total MA3,069 2,777 2,413 
MIS:
Corporate finance (CFG)
Investment-grade335 294 439 
High-yield150 108 411 
Bank loans292 275 606 
Other accounts (1)
627 592 631 
Total CFG1,404 1,269 2,087 
Structured finance (SFG)
Asset-backed securities121 116 118 
RMBS92 106 123 
CMBS60 98 102 
Structured credit129 140 215 
Other accounts (SFG)3 2 2 
Total SFG405 462 560 
Financial institutions (FIG)
Banking378 337 411 
Insurance123 113 145 
Managed investments32 28 36 
Other accounts (FIG)12 13 10 
Total FIG545 491 602 
Public, project and infrastructure finance (PPIF)
Public finance / sovereign205 197 244 
Project and infrastructure271 234 277 
Total PPIF476 431 521 
Total ratings revenue2,830 2,653 3,770 
MIS Other30 46 42 
Total external revenue2,860 2,699 3,812 
Intersegment royalty186 174 165 
Total MIS3,046 2,873 3,977 
Eliminations(199)(182)(172)
Total MCO$5,916 $5,468 $6,218 
(1)Other includes: recurring monitoring fees of a rated debt obligation and/or entities that issue such obligations as well as fees from programs such as commercial paper, medium term notes, and ICRA corporate finance revenue.
The following table presents the Company’s revenues disaggregated by LOB and geographic area:
Year Ended December 31, 2023Year Ended December 31, 2022Year Ended December 31, 2021
U.S.Non-U.S.TotalU.S.Non-U.S.TotalU.S.Non-U.S.Total
MA:
Decision Solutions$577 $806 $1,383 $519 $726 $1,245 $387 $549 $936 
Research and Insights490 394 884 470 342 812 426 346 772 
Data and Information281 508 789 250 462 712 226 472 698 
Total MA1,348 1,708 3,056 1,239 1,530 2,769 1,039 1,367 2,406 
MIS:
Corporate finance952 452 1,404 832 437 1,269 1,384 703 2,087 
Structured finance252 153 405 308 154 462 364 196 560 
Financial institutions253 292 545 223 268 491 289 313 602 
Public, project and infrastructure finance292 184 476 266 165 431 304 217 521 
Total ratings revenue1,749 1,081 2,830 1,629 1,024 2,653 2,341 1,429 3,770 
MIS Other1 29 30 5 41 46 3 39 42 
Total MIS1,750 1,110 2,860 1,634 1,065 2,699 2,344 1,468 3,812 
Total MCO$3,098 $2,818 $5,916 $2,873 $2,595 $5,468 $3,383 $2,835 $6,218 

The following table presents the Company's reportable segment revenues disaggregated by segment and geographic region:
Year Ended December 31,
2023
2022
2021
MA:
  U.S.$1,348 $1,239 $1,039 
  Non-U.S.:
   EMEA1,169 1,034 955 
   Asia-Pacific306 285 246 
   Americas233 211 166 
   Total Non-U.S.1,708 1,530 1,367 
  Total MA3,056 2,769 2,406 
MIS:
  U.S.1,750 1,634 2,344 
  Non-U.S.:
   EMEA679 648 930 
   Asia-Pacific271 271 357 
   Americas160 146 181 
   Total Non-U.S.1,110 1,065 1,468 
  Total MIS2,860 2,699 3,812 
Total MCO$5,916 $5,468 $6,218 
The following table summarizes the split between transaction and recurring revenue:
Year Ended December 31,
20232022
2021
TransactionRecurringTotalTransactionRecurringTotalTransactionRecurringTotal
Decision Solutions$169 $1,214 $1,383 $153 $1,092 $1,245 $147 $789 $936 
12 %88 %100 %12 %88 %100 %16 %84 %100 %
Research and Insights$16 $868 $884 $17 $795 $812 $19 $753 $772 
2 %98 %100 %2 %98 %100 %2 %98 %100 %
Data and Information$3 $786 $789 $— $712 $712 $4 $694 $698 
— %100 %100 %— %100 %100 %1 %99 %100 %
Total MA$188 
(1)
$2,868 $3,056 $170 $2,599 $2,769 $170 $2,236 $2,406 
6 %94 %100 %6 %94 %100 %7 %93 %100 %
Corporate Finance$887 $517 $1,404 $772 $497 $1,269 $1,600 $487 $2,087 
63 %37 %100 %61 %39 %100 %77 %23 %100 %
Structured Finance$190 $215 $405 $262 $200 $462 $362 $198 $560 
47 %53 %100 %57 %43 %100 %65 %35 %100 %
Financial Institutions$254 $291 $545 $211 $280 $491 $320 $282 $602 
47 %53 %100 %43 %57 %100 %53 %47 %100 %
Public, Project and Infrastructure Finance$301 $175 $476 $263 $168 $431 $354 $167 $521 
63 %37 %100 %61 %39 %100 %68 %32 %100 %
MIS Other$6 $24 $30 $4 $42 $46 $4 $38 $42 
20 %80 %100 %9 %91 %100 %10 %90 %100 %
Total MIS$1,638 $1,222 $2,860 $1,512 $1,187 $2,699 $2,640 $1,172 $3,812 
57 %43 %100 %56 %44 %100 %69 %31 %100 %
Total Moody’s Corporation$1,826 $4,090 $5,916 $1,682 $3,786 $5,468 $2,810 $3,408 $6,218 
31 %69 %100 %31 %69 %100 %45 %55 %100 %
(1)    Revenue from software implementation services and risk management advisory projects, while classified by management as transactional revenue, is recognized over time under U.S. GAAP (please also refer to the following table).

The following table presents the timing of revenue recognition:
Year Ended December 31, 2023Year Ended December 31, 2022Year Ended December 31, 2021
MAMISTotalMAMISTotalMAMISTotal
Revenue recognized at a point in time$102 $1,638 $1,740 $97 $1,512 $1,609 $101 $2,640 $2,741 
Revenue recognized over time2,954 1,222 4,176 2,672 1,187 3,859 2,305 1,172 3,477 
Total$3,056 $2,860 $5,916 $2,769 $2,699 $5,468 $2,406 $3,812 $6,218 
Unbilled Receivables
The following table presents the Company's unbilled receivables, which are included within accounts receivable, net, at December 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022:
As of December 31, 2023
As of December 31, 2022
MAMISMAMIS
Unbilled Receivables$119 $415 $148 $385 
Schedule of Changes in the Deferred Revenue Balances
Significant changes in the deferred revenue balances during the year ended December 31, 2023 are as follows:
Year Ended December 31, 2023
MAMISTotal
Balance at December 31, 2022
$1,055 $278 $1,333 
Changes in deferred revenue
Revenue recognized that was included in the deferred revenue balance at the beginning of the period(980)(211)(1,191)
Increases due to amounts billable excluding amounts recognized as revenue during the period1,015 200 1,215 
Effect of exchange rate changes21 3 24 
Total changes in deferred revenue56 (8)48 
Balance at December 31, 2023
$1,111 $270 $1,381 
Deferred revenue - current$1,109 $207 $1,316 
Deferred revenue - noncurrent$2 $63 $65 
Significant changes in the deferred revenue balances during the year ended December 31, 2022 are as follows:
Year Ended December 31, 2022
MAMISTotal
Balance at December 31, 2021
$1,039 $296 $1,335 
Changes in deferred revenue
Revenue recognized that was included in the deferred revenue balance at the beginning of the period(996)(210)(1,206)
Increases due to amounts billable excluding amounts recognized as revenue during the period1,018 202 1,220 
Increases due to acquisitions during the period1 — 1 
Effect of exchange rate changes(7)(10)(17)
Total changes in deferred revenue16 (18)(2)
Balance at December 31, 2022
$1,055 $278 $1,333 
Deferred revenue - current
$1,053 $205 $1,258 
Deferred revenue - noncurrent
$2 $73 $75 
Significant changes in the deferred revenue balances during the year ended December 31, 2021 are as follows:
Year Ended December 31, 2021
MAMISTotal
Balance at December 31, 2020
$874 $313 $1,187 
Changes in deferred revenue
Revenue recognized that was included in the deferred revenue balance at the beginning of the period(810)(220)(1,030)
Increases due to amounts billable excluding amounts recognized as revenue during the period884 207 1,091 
Increases due to acquisitions during the period94 — 94 
Effect of exchange rate changes(3)(4)(7)
Total changes in deferred revenue165 (17)148 
Balance at December 31, 2021
$1,039 $296 $1,335 
Deferred revenue—current$1,035 $214 $1,249 
Deferred revenue—noncurrent$4 $82 $86 
Capitalized Contract Cost
MA Costs to Obtain a Contract with a Customer
As of December 31,
2023
2022
Capitalized costs to obtain sales contracts$268 $232 
Year ended December 31,
202320222021
Amortization of capitalized costs to obtain sales contracts$102 $80 $60 
MA and MIS Costs to Fulfill a Contract with a Customer
As of December 31, 2023
As of December 31, 2022
MAMISTotalMAMISTotal
Capitalized costs to fulfill sales contracts$35 $9 $44 $33 $12 $45 

Year Ended
December 31, 2023		Year Ended
December 31, 2022		Year Ended
December 31, 2021
MAMISTotalMAMISTotalMAMISTotal
Amortization of capitalized costs to fulfill sales contracts$70 $44 $114 $69 $54 $123 $76 $48 $124 
v3.24.0.1
RECONCILIATION OF WEIGHTED AVERAGE SHARES OUTSTANDING (Tables)
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]  
Reconciliation of Basic to Diluted Shares Outstanding
Below is a reconciliation of basic to diluted shares outstanding:
Year Ended December 31,
202320222021
Basic183.2 183.9 186.4 
Dilutive effect of shares issuable under stock-based compensation plans0.8 0.8 1.5 
Diluted184.0 184.7 187.9 
Antidilutive options to purchase common shares and restricted stock as well as contingently issuable restricted stock which are excluded from the table above0.5 0.5 0.2 
v3.24.0.1
CASH EQUIVALENTS AND INVESTMENTS (Tables)
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Cash and Cash Equivalents [Abstract]  
Cash and Cash Equivalents
The tables below provide additional information on the Company’s cash equivalents and investments:
As of December 31, 2023
CostGross Unrealized GainsFair Value
Consolidated Balance Sheet location
Cash and cash equivalentsShort-term investmentsOther assets
Certificates of deposit and money market deposit accounts/funds (1)
$1,178 $— $1,178 $1,112 $63 $3 
Mutual funds$91 $6 $97 $— $— $97 
As of December 31, 2022
CostGross Unrealized GainsFair Value
Consolidated Balance Sheet location
Cash and cash equivalentsShort-term investmentsOther assets
Certificates of deposit and money market deposit accounts (1)
$914 $— $914 $808 $90 $16 
Mutual funds$71 $— $71 $— $— $71 
(1)     Consists of time deposits, money market deposit accounts and money market funds. The remaining contractual maturities for the certificates of deposits classified as short-term investments are one month to 12 months at both December 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022. The remaining contractual maturities for the certificates of deposits classified in other assets are 14 months at December 31, 2023 and 13 months to 24 months at December 31, 2022. Time deposits with a maturity of less than 90 days at time of purchase are classified as cash and cash equivalents.
v3.24.0.1
DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS AND HEDGING ACTIVITIES (Tables)
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract]  
Schedule of Derivative Instruments
The following table summarizes the Company’s interest rate swaps designated as fair value hedges:
Nature of Swap
As of December 31, 2023
As of December 31, 2022
Hedged Item
Notional Amount
Floating 
Interest Rate (1)
Notional Amount
Floating 
Interest Rate
2017 Senior Notes due 2028Pay Floating/Receive Fixed$500 
SOFR
$500  3-month LIBOR
2020 Senior Notes due 2025Pay Floating/Receive Fixed300 SOFR300  6-month LIBOR
2014 Senior Notes due 2044Pay Floating/Receive Fixed300 SOFR300  3-month LIBOR
2018 Senior Notes due 2048Pay Floating/Receive Fixed300 SOFR300  3-month LIBOR
2018 Senior Notes due 2029
Pay Floating/Receive Fixed400 SOFR400  SOFR
2022 Senior Notes due 2052
Pay Floating/Receive Fixed500 SOFR500  SOFR
2022 Senior Notes due 2032
Pay Floating/Receive Fixed250 SOFR250  SOFR
Total$2,550 $2,550 
(1)     Contractual terms of instruments using the 3-month or 6-month LIBOR at December 31, 2022 were modified to the SOFR reference rate in the first quarter of 2023.
The following table provides information on the cross-currency swaps designated as net investment hedges under ASC Topic 815:
December 31, 2023
PayReceive
Nature of SwapNotional AmountWeighted Average Interest RateNotional AmountWeighted Average Interest Rate
Pay Fixed/Receive Fixed€765 3.67%$800 5.25%
Pay Floating/Receive Floating2,138 Based on ESTR2,250 Based on SOFR
Total€2,903 $3,050 
December 31, 2022
PayReceive
Nature of SwapNotional AmountWeighted Average Interest RateNotional AmountWeighted Average Interest Rate
Pay Fixed/Receive Fixed€765 3.67%$800 5.25%
Pay Floating/Receive Floating450 Based on 3-month EURIBOR500 Based on 3-month USD LIBOR
Pay Floating/Receive Floating1,688 Based on ESTR1,750 Based on SOFR
Total€2,903 $3,050 
Gains and Losses on Derivatives Designated as Hedging Instruments
The following table summarizes the impact to the statements of operations of the Company’s interest rate swaps designated as fair value hedges:
Total amounts of financial statement line item presented in the statements of operations in which the effects of fair value hedges are recordedAmount of Income (Expense)
Recognized in the Consolidated
Statements of Operations
Year Ended December 31,
202320222021
Interest expense, net$(251)$(231)$(171)

Descriptions		Location on Consolidated Statements of Operations
Net interest settlements and accruals on interest rate swapsInterest expense, net$(89)$(8)$23 
Fair value changes on interest rate swapsInterest expense, net$56 $(228)$(60)
Fair value changes on hedged debtInterest expense, net$(56)$228 $60 
Schedule of Net Investment Hedges, Notional Amount That Will Be Settled At Expiry
As of December 31, 2023, these hedges will expire and the notional amounts will be settled as follows unless terminated early at the discretion of the Company:
Year Ending December 31,
Notional Amount (Pay)
Notional Amount (Receive)
2026€450 $500 
2027531 550 
2028588 600 
2029373 400 
2031481 500 
2032480 500 
Total€2,903 $3,050 
Amount of Gain/(Loss) Recognized in AOCI on Derivative Net Investment Hedging Relationships
The following table provides information on the gains/(losses) on the Company’s net investment and cash flow hedges:
Amount of Gain/(Loss)
Recognized in AOCL on
Derivative, net of Tax
Amount of Gain/(Loss)
Reclassified from AOCL into Income, net of tax
Gain/(Loss) Recognized in
Income on Derivative
(Amount Excluded from
Effectiveness Testing)
Derivative and Non-Derivative Instruments in Net Investment Hedging RelationshipsYear Ended December 31,Year Ended December 31,Year Ended December 31,
202320222021202320222021202320222021
FX forward contracts$— $— $18 $— $— $1 $— $— $— 
Cross currency swaps(97)99 143 — — — 54 56 35 
Long-term debt(35)65 81 — — — — — — 
Total net investment hedges$(132)$164 $242 $— $— $1 $54 $56 $35 
Derivatives in Cash Flow Hedging Relationships
Cross currency swaps$— $— $— $1 $— $— $— $— $— 
Interest rate contracts— — — (2)(2)(2)— — — 
Total cash flow hedges$— $— $— $(1)$(2)$(2)$— $— $— 
Total$(132)$164 $242 $(1)$(2)$(1)$54 $56 $35 
Components of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income
The cumulative amount of net investment hedge and cash flow hedge gains (losses) remaining in AOCL is as follows:
Cumulative Gains/(Losses), net of tax
December 31, 2023December 31, 2022
Net investment hedges
Cross currency swaps$21 $118 
FX forwards 29 29 
Long-term debt 3 38 
Total net investment hedges53 185 
Cash flow hedges
Interest rate contracts(45)(47)
Cross-currency swaps1 2 
Total cash flow hedges(44)(45)
Total net gain in AOCL
$9 $140 
The following tables show changes in AOCL by component (net of tax):
Year Ended December 31, 2023
Pension and 
Other Retirement Benefits
Gains/(Losses) on Cash Flow Hedges
Foreign 
Currency Translation Adjustments		Net Investment HedgesTotal
Balance at December 31, 2022
$(47)$(45)$(736)$185 $(643)
Other comprehensive income/(loss) before reclassifications(6)— 216 (132)78 
Amounts reclassified from AOCL(3)1 — — (2)
Other comprehensive income/(loss)(9)1 216 (132)76 
Balance at December 31, 2023
$(56)$(44)$(520)$53 $(567)
Year Ended December 31, 2022
Pension and 
Other Retirement Benefits
Gains/(Losses) on Cash Flow Hedges
Foreign 
Currency Translation Adjustments		Net Investment HedgesTotal
Balance at December 31, 2021
$(49)$(47)$(335)$21 $(410)
Other comprehensive income/(loss) before reclassifications— — (421)164 (257)
Amounts reclassified from AOCL2 2 20 — 24 
Other comprehensive income/(loss)2 2 (401)164 (233)
Balance at December 31, 2022
$(47)$(45)$(736)$185 $(643)
Year Ended December 31, 2021
Pension and 
Other Retirement Benefits
Gains/(Losses) on Cash Flow Hedges
Foreign 
Currency Translation Adjustments		Net Investment HedgesTotal
Balance at December 31, 2020
$(118)$(49)$(45)$(220)$(432)
Other comprehensive income/(loss) before reclassifications55 — (290)242 7 
Amounts reclassified from AOCL14 2 — (1)15 
Other comprehensive income/(loss)69 2 (290)241 22 
Balance at December 31, 2021
$(49)$(47)$(335)$21 $(410)
Summary of Notional Amounts of Outstanding Derivative Positions
The following table summarizes the notional amounts of the Company’s outstanding foreign exchange forwards:
 December 31, 2023December 31, 2022
Notional Amount of Currency Pair:SellBuySellBuy
Contracts to sell USD for GBP$513 
£
407 $170 
£
146 
Contracts to sell USD for Japanese yen$14 ¥2,000 $24 ¥3,500 
Contracts to sell USD for Canadian dollars$147 
C$
200 $87 C$120 
Contracts to sell USD for Singapore dollars$50 
S$
67 $50 
S$
70 
Contracts to sell USD for euros$60 
€
55 $116 
€
115 
Contracts to sell USD for Indian rupee$23 
₹
1,900 $19 
₹
1,600 
Contracts to sell euros for USD€— $— €85 $89 
Contracts to sell USD for AUD$5 
A$
8 $— 
A$
— 
Contracts to sell Canadian dollars for USDC$25 
$
19 C$— 
$
— 
NOTE: € = euro, £ = British pound, S$ = Singapore dollar, $ = U.S. dollar, ¥ = Japanese yen, C$ = Canadian dollar, ₹= Indian rupee, A$ = Australian dollar
Gains and Losses Recognized in Consolidated Statement of Operations on Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging instruments
The following table summarizes the impact to the consolidated statements of operations relating to the net gains and (losses) on the Company’s derivatives which are not designated as hedging instruments:
Year Ended December 31,
Derivatives Not Designated as Accounting Hedges
Consolidated Statements of Operations Location
202320222021
FX forwardsOther non-operating income, net$15 $(72)$(27)
Foreign exchange forwards relating to RMS acquisition (1)
Other non-operating income, net$— $— $(13)
Total return swaps
Operating expense
$2 $— $— 
Total return swaps
SG&A expense
$1 $— $— 
(1)     The Company entered into forward contracts to sell $1,675 million for £1,200 million to hedge a portion of the GBP denominated RMS purchase price. The contract was terminated on September 14, 2021 and resulted in a $13 million loss.
Fair Value of Derivative Instruments
The table below shows the classification between assets and liabilities on the Company’s consolidated balance sheets for the fair value of the derivative instruments as well as the carrying value of its non-derivative debt instruments designated and qualifying as net investment hedges:
Derivative and Non-derivative Instruments
Consolidated Balance Sheet Location
December 31, 2023December 31, 2022
Assets:
Derivatives designated as accounting hedges:
Cross-currency swaps designated as net investment hedgesOther assets$3 $27 
Derivatives not designated as accounting hedges:
FX forwards on certain assets and liabilitiesOther current assets13 19 
Total assets$16 $46 
Liabilities:
Derivatives designated as accounting hedges:
Cross-currency swaps designated as net investment hedgesOther liabilities$183 $78 
Interest rate swaps designated as fair value hedgesOther liabilities183 239 
Total derivatives designated as accounting hedges366 317 
Non-derivative instruments designated as accounting hedge:
Long-term debt designated as net investment hedgeLong-term debt1,381 1,334 
Derivatives not designated as accounting hedges:
FX forwards on certain assets and liabilitiesAccounts payable and accrued liabilities— 2 
Total liabilities$1,747 $1,653 
v3.24.0.1
PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT, NET (Tables)
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract]  
Property and Equipment, Net
Property and equipment, net consisted of:
December 31,
20232022
Office and computer equipment (3 - 10 year estimated useful life)
$354 $339 
Office furniture and fixtures (3 - 10 year estimated useful life)
57 54 
Internal-use computer software (1 - 10 year estimated useful life)
1,232 995 
Leasehold improvements and building (1 - 20 year estimated useful life)
232 237 
Total property and equipment, at cost1,875 1,625 
Less: accumulated depreciation and amortization(1,272)(1,123)
Total property and equipment, net$603 $502 
v3.24.0.1
ACQUISITION (Tables)
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Business Combination and Asset Acquisition [Abstract]  
Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition
The table below details the total consideration relating to the acquisition:
Cash paid at closing $1,922 
Replacement equity compensation awards5 
Total consideration$1,927 
Summary of Fair Values of Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed
Shown below is the purchase price allocation, which summarizes the fair value of the assets and liabilities assumed, at the date of acquisition:
Cash
$55 
Accounts receivable38 
Other current assets
12 
Property and equipment 13 
Operating lease right-of-use assets64 
Intangible assets:
Customer relationships (23 year useful life)
$518 
Product technology (7 year useful life)
212 
Trade name (9 year useful life)
49 
Total intangible assets (18 year weighted average useful life)
779 
Goodwill
1,357 
Deferred tax assets, net50 
Other assets99 
Liabilities:
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities
$(96)
Deferred revenue(89)
Operating lease liabilities(68)
Deferred tax liabilities, net(214)
Uncertain tax positions
(71)
Other liabilities(2)
Total liabilities(540)
Net assets acquired$1,927 
BvD Pro Forma Information
Supplemental information on an unaudited pro forma basis is presented below for the twelve months ended December 31, 2021 as if the acquisition of RMS occurred on January 1, 2021. The pro forma financial information is presented for comparative purposes only, based on certain estimates and assumptions, which the Company believes to be reasonable but not necessarily indicative of future results of operations or the results that would have been reported if the acquisition had been completed at January 1, 2021. The unaudited pro forma information includes amortization of acquired intangible assets, based on the purchase price allocation and an estimate of useful lives reflected above, and incremental financing costs resulting from the acquisition, net of income tax, which was estimated using the weighted average statutory tax rates in effect in the jurisdiction for which the pro forma adjustment relates. 
Unaudited Year Ended December 31, 2021
Pro forma Revenue $6,463 
Pro forma Net Income attributable to Moody's$2,244 
v3.24.0.1
GOODWILL AND OTHER ACQUIRED INTANGIBLE ASSETS (Tables)
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]  
Activity in Goodwill
The following tables summarize the activity in goodwill:
Year Ended December 31, 2023
MAMISConsolidated
Gross
goodwill		Accumulated
impairment
charge		Net
goodwill		Gross
goodwill		Accumulated
impairment
charge		Net
goodwill		Gross
goodwill		Accumulated
impairment
charge		Net
goodwill
Balance at beginning of year$5,474 $(12)$5,462 $377 $— $377 $5,851 $(12)$5,839 
Additions/
adjustments (1)
90 — 90 (87)— (87)3 — 3 
Foreign currency translation adjustments117 — 117 (3)— (3)114 — 114 
Ending Balance$5,681 $(12)$5,669 $287 $— $287 $5,968 $(12)$5,956 
Year Ended December 31, 2022
MAMISConsolidated
Gross
goodwill		Accumulated
impairment
charge		Net
goodwill		Gross
goodwill		Accumulated
impairment
charge		Net
goodwill		Gross
goodwill		Accumulated
impairment
charge		Net
goodwill
Balance at beginning of year$5,615 $(12)$5,603 $396 $— $396 $6,011 $(12)$5,999 
Additions/
adjustments (2)
88 — 88 4 — 4 92 — 92 
Foreign currency translation adjustments(229)— (229)(23)— (23)(252)— (252)
Ending balance$5,474 $(12)$5,462 $377 $— $377 $5,851 $(12)$5,839 
(1)The 2023 additions/adjustments primarily relate to a reallocation of goodwill pursuant to a realignment of certain components of the Company's ESG business in the first quarter of 2023.
(2)The 2022 additions/adjustments for the MA segment in the table above primarily relate to the acquisition of kompany in the first quarter of 2022, partially offset by RMS measurement period adjustments in the third quarter of 2022.
Acquired Intangible Assets and Related Amortization
Acquired intangible assets and related accumulated amortization consisted of:
December 31,
20232022
Customer relationships$2,065 $2,024 
Accumulated amortization(556)(453)
Net customer relationships1,509 1,571 
Software/product technology674 661 
Accumulated amortization(364)(283)
Net software/product technology310 378 
Database179 178 
Accumulated amortization(82)(64)
Net database97 114 
Trade names199 197 
Accumulated amortization(72)(58)
Net trade names127 139 
Other (1)
52 52 
Accumulated amortization(46)(44)
Net other6 8 
Total$2,049 $2,210 
(1)Other intangible assets primarily consist of trade secrets, covenants not to compete, and acquired ratings methodologies and models.
Amortization Expense Relating to Acquired Intangible Assets
Amortization expense relating to acquired intangible assets is as follows:
Year Ended December 31,
202320222021
Amortization expense$198 $200 $158 
Estimated Future Amortization Expense for Acquired Intangible Assets Subject to Amortization
Estimated future annual amortization expense for intangible assets subject to amortization is as follows:
Year Ending December 31,
2024$193 
2025190 
2026186 
2027170 
2028158 
Thereafter1,152 
Total estimated future amortization$2,049 
v3.24.0.1
RESTRUCTURING (Tables)
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Restructuring and Related Activities [Abstract]  
Restructuring Expenses Included in Consolidated Statements of Operations
Total expenses included in the accompanying consolidated statements of operations relating to the Company's 2022 - 2023 Geolocation Restructuring Program are as follows (table excludes immaterial adjustments relating to the finalization of prior programs in previous years):
Year ended December 31,
Cumulative expense incurred
2022 - 2023 Geolocation Restructuring Program
20232022
Employee Termination Costs (1)
$51 $85 $136 
Real Estate Related Costs (2)
36 27 63 
Other Costs (3)
— 1 1 
Total Restructuring$87 $113 $200 
(1)Amount in the year ended December 31, 2023 includes severance costs, while amount in the year ended December 31, 2022 includes both severance costs and expense related to the modification of equity awards.
(2)For the year ended December 31, 2023, primarily includes ROU Asset impairment charges. For the year ended December 31, 2022, primarily includes ROU Asset and leasehold improvement impairment charges and the non-cash acceleration of amortization of abandoned ROU Assets and leasehold improvements. The fair value of the impaired assets in both periods was determined by utilizing the present value of the estimated future cash flows attributable to the assets. The fair value of those assets subsequent to the impairment for the year ended December 31, 2023 was $4 million and was categorized as Level 3 within the ASC Topic 820 fair value hierarchy. The fair value of those assets subsequent to the impairment for the year ended December 31, 2022 was $0.
(3)Primarily includes professional service fees related to execution of the restructuring program.
The table below shows cumulative restructuring expense incurred through December 31, 2023 by reportable segment.
MA
MIS
Total
2022 - 2023 Geolocation Restructuring Program$108 $92 $200 
Changes to the Restructuring Liability
Changes to the restructuring liability were as follows:
20232022
Balance as of January 1$65 $4 
2020 MA Strategic Reorganization Restructuring Program:
Cost incurred and adjustments— (1)
Cash payments(1)(2)
2022 - 2023 Geolocation Restructuring Program:
Cost incurred and adjustments51 86 
Cash payments and adjustments
(79)(22)
Balance as of December 31 (1)
$36 $65 
(1)Restructuring liability is primarily comprised of employee termination costs, with an immaterial amount of real estate-related and other costs. Amounts related to the year ended December 31, 2021 are not considered material for disclosure.
v3.24.0.1
FAIR VALUE (Tables)
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]  
Financial Instruments Carried at Fair Value on Recurring Basis
The tables below present information about items that are carried at fair value at December 31, 2023 and 2022:
Fair value Measurement as of December 31, 2023
DescriptionBalanceLevel 1Level 2
Assets:
Derivatives (1)
$16 $— $16 
Money market funds/mutual funds
107 107 — 
Total$123 $107 $16 
Liabilities:
Derivatives (1)
$366 $— $366 
Total$366 $— $366 
Fair Value Measurement as of December 31, 2022
DescriptionBalanceLevel 1Level 2
Assets:
Derivatives (1)
$46 $— $46 
Mutual funds71 71 — 
Total$117 $71 $46 
Liabilities:
Derivatives (1)
$319 $— $319 
Total$319 $— $319 
(1)Represents fair value of certain derivative contracts as more fully described in Note 7 to the consolidated financial statements.
v3.24.0.1
OTHER BALANCE SHEET INFORMATION (Tables)
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Other Balance Sheet Information [Abstract]  
Additional Details Related to Certain Balance Sheet Captions
The following tables contain additional detail related to certain balance sheet captions:
December 31,
20232022
Other current assets:
Prepaid taxes$115 $235 
Prepaid expenses133 119 
Capitalized costs to obtain and fulfill sales contracts116 106 
Foreign exchange forwards on certain assets and liabilities13 19 
Interest receivable on interest rate and cross currency swaps79 74 
Other33 30 
Total other current assets$489 $583 
December 31,
20232022
Other assets:
Investments in non-consolidated affiliates$521 $517 
Deposits for real-estate leases16 15 
Indemnification assets related to acquisitions111 110 
Mutual funds, certificates of deposit and money market deposit accounts/funds
100 87 
Company owned life insurance (at contract value)47 40 
Costs to obtain sales contracts196 171 
Derivative instruments designated as accounting hedges3 27 
Pension and other retirement employee benefits41 40 
Other103 85 
Total other assets$1,138 $1,092 
December 31,
20232022
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities:
Salaries and benefits$130 $104 
Incentive compensation345 276 
Customer credits, advanced payments and advanced billings105 102 
Dividends7 6 
Professional service fees46 49 
Interest accrued on debt83 92 
Accounts payable23 52 
Income taxes108 86 
Pension and other retirement employee benefits15 7 
Accrued royalties24 23 
Foreign exchange forwards on certain assets and liabilities— 2 
Restructuring liability35 65 
Interest payable on interest rate and cross currency swaps67 52 
Other88 95 
Total accounts payable and accrued liabilities$1,076 $1,011 
December 31,
20232022
Other liabilities:
Pension and other retirement employee benefits$190 $189 
Interest accrued on UTPs36 47 
MAKS indemnification provisions19 23 
Income tax liability – non-current portion15 48 
Derivative instruments designated as accounting hedges366 317 
Restructuring liability – non-current portion1 — 
Other49 50 
Total other liabilities$676 $674 
Investments in and Advances to Affiliates
The following table provides additional detail regarding Moody's investments in non-consolidated affiliates, as included in other assets in the consolidated balance sheets:
December 31,
20232022
Equity method investments (1)
$186 $187 
Investments measured using the measurement alternative (2)
327 325 
Other8 5 
Total investments in non-consolidated affiliates$521 $517 
(1)Equity securities in which the Company has significant influence over the investee but does not have a controlling financial interest in accordance with ASC Topic 323.
(2)Equity securities without readily determinable fair value for which the Company has elected to apply the measurement alternative in accordance with ASC Topic 321, which is more fully discussed in Note 2.
v3.24.0.1
COMPREHENSIVE INCOME AND ACCUMULATED OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (Tables)
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Equity [Abstract]  
Reclassifications out of AOCI
The following table provides details about the reclassifications out of AOCL:
Year Ended December 31,
Location in the Consolidated
Statements of Operations
202320222021
Losses on currency translation adjustments
Foreign currency translation adjustments - reclassification of losses included in net income$— $(20)$— Other non-operating income, net
Total losses on currency translation adjustments— (20)— 
Losses on cash flow hedges
Cross-currency swap1 1 — Other non-operating income, net
Interest rate contract(3)(3)(2)Other non-operating income, net
Total before income taxes(2)(2)(2)
Income tax effect of item above1 — — Provision for income taxes
Total net losses on cash flow hedges(1)(2)(2)
Gains on net investment hedges
FX forwards— — 2 Other non-operating income, net
Total before income taxes— — 2 
Income tax effect of item above— — (1)Provision for income taxes
Total net gains on net investment hedges— — 1 
Pension and other retirement benefits
Amortization of actuarial gains (losses), prior service credits (costs), and settlement gain (charge) included in net income
2 (3)(11)Other non-operating income, net
Settlement credit (charge)
1 — (8)Other non-operating income, net
Total before income taxes3 (3)(19)
Income tax effect of item above— 1 5 Provision for income taxes
Total pension and other retirement benefits3 (2)(14)
Total net gains (losses) included in Net Income attributable to reclassifications out of AOCL
$2 $(24)$(15)
Components of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income
The cumulative amount of net investment hedge and cash flow hedge gains (losses) remaining in AOCL is as follows:
Cumulative Gains/(Losses), net of tax
December 31, 2023December 31, 2022
Net investment hedges
Cross currency swaps$21 $118 
FX forwards 29 29 
Long-term debt 3 38 
Total net investment hedges53 185 
Cash flow hedges
Interest rate contracts(45)(47)
Cross-currency swaps1 2 
Total cash flow hedges(44)(45)
Total net gain in AOCL
$9 $140 
The following tables show changes in AOCL by component (net of tax):
Year Ended December 31, 2023
Pension and 
Other Retirement Benefits
Gains/(Losses) on Cash Flow Hedges
Foreign 
Currency Translation Adjustments		Net Investment HedgesTotal
Balance at December 31, 2022
$(47)$(45)$(736)$185 $(643)
Other comprehensive income/(loss) before reclassifications(6)— 216 (132)78 
Amounts reclassified from AOCL(3)1 — — (2)
Other comprehensive income/(loss)(9)1 216 (132)76 
Balance at December 31, 2023
$(56)$(44)$(520)$53 $(567)
Year Ended December 31, 2022
Pension and 
Other Retirement Benefits
Gains/(Losses) on Cash Flow Hedges
Foreign 
Currency Translation Adjustments		Net Investment HedgesTotal
Balance at December 31, 2021
$(49)$(47)$(335)$21 $(410)
Other comprehensive income/(loss) before reclassifications— — (421)164 (257)
Amounts reclassified from AOCL2 2 20 — 24 
Other comprehensive income/(loss)2 2 (401)164 (233)
Balance at December 31, 2022
$(47)$(45)$(736)$185 $(643)
Year Ended December 31, 2021
Pension and 
Other Retirement Benefits
Gains/(Losses) on Cash Flow Hedges
Foreign 
Currency Translation Adjustments		Net Investment HedgesTotal
Balance at December 31, 2020
$(118)$(49)$(45)$(220)$(432)
Other comprehensive income/(loss) before reclassifications55 — (290)242 7 
Amounts reclassified from AOCL14 2 — (1)15 
Other comprehensive income/(loss)69 2 (290)241 22 
Balance at December 31, 2021
$(49)$(47)$(335)$21 $(410)
v3.24.0.1
PENSION AND OTHER RETIREMENT BENEFITS (Tables)
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Retirement Benefits [Abstract]  
Summary of Changes in Benefit Obligations and Fair Value of Plan Assets for Retirement Plans ollowing is a summary of changes in benefit obligations and fair value of plan assets for the Retirement Plans for the years ended December 31:
Pension PlansOther Retirement Plans
2023202220232022
Change in benefit obligation:
Benefit obligation, beginning of the period$(462)$(570)$(39)$(48)
Service cost(11)(14)(3)(4)
Interest cost(22)(15)(2)(1)
Plan participants’ contributions— — (1)(1)
Benefits paid30 20 2 2 
Actuarial (loss) gain (4)1 2 — 
Assumption changes(15)116 (1)13 
Benefit obligation, end of the period$(484)$(462)$(42)$(39)
Change in plan assets:
Fair value of plan assets, beginning of the period$420 $544 $— $— 
Actual return on plan assets48 (111)— — 
Benefits paid(30)(20)(2)(2)
Employer contributions11 7 1 1 
Plan participants’ contributions— — 1 1 
Fair value of plan assets, end of the period$449 $420 $— $— 
Funded status of the plans$(35)$(42)$(42)$(39)
Amounts recorded on the consolidated balance sheets:
Pension and retirement benefits asset – non current$40 $39 $— $— 
Pension and retirement benefits liability – current(13)(5)(2)(2)
Pension and retirement benefits liability – non current(62)(76)(40)(37)
Net amount recognized$(35)$(42)$(42)$(39)
Accumulated benefit obligation, end of the period$(453)$(432)
Accumulated Benefit Obligation in Excess of Plan Assets
The following information is for those pension plans with an accumulated benefit obligation in excess of plan assets:
December 31,
20232022
Aggregate projected benefit obligation$75 $82 
Aggregate accumulated benefit obligation$67 $72 
Summary of Pre-Tax Net Actuarial Losses and Prior Service Cost Recognized in AOCI
The following table summarizes the pre-tax net actuarial losses and prior service costs recognized in AOCL for the Company’s Retirement Plans as of December 31:
Pension PlansOther Retirement Plans
2023202220232022
Net actuarial gains (losses)
$(82)$(77)$10 $9 
Net prior service credits1 2 — — 
Total recognized in AOCL – pre-tax
$(81)$(75)$10 $9 
Components of Net Periodic Benefit Expense Related to Retirement Plans
Net periodic pension (income) expenses recognized for the Retirement Plans are as follows for the years ended December 31:
Pension PlansOther Retirement Plans
202320222021202320222021
Components of net periodic expense
Service cost$11 $14 $19 $3 $4 $4 
Interest cost22 15 14 2 1 1 
Expected return on plan assets(32)(26)(27)— — — 
Amortization of net actuarial (gains) losses and prior service credits from earlier periods
(1)3 11 (1)— 1 
(Gain) loss on settlement of pension obligations
(2)— 8 — — — 
Net periodic (income) expense
$(2)$6 $25 $4 $5 $6 
Summary of Pre-Tax Amounts Recorded in OCI
The following table summarizes the pre-tax amounts recorded in OCI related to the Company’s Retirement Plans for the years ended December 31:
Pension PlansOther Retirement Plans
202320222021202320222021
Amortization of net actuarial (gains) losses and prior service credit
$(1)$3 $11 $(1)$— $1 
Settlement (gain) loss
(2)— 8 — — — 
Net actuarial (loss)/gain arising during the period(3)(19)65 1 13 4 
Total recognized in OCI – pre-tax$(6)$(16)$84 $— $13 $5 
Weighted-average Assumptions Used to Determine Benefit Obligations and Net Periodic Benefit Expenses
Weighted-average assumptions used to determine benefit obligations at December 31:
Pension PlansOther Retirement Plans
2023202220232022
Discount rate4.73 %4.93 %4.75 %4.90 %
Rate of compensation increase3.60 %3.63 %— — 
Weighted-average assumptions used to determine net periodic benefit expense for years ended December 31:
Pension PlansOther Retirement Plans
202320222021202320222021
Discount rate4.93 %2.60 %2.24 %4.90 %2.65 %2.30 %
Expected return on plan assets6.55 %5.05 %5.45 %— — — 
Rate of compensation increase3.63 %3.63 %3.62 %— — — 
Cash balance plan interest crediting rate4.50 %4.50 %4.50 %— — — 
Summary of Pension Plan Assets by Category Based on Hierarchy of Fair Value Measurements
Fair value of the assets in the Company’s funded pension plan by asset category at December 31, 2023 and 2022 are as follows:
Fair Value Measurement as of December 31, 2023
Asset CategoryBalanceLevel 1Level 2
Measured using NAV practical expedient (1)
% of total
assets
Cash and cash equivalents
$5 $— $5 $— 1 %
Common/collective trust funds—equity securities
U.S. large-cap106 — 106 — 24 %
U.S. small and mid-cap21 — 21 — 5 %
Emerging markets20 — 20 — 4 %
Total equity investments147 — 147 — 33 %
Emerging markets bond fund29 — — 29 6 %
Common/collective trust funds and corporate bonds—fixed income securities
Intermediate-term investment grade U.S. government/ corporate bonds60 — 60 — 13 %
Mutual funds
Long duration corporate bonds144 — 144 — 32 %
U.S. Treasury Inflation-Protected Securities (TIPs)25 25 — — 6 %
Private investment fund—high yield securities14 — — 14 3 %
Total fixed-income investments272 25 204 43 60 %
Other investment—private real estate fund25 — — 25 5 %
Total Assets$449 $25 $356 $68 100 %
Fair Value Measurement as of December 31, 2022
Asset CategoryBalanceLevel 1Level 2
Measured using NAV practical expedient (1)
% of total
assets
Cash and cash equivalents
$5 $— $5 $— 1 %
Common/collective trust funds—equity securities
U.S. large-cap96 — 96 — 23 %
U.S. small and mid-cap17 — 17 — 4 %
Emerging markets19 — 19 — 5 %
Total equity investments132 — 132 — 31 %
Emerging markets bond fund26 — — 26 6 %
Common/collective trust funds and corporate bonds—fixed income securities
Intermediate-term investment grade U.S. government/ corporate bonds54 — 54 — 13 %
Mutual funds
Long duration corporate bonds126 — 126 — 30 %
U.S. Treasury Inflation-Protected Securities (TIPs)24 24 — — 6 %
Convertible securities14 14 — — 3 %
Private investment fund—high yield securities12 — — 12 3 %
Total fixed-income investments256 38 180 38 61 %
Other investment—private real estate debt fund27 — — 27 6 %
Total Assets$420 $38 $317 $65 100 %
(1)Investments are measured using the net asset value per share (or its equivalent) practical expedient and have not been categorized in the fair value hierarchy. The fair value amounts presented in the table are intended to permit a reconciliation of the fair value hierarchy to the value of the total plan assets.
Estimated Future Benefits Payments for Retirement Plans
Estimated future benefits payments for the Retirement Plans are as follows as of the year ended December 31, 2023:
Year Ending December 31,Pension PlansOther Retirement Plans
2024$28 $2 
202525 2 
202628 2 
202730 2 
202830 3 
2029 - 2033167 18 
v3.24.0.1
STOCK-BASED COMPENSATION PLANS (Tables)
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Share-Based Payment Arrangement [Abstract]  
Stock-Based Compensation Cost and Associated Tax Benefit
Presented below is a summary of the stock-based compensation expense and associated tax benefit in the accompanying consolidated statements of operations:
Year Ended December 31,
202320222021
Stock-based compensation expense$193 $169 $175 
Tax benefit$45 $41 $42 
Weighted Average Assumptions used in Determining Fair Value for Options Granted
The following weighted average assumptions were used for options granted (excluding the aforementioned RMS replacement awards for the year ended December 31, 2021):
Year Ended December 31,
202320222021
Expected dividend yield1.04 %0.86 %0.89 %
Expected stock volatility29 %27 %28 %
Risk-free interest rate4.19 %1.91 %0.82 %
Expected holding period (in years)5.85.65.6
The following represents the fair value of the options at grant date (including the RMS replacement option awards for the year ended December 31, 2021):
Year Ended December 31,
202320222021
Weighted average grant date fair value per share$94.71 $84.00 $121.14 
Share-based Payment Arrangement, Option and Stock Appreciation Rights, Activity
A summary of option activity as of December 31, 2023 and changes during the year then ended is presented below:
OptionsSharesWeighted Average Exercise Price Per ShareWeighted Average Remaining Contractual TermAggregate Intrinsic Value
Outstanding, December 31, 2022
1.0 $181.35 
Granted0.1 $295.42 
Exercised(0.3)$116.05 
Outstanding, December 31, 2023
0.8 $212.29 5.0 years$147 
Vested and expected to vest, December 31, 2023
0.8 $212.11 5.0 years$147 
Exercisable, December 31, 2023
0.6 $176.07 3.8 years$123 
Stock Option Exercises and Restricted Stock Vesting
The following table summarizes information relating to stock option exercises:
Year Ended December 31,
202320222021
Proceeds from stock option exercises$32 $8 $24 
Aggregate intrinsic value$58 $9 $55 
Tax benefit realized upon exercise$14 $2 $13 
Share-based Payment Arrangement, Restricted Stock and Restricted Stock Unit, Activity
A summary of nonvested restricted stock activity for the year ended December 31, 2023 is presented below:
Nonvested Restricted StockSharesWeighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Per Share
Balance, December 31, 2022
1.3 $288.47 
Granted0.7 $296.05 
Vested(0.6)$269.38 
Forfeited(0.1)$290.39 
Balance, December 31, 2023
1.3 $300.39 
A summary of performance-based restricted stock activity for the year ended December 31, 2023 is presented below:
Performance-based restricted stockSharesWeighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Per Share
Balance, December 31, 2022
0.3 $303.80 
Granted0.1 $286.14 
Vested(0.1)$273.81 
Balance, December 31, 2023
0.3 $308.12 
Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Restricted Stock Units, Vested and Expected to Vest
The following table summarizes information relating to the vesting of restricted stock awards:
Year Ended December 31,
202320222021
Fair value of shares vested$164 $180 $194 
Tax benefit realized upon vesting$40 $42 $46 
The following table summarizes information relating to the vesting of the Company’s performance-based restricted stock awards:
Year Ended December 31,
202320222021
Fair value of shares vested$24 $50 $28 
Tax benefit realized upon vesting$3 $7 $7 
v3.24.0.1
INCOME TAXES (Tables)
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]  
Provision for Income Taxes
Components of the Company’s income tax provision are as follows:
Year Ended December 31,
202320222021
Current:
Federal$76 $106 $404 
State and Local67 17 106 
Non-U.S.222 215 249 
Total current365 338 759 
Deferred:
Federal(14)57 (172)
State and Local(4)10 (45)
Non-U.S.(20)(19)(1)
Total deferred(38)48 (218)
Total provision for income taxes$327 $386 $541 
Reconciliation of United States Federal Statutory Tax Rate to Effective Tax Rate on Income before Provision for Income Taxes
A reconciliation of the U.S. federal statutory tax rate to the Company’s ETR on income before provision for income taxes is as follows:
Year Ended December 31,
202320222021
U.S. statutory tax rate21.0 %21.0 %21.0 %
State and local taxes, net of federal tax benefit2.5 %0.8 %1.5 %
Foreign operations
0.4 %(0.2)%(1.5)%
Release of UTP reserves
(5.7)%— %— %
Other(1.3)%0.3 %(1.4)%
ETR
16.9 %21.9 %19.6 %
Income tax paid$344 $488 $932 
Source of Income before Provision for Income Taxes
The source of income before provision for income taxes is as follows:
Year Ended December 31,
202320222021
U.S.$892 $804 $1,563 
Non-U.S.1,043 956 1,192 
Income before provision for income taxes$1,935 $1,760 $2,755 
Components of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities
The components of deferred tax assets and liabilities are as follows:
December 31,
20232022
Deferred tax assets:
Account receivable allowances$9 $9 
Accumulated depreciation and amortization19 15 
Stock-based compensation60 57 
Accrued compensation and benefits53 51 
Capitalized costs25 27 
Operating lease liabilities103 115 
Deferred revenue200 206 
Net operating loss38 36 
Restructuring7 11 
Uncertain tax positions29 68 
Self-insured related reserves6 12 
Other13 14 
Total deferred tax assets562 621 
Deferred tax liabilities:
Accumulated depreciation and amortization of intangible assets and capitalized software(551)(593)
ROU Assets(67)(82)
Capital gains(20)(29)
Self-insured related income(6)(12)
Revenue Accounting Standard - ASC Topic 606(4)(5)
Deferred tax on unremitted foreign earnings(14)(13)
Gain on net investment hedges - OCI(5)(48)
Other(15)(9)
Total deferred tax liabilities(682)(791)
Net deferred tax liabilities(120)(170)
Valuation allowance(24)(21)
Total net deferred tax liabilities$(144)$(191)
Reconciliation of Uncertain Tax Positions
A reconciliation of the beginning and ending amount of UTPs is as follows:
Year Ended December 31,
202320222021
Balance as of January 1$322 $388 $483 
Additions for tax positions related to the current year21 12 102 
Additions for tax positions of prior years3 12 18 
Reductions for tax positions of prior years(17)(27)— 
Settlements with taxing authorities(108)(30)(134)
Lapse of statute of limitations(25)(33)(81)
Balance as of December 31$196 $322 $388 
v3.24.0.1
INDEBTEDNESS (Tables)
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]  
Summary of Total Indebtedness
The following table summarizes total indebtedness:
December 31, 2023
Principal Amount
Fair Value of Interest Rate Swaps(1)
Unamortized (Discount) PremiumUnamortized Debt Issuance CostsCarrying Value
Notes Payable:
5.25% 2014 Senior Notes, due 2044
$600 $(34)$3 $(4)$565 
1.75% 2015 Senior Notes, due 2027
552 — — (1)551 
3.25% 2017 Senior Notes, due 2028
500 (26)(2)(2)470 
4.25% 2018 Senior Notes, due 2029
400 (34)(2)(2)362 
4.875% 2018 Senior Notes, due 2048
400 (36)(6)(3)355 
0.950% 2019 Senior Notes, due 2030
829 — (2)(4)823 
3.75% 2020 Senior Notes, due 2025
700 (16)(1)(1)682 
3.25% 2020 Senior Notes, due 2050
300 — (4)(3)293 
2.55% 2020 Senior Notes, due 2060
300 — (2)(3)295 
2.00% 2021 Senior Notes, due 2031
600 — (6)(4)590 
2.75% 2021 Senior Notes, due 2041
600 — (12)(5)583 
3.10% 2021 Senior Notes, due 2061
500 — (7)(5)488 
3.75% 2022 Senior Notes, due 2052
500 (29)(8)(5)458 
4.25% 2022 Senior Notes, due 2032
500 (8)(2)(4)486 
Total long-term debt$7,281 $(183)$(51)$(46)$7,001 
December 31, 2022
Principal Amount
Fair Value of Interest Rate Swaps (1)
Unamortized (Discount) PremiumUnamortized Debt Issuance CostsCarrying Value
Notes Payable:
4.875% 2013 Senior Notes, due 2024
$500 $— $(1)$(1)$498 
5.25% 2014 Senior Notes, due 2044
600 (42)3 (4)557 
1.75% 2015 Senior Notes due 2027
534 — — (2)532 
3.25% 2017 Senior Notes, due 2028
500 (37)(3)(2)458 
4.25% 2018 Senior Notes, due 2029
400 (42)(2)(2)354 
4.875% 2018 Senior Notes, due 2048
400 (44)(6)(4)346 
0.950% 2019 Senior Notes, due 2030
800 — (2)(4)794 
3.75% 2020 Senior Notes, due 2025
700 (27)(1)(3)669 
3.25% 2020 Senior Notes, due 2050
300 — (4)(3)293 
2.55% 2020 Senior Notes, due 2060
300 — (2)(3)295 
2.00% 2021 Senior Notes, due 2031
600 — (7)(4)589 
2.75% 2021 Senior Notes, due 2041
600 — (13)(5)582 
3.10% 2021 Senior Notes, due 2061
500 — (7)(5)488 
3.75% 2022 Senior Note, due 2052
500 (35)(8)(5)452 
4.25% 2022 Senior Note, due 2032
500 (12)(2)(4)482 
Total long-term debt$7,734 $(239)$(55)$(51)$7,389 
(1)The fair value of interest rate swaps in the tables above represents the cumulative amount of fair value hedging adjustments included in the carrying amount of the hedged debt.
Schedule of Credit Facilities
The following summarizes information relating to the Company's revolving credit facility:
December 31, 2023December 31, 2022
Issue DateCapacityMaturityDrawnUndrawnDrawnUndrawn
2021 Credit FacilityDecember 17, 2021$1,250 December 17, 2026$— $1,250 $— $1,250 
Principal Payments Due on Long-term Borrowings
The repayment schedule for the Company’s borrowings is as follows:
Year Ending December 31,Total
2024$— 
2025700 
2026— 
2027552 
2028500 
Thereafter5,529 
Total$7,281 
Summary of Components of Interest as Presented in Consolidated Statements of Operations
The following table summarizes the components of interest as presented in the consolidated statements of operations and the cash paid for interest:
Year Ended December 31,
202320222021
Expense on borrowings(1)
$(296)$(216)$(185)
Income (expense) on UTPs and other tax related liabilities(2)
8 (13)21 
Net periodic pension costs - interest component (26)(17)(16)
Income63 15 9 
Interest expense, net$(251)$(231)$(171)
Interest paid(3)
$281 $198 $162 
(1) Expense on borrowings includes interest on long-term debt, as well as realized gains/losses related to interest rate swaps and cross currency swaps, which are more fully discussed in Note 7.
(2) The amount for the year ended December 31, 2023 reflects a $22 million reduction of tax-related interest expense primarily related to the resolutions of outstanding tax matters. The amount for the year ended December 31, 2021 includes a $45 million benefit relating to the reversal of tax-related interest accruals pursuant to the resolution of tax matters.
(3) Interest paid includes net settlements on interest rate swaps more fully discussed in Note 7.
Fair Value and Carrying Value of Long-term Debt
The fair value and carrying value of the Company’s debt as of December 31, 2023 and 2022 are as follows:
December 31, 2023December 31, 2022
Carrying AmountEstimated Fair ValueCarrying AmountEstimated Fair Value
Long-term debt$7,001 $6,402 $7,389 $6,564 
v3.24.0.1
CAPITAL STOCK (Tables)
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Stockholders' Equity Note [Abstract]  
Share Repurchase Programs The table below summarizes the Company’s remaining authority under its share repurchase program as of December 31, 2023:
Date AuthorizedAmount AuthorizedRemaining Authority
February 7, 2022$750 $359 
Dividends Paid
The Company’s cash dividends were:
Dividends Per Share
Year ended December 31,
202320222021
DeclaredPaidDeclaredPaidDeclaredPaid
First quarter$0.77 $0.77 $0.70 $0.70 $0.62 $0.62 
Second quarter0.77 0.77 0.70 0.70 0.62 0.62 
Third quarter0.77 0.77 0.70 0.70 0.62 0.62 
Fourth quarter0.77 0.77 0.70 0.70 0.62 0.62 
Total$3.08 $3.08 $2.80 $2.80 $2.48 $2.48 
v3.24.0.1
LEASES (Tables)
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Leases [Abstract]  
Components of Lease Cost
The following table presents the components of the Company’s lease cost:
Year Ended December 31,
202320222021
Operating lease cost$93 $102 $98 
Sublease income(7)(7)(6)
Variable lease cost22 20 19 
Total lease cost$108 $115 $111 
Schedule of Operating Leases Information
The following tables present other information related to the Company’s operating leases:
Year Ended December 31,
202320222021
Cash paid for amounts included in the measurement of operating lease liabilities$119 $118 $113 
ROU Assets obtained in exchange for new operating lease liabilities
$40 $35 $137 
Year Ended December 31,
202320222021
Weighted-average remaining lease term (in years)
4.44.95.6
Weighted-average discount rate applied to operating leases
3.2 %3.1 %3.1 %
Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, Maturity
The following table presents a maturity analysis of the future minimum lease payments included within the Company’s operating lease liabilities at December 31, 2023:
Year Ending December 31,Operating Leases
2024$118 
2025108 
202689 
202771 
202820 
Thereafter36 
Total lease payments (undiscounted)442 
Less: Interest28 
Present value of lease liabilities:$414 
Lease liabilities - current$108 
Lease liabilities - noncurrent$306 
v3.24.0.1
SEGMENT INFORMATION (Tables)
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Segment Reporting [Abstract]  
Financial Information by Segment
The table below shows revenue and Adjusted Operating Income by reportable segment. Adjusted Operating Income is a financial metric utilized by the Company’s chief operating decision maker to assess the profitability of each reportable segment. Refer to Note 3 for further details on the components of the Company’s revenue.
Year Ended December 31,
20232022
MA
MIS
EliminationsConsolidated
MA
MIS
EliminationsConsolidated
Total external revenue$3,056 $2,860 $— $5,916 $2,769 $2,699 $— $5,468 
Intersegment revenue13 186 (199)— 8 174 (182)— 
Revenue3,069 3,046 (199)5,916 2,777 2,873 (182)5,468 
Operating, SG&A2,132 1,386 (199)3,319 1,937 1,385 (182)3,140 
Adjusted Operating Income937 1,660 — 2,597 840 1,488 — 2,328 
Add:
Depreciation and amortization298 75 — 373 250 81 — 331 
Restructuring59 28 — 87 49 65 — 114 
Operating Income$2,137 $1,883 
Year Ended December 31, 2021
MA
MIS
EliminationsConsolidated
Total external revenue$2,406 $3,812 $— $6,218 
Intersegment revenue7 165 (172)— 
Revenue2,413 3,977 (172)6,218 
Operating, SG&A1,786 1,503 (172)3,117 
Adjusted Operating Income627 2,474 — 3,101 
Add:
Depreciation and amortization185 72 — 257 
Restructuring1 (1)— — 
Operating income$2,844 
Restructuring Expenses Included in Consolidated Statements of Operations
Total expenses included in the accompanying consolidated statements of operations relating to the Company's 2022 - 2023 Geolocation Restructuring Program are as follows (table excludes immaterial adjustments relating to the finalization of prior programs in previous years):
Year ended December 31,
Cumulative expense incurred
2022 - 2023 Geolocation Restructuring Program
20232022
Employee Termination Costs (1)
$51 $85 $136 
Real Estate Related Costs (2)
36 27 63 
Other Costs (3)
— 1 1 
Total Restructuring$87 $113 $200 
(1)Amount in the year ended December 31, 2023 includes severance costs, while amount in the year ended December 31, 2022 includes both severance costs and expense related to the modification of equity awards.
(2)For the year ended December 31, 2023, primarily includes ROU Asset impairment charges. For the year ended December 31, 2022, primarily includes ROU Asset and leasehold improvement impairment charges and the non-cash acceleration of amortization of abandoned ROU Assets and leasehold improvements. The fair value of the impaired assets in both periods was determined by utilizing the present value of the estimated future cash flows attributable to the assets. The fair value of those assets subsequent to the impairment for the year ended December 31, 2023 was $4 million and was categorized as Level 3 within the ASC Topic 820 fair value hierarchy. The fair value of those assets subsequent to the impairment for the year ended December 31, 2022 was $0.
(3)Primarily includes professional service fees related to execution of the restructuring program.
The table below shows cumulative restructuring expense incurred through December 31, 2023 by reportable segment.
MA
MIS
Total
2022 - 2023 Geolocation Restructuring Program$108 $92 $200 
Company's Reportable Segment Revenues Disaggregated by Segment and Geographic Region
CONSOLIDATED REVENUE AND LONG-LIVED ASSETS INFORMATION BY GEOGRAPHIC AREA
Year Ended December 31,
202320222021
Revenue:
U.S.$3,098 $2,873 $3,383 
Non-U.S.:
EMEA1,848 1,682 1,885 
Asia-Pacific577 556 603 
Americas393 357 347 
Total Non-U.S.2,818 2,595 2,835 
Total$5,916 $5,468 $6,218 
Long-lived assets at December 31:
U.S.$4,323 $4,408 $4,449 
Non-U.S.4,562 4,489 4,802 
Total$8,885 $8,897 $9,251 
v3.24.0.1
VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS (Tables)
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
SEC Schedule, 12-09, Valuation and Qualifying Accounts [Abstract]  
Summary of Activity for Valuation Allowances Below is a summary of activity:
Year Ended December 31,Balance at Beginning of the YearCharged to costs and expenses
Deductions (1)
Balance at End of the Year
2023
Allowances for credit losses$(40)$(22)$27 $(35)
Deferred tax assets—valuation allowance$(21)$(2)$(1)$(24)
2022
Allowances for credit losses$(32)$(25)$17 $(40)
Deferred tax assets—valuation allowance$(18)$(4)$1 $(21)
2021
Allowances for credit losses$(34)$(13)$15 $(32)
Deferred tax assets—valuation allowance$(15)$(4)$1 $(18)
                
(1)Reflects write-off of uncollectible accounts receivable or expiration of foreign net operating tax losses.
v3.24.0.1
OTHER NON-OPERATING (EXPENSE) INCOME, NET (Tables)
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Other Income and Expenses [Abstract]  
Schedule of Other Nonoperating Income (Expense)
The following table summarizes the components of other non-operating income, net as presented in the consolidated statements of operations:
Year Ended December 31,
202320222021
FX loss(1)
$(30)$(10)$(1)
Purchase price hedge loss(2)
— — (13)
Net periodic pension income - non-service and non-interest cost components
35 24 9 
Income from investments in non-consolidated affiliates(3)
19 17 60 
Gain (loss) on investments
14 (14)13 
Other
11 21 14 
Total$49 $38 $82 
(1)     The amount for the year ended December 31, 2023 includes a $23 million loss recorded pursuant to an immaterial out-of-period adjustment relating to the 2022 fiscal year. The amount for the year ended December 31, 2022 includes FX translation losses of $20 million reclassified to earnings resulting from the Company no longer conducting commercial operations in Russia.
(2)     The amount for the year ended December 31, 2021 reflects a loss on a forward contract to hedge a portion of the RMS British pound-denominated purchase price.
(3)     The amount for the year ended December 31, 2021 includes a $36 million non-cash gain relating to the exchange of Moody’s minority investment in VisibleRisk (accounted for under the equity method) for shares of BitSight, a cybersecurity ratings company.
v3.24.0.1
Description of Business and Basis of Presentation - Additional Information (Detail)
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
segment
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]  
Number of reportable segments 2
v3.24.0.1
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - Additional Information (Detail)
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
reportingUnit
customer
Dec. 31, 2022
customer
Capitalized Contract Cost [Line Items]    
Number of reporting units 4  
Number of customers greater than 10% or more of accounts receivable | customer 0 0
MIS    
Capitalized Contract Cost [Line Items]    
Number of reporting units 2  
MA    
Capitalized Contract Cost [Line Items]    
Number of reporting units 2  
Subscription and Maintenance Contracts | MA | Minimum    
Capitalized Contract Cost [Line Items]    
Revenue, contractual coverage period (years) 3 years  
General customer contract payment condition (days) 30 days  
Subscription and Maintenance Contracts | MA | Maximum    
Capitalized Contract Cost [Line Items]    
Revenue, contractual coverage period (years) 5 years  
General customer contract payment condition (days) 60 days  
v3.24.0.1
Revenues - Revenue by Category (Detail) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Dec. 31, 2021
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue $ 5,916 $ 5,468 $ 6,218
Eliminations      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue (199) (182) (172)
Operating Segments      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue 5,916 5,468 6,218
Eliminations      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue (199) (182) (172)
MA      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue 3,056 2,769 2,406
MA | Operating Segments      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue 3,069 2,777 2,413
MA | Eliminations      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue 13 8 7
MA | Decision Solutions | Operating Segments      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue 1,383 1,245 936
MA | Decision Solutions | DS Banking Product and Service | Operating Segments      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue 521 481 474
MA | Decision Solutions | Insurance | Operating Segments      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue 550 504 245
MA | Decision Solutions | KYC | Operating Segments      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue 312 260 217
MA | Research and Insights | Operating Segments      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue 884 812 772
MA | Data and Information | Operating Segments      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue 789 712 698
MIS      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue 2,860 2,699 3,812
MIS | Operating Segments      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue 3,046 2,873 3,977
MIS | Eliminations      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue 186 174 165
MIS | Corporate finance (CFG) | Operating Segments      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue 1,404 1,269 2,087
MIS | Corporate finance (CFG) | Investment-grade | Operating Segments      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue 335 294 439
MIS | Corporate finance (CFG) | High-yield | Operating Segments      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue 150 108 411
MIS | Corporate finance (CFG) | Bank loans | Operating Segments      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue 292 275 606
MIS | Corporate finance (CFG) | Other accounts | Operating Segments      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue 627 592 631
MIS | Structured finance (SFG) | Operating Segments      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue 405 462 560
MIS | Structured finance (SFG) | Asset-backed securities | Operating Segments      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue 121 116 118
MIS | Structured finance (SFG) | RMBS | Operating Segments      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue 92 106 123
MIS | Structured finance (SFG) | CMBS | Operating Segments      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue 60 98 102
MIS | Structured finance (SFG) | Structured credit | Operating Segments      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue 129 140 215
MIS | Structured finance (SFG) | Other accounts | Operating Segments      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue 3 2 2
MIS | Financial institutions (FIG) | Operating Segments      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue 545 491 602
MIS | Financial institutions (FIG) | Insurance | Operating Segments      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue 123 113 145
MIS | Financial institutions (FIG) | Banking | Operating Segments      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue 378 337 411
MIS | Financial institutions (FIG) | Managed investments | Operating Segments      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue 32 28 36
MIS | Financial institutions (FIG) | Other accounts | Operating Segments      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue 12 13 10
MIS | Public, project and infrastructure finance (PPIF) | Operating Segments      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue 476 431 521
MIS | Public, project and infrastructure finance (PPIF) | Public finance / sovereign | Operating Segments      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue 205 197 244
MIS | Public, project and infrastructure finance (PPIF) | Project and infrastructure | Operating Segments      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue 271 234 277
MIS | Rating Revenue | Operating Segments      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue 2,830 2,653 3,770
MIS | MIS Other | Operating Segments      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue $ 30 $ 46 $ 42
v3.24.0.1
Revenues - Revenues Disaggregated by Line of Business and Geographical Area (Detail) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Dec. 31, 2021
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue $ 5,916 $ 5,468 $ 6,218
Operating Segments      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue 5,916 5,468 6,218
U.S.      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue 3,098 2,873 3,383
Non-U.S.      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue 2,818 2,595 2,835
MA      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue 3,056 2,769 2,406
MA | Operating Segments      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue 3,069 2,777 2,413
MA | U.S.      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue 1,348 1,239 1,039
MA | U.S. | Operating Segments      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue 1,348 1,239 1,039
MA | Non-U.S.      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue 1,708 1,530 1,367
MA | Non-U.S. | Operating Segments      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue 1,708 1,530 1,367
MA | Decision Solutions | Operating Segments      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue 1,383 1,245 936
MA | Decision Solutions | U.S. | Operating Segments      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue 577 519 387
MA | Decision Solutions | Non-U.S. | Operating Segments      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue 806 726 549
MA | Research and Insights | Operating Segments      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue 884 812 772
MA | Research and Insights | U.S. | Operating Segments      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue 490 470 426
MA | Research and Insights | Non-U.S. | Operating Segments      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue 394 342 346
MA | Data and Information | Operating Segments      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue 789 712 698
MA | Data and Information | U.S. | Operating Segments      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue 281 250 226
MA | Data and Information | Non-U.S. | Operating Segments      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue 508 462 472
MIS      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue 2,860 2,699 3,812
MIS | Operating Segments      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue 3,046 2,873 3,977
MIS | U.S.      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue 1,750 1,634 2,344
MIS | U.S. | Operating Segments      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue 1,750 1,634 2,344
MIS | Non-U.S.      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue 1,110 1,065 1,468
MIS | Non-U.S. | Operating Segments      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue 1,110 1,065 1,468
MIS | Rating Revenue | Operating Segments      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue 2,830 2,653 3,770
MIS | Rating Revenue | U.S. | Operating Segments      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue 1,749 1,629 2,341
MIS | Rating Revenue | Non-U.S. | Operating Segments      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue 1,081 1,024 1,429
MIS | Corporate finance (CFG) | Operating Segments      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue 1,404 1,269 2,087
MIS | Corporate finance (CFG) | U.S. | Operating Segments      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue 952 832 1,384
MIS | Corporate finance (CFG) | Non-U.S. | Operating Segments      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue 452 437 703
MIS | Structured finance (SFG) | Operating Segments      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue 405 462 560
MIS | Structured finance (SFG) | U.S. | Operating Segments      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue 252 308 364
MIS | Structured finance (SFG) | Non-U.S. | Operating Segments      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue 153 154 196
MIS | Financial institutions (FIG) | Operating Segments      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue 545 491 602
MIS | Financial institutions (FIG) | U.S. | Operating Segments      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue 253 223 289
MIS | Financial institutions (FIG) | Non-U.S. | Operating Segments      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue 292 268 313
MIS | Public, project and infrastructure finance (PPIF) | Operating Segments      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue 476 431 521
MIS | Public, project and infrastructure finance (PPIF) | U.S. | Operating Segments      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue 292 266 304
MIS | Public, project and infrastructure finance (PPIF) | Non-U.S. | Operating Segments      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue 184 165 217
MIS | MIS Other | Operating Segments      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue 30 46 42
MIS | MIS Other | U.S. | Operating Segments      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue 1 5 3
MIS | MIS Other | Non-U.S. | Operating Segments      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue $ 29 $ 41 $ 39
v3.24.0.1
Revenues - Consolidated Revenue Information by Geographic Area (Detail) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Dec. 31, 2021
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]      
Revenue $ 5,916 $ 5,468 $ 6,218
Operating Segments      
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]      
Revenue 5,916 5,468 6,218
MA      
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]      
Revenue 3,056 2,769 2,406
MA | Operating Segments      
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]      
Revenue 3,069 2,777 2,413
MIS      
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]      
Revenue 2,860 2,699 3,812
MIS | Operating Segments      
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]      
Revenue 3,046 2,873 3,977
U.S.      
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]      
Revenue 3,098 2,873 3,383
U.S. | MA      
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]      
Revenue 1,348 1,239 1,039
U.S. | MA | Operating Segments      
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]      
Revenue 1,348 1,239 1,039
U.S. | MIS      
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]      
Revenue 1,750 1,634 2,344
U.S. | MIS | Operating Segments      
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]      
Revenue 1,750 1,634 2,344
Non-U.S.      
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]      
Revenue 2,818 2,595 2,835
Non-U.S. | MA      
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]      
Revenue 1,708 1,530 1,367
Non-U.S. | MA | Operating Segments      
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]      
Revenue 1,708 1,530 1,367
Non-U.S. | MIS      
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]      
Revenue 1,110 1,065 1,468
Non-U.S. | MIS | Operating Segments      
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]      
Revenue 1,110 1,065 1,468
EMEA      
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]      
Revenue 1,848 1,682 1,885
EMEA | MA | Operating Segments      
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]      
Revenue 1,169 1,034 955
EMEA | MIS | Operating Segments      
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]      
Revenue 679 648 930
Asia-Pacific      
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]      
Revenue 577 556 603
Asia-Pacific | MA | Operating Segments      
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]      
Revenue 306 285 246
Asia-Pacific | MIS | Operating Segments      
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]      
Revenue 271 271 357
Americas      
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]      
Revenue 393 357 347
Americas | MA | Operating Segments      
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]      
Revenue 233 211 166
Americas | MIS | Operating Segments      
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]      
Revenue $ 160 $ 146 $ 181
v3.24.0.1
Revenues - Transaction and Relationship Revenue (Detail) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Dec. 31, 2021
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue $ 5,916 $ 5,468 $ 6,218
Percentage of Revenues 100.00% 100.00% 100.00%
Operating Segments      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue $ 5,916 $ 5,468 $ 6,218
MA      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue 3,056 2,769 2,406
MA | Operating Segments      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue $ 3,069 $ 2,777 $ 2,413
Percentage of Revenues 100.00% 100.00% 100.00%
MIS      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue $ 2,860 $ 2,699 $ 3,812
MIS | Operating Segments      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue $ 3,046 $ 2,873 $ 3,977
Percentage of Revenues 100.00% 100.00% 100.00%
Corporate finance (CFG) | MIS | Operating Segments      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue $ 1,404 $ 1,269 $ 2,087
Percentage of Revenues 100.00% 100.00% 100.00%
Structured finance (SFG) | MIS | Operating Segments      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue $ 405 $ 462 $ 560
Percentage of Revenues 100.00% 100.00% 100.00%
Financial institutions (FIG) | MIS | Operating Segments      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue $ 545 $ 491 $ 602
Percentage of Revenues 100.00% 100.00% 100.00%
Public, project and infrastructure finance (PPIF) | MIS | Operating Segments      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue $ 476 $ 431 $ 521
Percentage of Revenues 100.00% 100.00% 100.00%
MIS Other | MIS | Operating Segments      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue $ 30 $ 46 $ 42
Percentage of Revenues 100.00% 100.00% 100.00%
Decision Solutions | MA | Operating Segments      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue $ 1,383 $ 1,245 $ 936
Percentage of Revenues 100.00% 100.00% 100.00%
Research and Insights | MA | Operating Segments      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue $ 884 $ 812 $ 772
Percentage of Revenues 100.00% 100.00% 100.00%
Data and Information | MA | Operating Segments      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue $ 789 $ 712 $ 698
Percentage of Revenues 100.00% 100.00% 100.00%
Transaction Revenue      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue $ 1,826 $ 1,682 $ 2,810
Percentage of Revenues 31.00% 31.00% 45.00%
Transaction Revenue | MA      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue $ 188 $ 170 $ 170
Transaction Revenue | MA | Operating Segments      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Percentage of Revenues 6.00% 6.00% 7.00%
Transaction Revenue | MIS      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue $ 1,638 $ 1,512 $ 2,640
Transaction Revenue | MIS | Operating Segments      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Percentage of Revenues 57.00% 56.00% 69.00%
Transaction Revenue | Corporate finance (CFG) | MIS | Operating Segments      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue $ 887 $ 772 $ 1,600
Percentage of Revenues 63.00% 61.00% 77.00%
Transaction Revenue | Structured finance (SFG) | MIS | Operating Segments      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue $ 190 $ 262 $ 362
Percentage of Revenues 47.00% 57.00% 65.00%
Transaction Revenue | Financial institutions (FIG) | MIS | Operating Segments      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue $ 254 $ 211 $ 320
Percentage of Revenues 47.00% 43.00% 53.00%
Transaction Revenue | Public, project and infrastructure finance (PPIF) | MIS | Operating Segments      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue $ 301 $ 263 $ 354
Percentage of Revenues 63.00% 61.00% 68.00%
Transaction Revenue | MIS Other | MIS | Operating Segments      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue $ 6 $ 4 $ 4
Percentage of Revenues 20.00% 9.00% 10.00%
Transaction Revenue | Decision Solutions | MA | Operating Segments      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue $ 169 $ 153 $ 147
Percentage of Revenues 12.00% 12.00% 16.00%
Transaction Revenue | Research and Insights | MA | Operating Segments      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue $ 16 $ 17 $ 19
Percentage of Revenues 2.00% 2.00% 2.00%
Transaction Revenue | Data and Information | MA | Operating Segments      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue $ 3 $ 0 $ 4
Percentage of Revenues 0.00% 0.00% 1.00%
Relationship Revenue      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue $ 4,090 $ 3,786 $ 3,408
Percentage of Revenues 69.00% 69.00% 55.00%
Relationship Revenue | MA      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue $ 2,868 $ 2,599 $ 2,236
Relationship Revenue | MA | Operating Segments      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Percentage of Revenues 94.00% 94.00% 93.00%
Relationship Revenue | MIS      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue $ 1,222 $ 1,187 $ 1,172
Relationship Revenue | MIS | Operating Segments      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Percentage of Revenues 43.00% 44.00% 31.00%
Relationship Revenue | Corporate finance (CFG) | MIS | Operating Segments      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue $ 517 $ 497 $ 487
Percentage of Revenues 37.00% 39.00% 23.00%
Relationship Revenue | Structured finance (SFG) | MIS | Operating Segments      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue $ 215 $ 200 $ 198
Percentage of Revenues 53.00% 43.00% 35.00%
Relationship Revenue | Financial institutions (FIG) | MIS | Operating Segments      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue $ 291 $ 280 $ 282
Percentage of Revenues 53.00% 57.00% 47.00%
Relationship Revenue | Public, project and infrastructure finance (PPIF) | MIS | Operating Segments      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue $ 175 $ 168 $ 167
Percentage of Revenues 37.00% 39.00% 32.00%
Relationship Revenue | MIS Other | MIS | Operating Segments      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue $ 24 $ 42 $ 38
Percentage of Revenues 80.00% 91.00% 90.00%
Relationship Revenue | Decision Solutions | MA | Operating Segments      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue $ 1,214 $ 1,092 $ 789
Percentage of Revenues 88.00% 88.00% 84.00%
Relationship Revenue | Research and Insights | MA | Operating Segments      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue $ 868 $ 795 $ 753
Percentage of Revenues 98.00% 98.00% 98.00%
Relationship Revenue | Data and Information | MA | Operating Segments      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue $ 786 $ 712 $ 694
Percentage of Revenues 100.00% 100.00% 99.00%
v3.24.0.1
Revenues - Revenue Recognition Timing (Detail) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Dec. 31, 2021
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue recognized $ 5,916 $ 5,468 $ 6,218
Operating Segments      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue recognized 5,916 5,468 6,218
Revenue recognized at a point in time      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue recognized 1,740 1,609 2,741
Revenue recognized over time      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue recognized 4,176 3,859 3,477
MA      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue recognized 3,056 2,769 2,406
MA | Operating Segments      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue recognized 3,069 2,777 2,413
MA | Revenue recognized at a point in time | Operating Segments      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue recognized 102 97 101
MA | Revenue recognized over time | Operating Segments      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue recognized 2,954 2,672 2,305
MIS      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue recognized 2,860 2,699 3,812
MIS | Operating Segments      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue recognized 3,046 2,873 3,977
MIS | Revenue recognized at a point in time | Operating Segments      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue recognized 1,638 1,512 2,640
MIS | Revenue recognized over time | Operating Segments      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Revenue recognized $ 1,222 $ 1,187 $ 1,172
v3.24.0.1
Revenues - Unbilled Receivables (Detail) - Accounts Receivable - USD ($)
$ in Millions
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
MA    
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]    
Unbilled Receivables $ 119 $ 148
MIS    
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]    
Unbilled Receivables $ 415 $ 385
v3.24.0.1
Revenues - Schedule of Changes in the Deferred Revenue Balances (Detail) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Dec. 31, 2021
Change in Contract with Customer, Liability [Abstract]      
Beginning Balance $ 1,333 $ 1,335 $ 1,187
Revenue recognized that was included in the deferred revenue balance at the beginning of the period (1,191) (1,206) (1,030)
Increases due to amounts billable excluding amounts recognized as revenue during the period 1,215 1,220 1,091
Increases due to acquisitions during the period   1 94
Effect of exchange rate changes 24 (17) (7)
Total changes in deferred revenue 48 (2) 148
Ending Balance 1,381 1,333 1,335
Deferred revenue - current 1,316 1,258 1,249
Deferred revenue - noncurrent 65 75 86
MA      
Change in Contract with Customer, Liability [Abstract]      
Beginning Balance 1,055 1,039 874
Revenue recognized that was included in the deferred revenue balance at the beginning of the period (980) (996) (810)
Increases due to amounts billable excluding amounts recognized as revenue during the period 1,015 1,018 884
Increases due to acquisitions during the period   1 94
Effect of exchange rate changes 21 (7) (3)
Total changes in deferred revenue 56 16 165
Ending Balance 1,111 1,055 1,039
Deferred revenue - current 1,109 1,053 1,035
Deferred revenue - noncurrent 2 2 4
MIS      
Change in Contract with Customer, Liability [Abstract]      
Beginning Balance 278 296 313
Revenue recognized that was included in the deferred revenue balance at the beginning of the period (211) (210) (220)
Increases due to amounts billable excluding amounts recognized as revenue during the period 200 202 207
Increases due to acquisitions during the period   0 0
Effect of exchange rate changes 3 (10) (4)
Total changes in deferred revenue (8) (18) (17)
Ending Balance 270 278 296
Deferred revenue - current 207 205 214
Deferred revenue - noncurrent $ 63 $ 73 $ 82
v3.24.0.1
Revenues - Expected Recognition Period for Remaining Performance Obligations (Detail)
$ in Millions
Dec. 31, 2023
USD ($)
MA  
Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Expected Timing of Satisfaction [Line Items]  
Revenue, remaining performance obligation, amount $ 3,600
MA | Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Expected Timing of Satisfaction, Start Date [Axis]: 2024-01-01  
Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Expected Timing of Satisfaction [Line Items]  
Revenue, remaining performance obligation, percentage 60.00%
Revenue, remaining performance obligation, period 1 year
MA | Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Expected Timing of Satisfaction, Start Date [Axis]: 2025-01-01  
Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Expected Timing of Satisfaction [Line Items]  
Revenue, remaining performance obligation, percentage 25.00%
MA | Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Expected Timing of Satisfaction, Start Date [Axis]: 2025-01-01 | Minimum  
Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Expected Timing of Satisfaction [Line Items]  
Revenue, remaining performance obligation, period 1 year
MA | Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Expected Timing of Satisfaction, Start Date [Axis]: 2025-01-01 | Maximum  
Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Expected Timing of Satisfaction [Line Items]  
Revenue, remaining performance obligation, period 2 years
MIS  
Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Expected Timing of Satisfaction [Line Items]  
Revenue, remaining performance obligation, amount $ 91
MIS | Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Expected Timing of Satisfaction, Start Date [Axis]: 2024-01-01  
Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Expected Timing of Satisfaction [Line Items]  
Revenue, remaining performance obligation, percentage 25.00%
Revenue, remaining performance obligation, period 1 year
MIS | Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Expected Timing of Satisfaction, Start Date [Axis]: 2025-01-01  
Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Expected Timing of Satisfaction [Line Items]  
Revenue, remaining performance obligation, percentage 50.00%
v3.24.0.1
Revenues - Costs to Fulfill a Contract with a Customer (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Dec. 31, 2021
Capitalized Costs To Fulfill Sales Contracts | Selling, General and Administrative Expenses      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Deferred cost balance $ 44 $ 45  
Capitalized Costs To Fulfill Sales Contracts | Operating Expense      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Capitalized contract cost, amortization 114 123 $ 124
MA | Capitalized Costs To Obtain Sales Contracts      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Deferred cost balance 268 232  
MA | Capitalized Costs To Obtain Sales Contracts | Selling, General and Administrative Expenses      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Capitalized contract cost, amortization 102 80 60
MA | Capitalized Costs To Fulfill Sales Contracts | Selling, General and Administrative Expenses      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Deferred cost balance 35 33  
MA | Royalty Cost | Operating Expense      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Capitalized contract cost, amortization 70 69 76
MIS | Capitalized Costs To Fulfill Sales Contracts | Selling, General and Administrative Expenses      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Deferred cost balance 9 12  
MIS | Capitalization of Work-In-Process for In-Progress Ratings | Operating Expense      
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]      
Capitalized contract cost, amortization $ 44 $ 54 $ 48
v3.24.0.1
Reconciliation of Weighted Average Shares Outstanding - Reconciliation of Basic to Diluted Shares Outstanding (Detail) - shares
shares in Millions
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Dec. 31, 2021
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]      
Basic (in shares) 183.2 183.9 186.4
Dilutive effect of shares issuable under stock-based compensation plans (in shares) 0.8 0.8 1.5
Diluted (in shares) 184.0 184.7 187.9
Anti-dilutive options to purchase common shares and restricted stock as well as contingently issuable restricted stock which are excluded from the table above (in shares) 0.5 0.5 0.2
v3.24.0.1
Accelerated Share Repurchase Program - Additional Information (Details) - USD ($)
$ / shares in Units, shares in Millions
 1 Months Ended 2 Months Ended
Mar. 01, 2022
Apr. 30, 2022
Apr. 30, 2022
Accelerated Share Repurchases [Line Items]      
Accelerated share repurchases, final price paid per share (in usd per share)     $ 324.20
Accelerated Share Repurchases      
Accelerated Share Repurchases [Line Items]      
Treasury shares repurchased (in shares)     1.5
March 1, 2022      
Accelerated Share Repurchases [Line Items]      
Accelerated share repurchases, total Value committed to repurchase $ 500,000,000    
Accelerated share repurchases payment $ 500,000,000    
March 1, 2022 | Accelerated Share Repurchases      
Accelerated Share Repurchases [Line Items]      
Treasury shares repurchased (in shares) 1.2    
April 26, 2019 | Accelerated Share Repurchases      
Accelerated Share Repurchases [Line Items]      
Treasury shares repurchased (in shares)   0.3  
v3.24.0.1
Cash Equivalents and Investments (Detail) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Cash and Cash Equivalents [Line Items]    
Cash and cash equivalents $ 2,130 $ 1,769
Short-term investments 63 90
Other assets 1,138 1,092
Certificates of deposit and money market deposit accounts    
Cash and Cash Equivalents [Line Items]    
Cost 1,178 914
Gross Unrealized Gains 0 0
Fair Value 1,178 914
Cash and cash equivalents 1,112 808
Short-term investments 63 90
Other assets 3 16
Mutual funds    
Cash and Cash Equivalents [Line Items]    
Cost 91 71
Gross Unrealized Gains 6 0
Fair Value 97 71
Cash and cash equivalents 0 0
Short-term investments 0 0
Other assets $ 97 $ 71
v3.24.0.1
Cash Equivalents and Investments - Footnote (Detail) - Certificates of deposit and money market deposit accounts
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Short-term Investments | Minimum    
Cash and Cash Equivalents [Line Items]    
Securities maturity period 1 month 1 month
Short-term Investments | Maximum    
Cash and Cash Equivalents [Line Items]    
Securities maturity period 12 months 12 months
Other assets    
Cash and Cash Equivalents [Line Items]    
Securities maturity period 14 months  
Other assets | Minimum    
Cash and Cash Equivalents [Line Items]    
Securities maturity period   13 months
Other assets | Maximum    
Cash and Cash Equivalents [Line Items]    
Securities maturity period   24 months
Cash and cash equivalent | Maximum    
Cash and Cash Equivalents [Line Items]    
Securities maturity period 90 days  
v3.24.0.1
Cash Equivalents and Investments - Narrative (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Cash and Cash Equivalents [Abstract]    
Company owned life insurance (at contract value) $ 47 $ 40
v3.24.0.1
Derivative Instruments And Hedging Activities - Schedule of Interest Rate Swap (Details) - Fair Value Hedging - Interest Rate Swap - USD ($)
$ in Millions
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Derivative [Line Items]    
Notional Amount $ 2,550 $ 2,550
2017 Senior Notes due 2028    
Derivative [Line Items]    
Notional Amount $ 500 $ 500
Floating  Interest Rate SOFR 3-month LIBOR
2020 Senior Notes due 2025    
Derivative [Line Items]    
Notional Amount $ 300 $ 300
Floating  Interest Rate SOFR 6-month LIBOR
2014 Senior Notes due 2044    
Derivative [Line Items]    
Notional Amount $ 300 $ 300
Floating  Interest Rate SOFR 3-month LIBOR
2018 Senior Notes due 2048    
Derivative [Line Items]    
Notional Amount $ 300 $ 300
Floating  Interest Rate SOFR 3-month LIBOR
2018 Senior Notes due 2029    
Derivative [Line Items]    
Notional Amount $ 400 $ 400
Floating  Interest Rate SOFR SOFR
2022 Senior Notes due 2052    
Derivative [Line Items]    
Notional Amount $ 500 $ 500
Floating  Interest Rate SOFR SOFR
2022 Senior Notes due 2032    
Derivative [Line Items]    
Notional Amount $ 250 $ 250
Floating  Interest Rate SOFR SOFR
v3.24.0.1
Derivative Instruments And Hedging Activities - Summary of Net Gain (Loss) on Interest Rate Swaps Designated in Fair Value Hedge (Detail) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Dec. 31, 2021
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]      
Interest expense, net $ (251) $ (231) $ (171)
Derivative, gain (loss), statement of income or comprehensive income Interest expense, net Interest expense, net Interest expense, net
Designated as Hedging Instrument | Interest Rate Swap      
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]      
Fair value changes on interest rate swaps $ 56 $ (228) $ (60)
Fair value changes on hedged debt (56) 228 60
Designated as Hedging Instrument | Interest Rate Swap | Fair Value hedge Net Interest Settlements and Accruals      
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]      
Net interest settlements and accruals on interest rate swaps $ (89) $ (8) $ 23
v3.24.0.1
Derivative Instruments And Hedging Activities - Additional Information (Detail)
$ in Millions
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
USD ($)
Dec. 31, 2022
USD ($)
Dec. 31, 2021
USD ($)
Dec. 31, 2023
EUR (€)
Derivative [Line Items]        
Accumulated other comprehensive loss $ 567 $ 643    
Foreign exchange forwards amount of gain (loss) recognized in income 0 0 $ (13)  
Designated as Hedging Instrument        
Derivative [Line Items]        
Accumulated other comprehensive loss (9) (140)    
Not Designated as Accounting Hedges | Total Return Swap        
Derivative [Line Items]        
Notional Amount 58      
Net Investment Hedging | Designated as Hedging Instrument        
Derivative [Line Items]        
Accumulated other comprehensive loss (53) (185)    
Net Investment Hedging | Designated as Hedging Instrument | Cross currency swaps        
Derivative [Line Items]        
Notional Amount 3,050     € 2,903,000,000
Accumulated other comprehensive loss (21) (118)    
Cash Flow Hedging | Designated as Hedging Instrument        
Derivative [Line Items]        
Accumulated other comprehensive loss 44 45    
Cash Flow Hedging | Designated as Hedging Instrument | Cross currency swaps        
Derivative [Line Items]        
Accumulated other comprehensive loss $ (1) $ (2)    
2015 Senior Notes, due 2027 | Net Investment Hedging | Designated as Hedging Instrument | Cross currency swaps        
Derivative [Line Items]        
Notional Amount | €       500,000,000
0.950% 2019 Senior Note, due 2030 | Net Investment Hedging | Designated as Hedging Instrument | Cross currency swaps        
Derivative [Line Items]        
Notional Amount | €       € 750,000,000
v3.24.0.1
Derivative Instruments And Hedging Activities - Summary of Notional Amounts of Outstanding Cross Currency Swap (Detail) - Cross currency swaps - Net Investment Hedging
€ in Millions, $ in Millions
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
USD ($)
Dec. 31, 2022
USD ($)
Dec. 31, 2023
EUR (€)
Dec. 31, 2022
EUR (€)
Currency Paid        
Derivative [Line Items]        
Notional Amount | €     € 2,903 € 2,903
Currency Paid | Fixed Pay Weighted Average Interest Rate        
Derivative [Line Items]        
Notional Amount | €     € 765 € 765
Weighted Average Interest Rate 3.67% 3.67% 3.67% 3.67%
Currency Paid | 3-month EURIBOR        
Derivative [Line Items]        
Notional Amount | €       € 450
Floating  Interest Rate   Based on 3-month EURIBOR    
Currency Paid | Euro Short-Term Rate        
Derivative [Line Items]        
Notional Amount | €     € 2,138 € 1,688
Floating  Interest Rate Based on ESTR Based on ESTR    
Currency Received        
Derivative [Line Items]        
Notional Amount | $ $ 3,050 $ 3,050    
Currency Received | Fixed Received Weighted Average Interest Rate        
Derivative [Line Items]        
Notional Amount | $ $ 800 $ 800    
Weighted Average Interest Rate 5.25% 5.25% 5.25% 5.25%
Currency Received | 3-month U.S. LIBOR        
Derivative [Line Items]        
Notional Amount | $   $ 500    
Floating  Interest Rate   Based on 3-month USD LIBOR    
Currency Received | Secured Overnight Financing Rate (SOFR) Overnight Index Swap Rate        
Derivative [Line Items]        
Notional Amount | $ $ 2,250 $ 1,750    
Floating  Interest Rate Based on SOFR Based on SOFR    
v3.24.0.1
Derivative Instruments And Hedging Activities - Schedule of Notional Amount of Net Investment Hedges (Detail) - Dec. 31, 2023 - Designated as Hedging Instrument - Cross currency swaps
€ in Millions, $ in Millions
USD ($)
EUR (€)
2026    
Derivative [Line Items]    
Notional Amount $ 500 € 450
2027    
Derivative [Line Items]    
Notional Amount 550 531
2028    
Derivative [Line Items]    
Notional Amount 600 588
2029    
Derivative [Line Items]    
Notional Amount 400 373
2031    
Derivative [Line Items]    
Notional Amount 500 481
2032    
Derivative [Line Items]    
Notional Amount 500 480
Net Investment Hedging    
Derivative [Line Items]    
Notional Amount $ 3,050 € 2,903
v3.24.0.1
Derivative Instruments And Hedging Activities - Gains (Losses) Recognized in AOCI and Reclassified from AOCI on Derivatives (Detail) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Dec. 31, 2021
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]      
Total, amount of gain/loss) recognized in AOCI on derivative, net of tax $ (132) $ 164 $ 242
Net investment hedging relationships, amount of gain/(loss) reclassified from AOCI into income, net of tax 0 0 1
Cash flow hedging relationships, amount of gain/(loss) reclassified from AOCI into income, net of tax (1) (2) (2)
Total, amount of gain/loss) reclassified from AOCI into income, net of tax (1) (2) (1)
Gain/(Loss) Recognized in Income on Derivative (Amount Excluded from Effectiveness Testing) 54 56 35
Net Investment Hedging      
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]      
Net investment hedging relationships, amount of gain/(loss) recognized in AOCI on derivative, net of tax (132) 164 242
Net investment hedging relationships, amount of gain/(loss) reclassified from AOCI into income, net of tax 0 0 1
Gain/(Loss) Recognized in Income on Derivative (Amount Excluded from Effectiveness Testing) 54 56 35
Cash Flow Hedging      
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]      
Cash flow hedging relationships, amount of gain/(loss) recognized in AOCI on derivative, net of tax 0 0 0
Cash flow hedging relationships, amount of gain/(loss) reclassified from AOCI into income, net of tax (1) (2) (2)
Gain/(Loss) Recognized in Income on Derivative (Amount Excluded from Effectiveness Testing) 0 0 0
FX forwards | Net Investment Hedging      
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]      
Net investment hedging relationships, amount of gain/(loss) recognized in AOCI on derivative, net of tax 0 0 18
Net investment hedging relationships, amount of gain/(loss) reclassified from AOCI into income, net of tax 0 0 1
Gain/(Loss) Recognized in Income on Derivative (Amount Excluded from Effectiveness Testing) 0 0 0
Cross currency swaps | Net Investment Hedging      
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]      
Net investment hedging relationships, amount of gain/(loss) recognized in AOCI on derivative, net of tax (97) 99 143
Net investment hedging relationships, amount of gain/(loss) reclassified from AOCI into income, net of tax 0 0 0
Gain/(Loss) Recognized in Income on Derivative (Amount Excluded from Effectiveness Testing) 54 56 35
Cross currency swaps | Cash Flow Hedging      
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]      
Cash flow hedging relationships, amount of gain/(loss) recognized in AOCI on derivative, net of tax 0 0 0
Cash flow hedging relationships, amount of gain/(loss) reclassified from AOCI into income, net of tax 1 0 0
Gain/(Loss) Recognized in Income on Derivative (Amount Excluded from Effectiveness Testing) 0 0 0
Long-term debt | Net Investment Hedging      
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]      
Net investment hedging relationships, amount of gain/(loss) recognized in AOCI on derivative, net of tax (35) 65 81
Net investment hedging relationships, amount of gain/(loss) reclassified from AOCI into income, net of tax 0 0 0
Gain/(Loss) Recognized in Income on Derivative (Amount Excluded from Effectiveness Testing) 0 0 0
Interest rate contract | Cash Flow Hedging      
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]      
Cash flow hedging relationships, amount of gain/(loss) recognized in AOCI on derivative, net of tax 0 0 0
Cash flow hedging relationships, amount of gain/(loss) reclassified from AOCI into income, net of tax (2) (2) (2)
Gain/(Loss) Recognized in Income on Derivative (Amount Excluded from Effectiveness Testing) $ 0 $ 0 $ 0
v3.24.0.1
Derivative Instruments And Hedging Activities - Cumulative Amount of Unrecognized Hedge Losses Recorded in AOCI (Detail) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Derivative [Line Items]    
Cumulative Gains/(Losses), net of tax $ (567) $ (643)
Designated as Hedging Instrument    
Derivative [Line Items]    
Cumulative Gains/(Losses), net of tax 9 140
Net Investment Hedging | Designated as Hedging Instrument    
Derivative [Line Items]    
Cumulative Gains/(Losses), net of tax 53 185
Net Investment Hedging | Cross currency swaps | Designated as Hedging Instrument    
Derivative [Line Items]    
Cumulative Gains/(Losses), net of tax 21 118
Net Investment Hedging | FX forwards | Designated as Hedging Instrument    
Derivative [Line Items]    
Cumulative Gains/(Losses), net of tax 29 29
Net Investment Hedging | Long-term debt | Designated as Hedging Instrument    
Derivative [Line Items]    
Cumulative Gains/(Losses), net of tax 3 38
Cash Flow Hedging | Designated as Hedging Instrument    
Derivative [Line Items]    
Cumulative Gains/(Losses), net of tax (44) (45)
Cash Flow Hedging | Cross currency swaps | Designated as Hedging Instrument    
Derivative [Line Items]    
Cumulative Gains/(Losses), net of tax 1 2
Cash Flow Hedging | Interest rate contract | Designated as Hedging Instrument    
Derivative [Line Items]    
Cumulative Gains/(Losses), net of tax $ (45) $ (47)
v3.24.0.1
Derivative Instruments And Hedging Activities - Summary of Notional Amounts of Outstanding Foreign Exchange Forwards (Detail) - Not Designated as Accounting Hedges
€ in Millions, ₨ in Millions, ¥ in Millions, £ in Millions, $ in Millions, $ in Millions, $ in Millions, $ in Millions
Dec. 31, 2023
USD ($)
Dec. 31, 2023
EUR (€)
Dec. 31, 2023
GBP (£)
Dec. 31, 2023
JPY (¥)
Dec. 31, 2023
CAD ($)
Dec. 31, 2023
SGD ($)
Dec. 31, 2023
INR (₨)
Dec. 31, 2023
AUD ($)
Dec. 31, 2022
USD ($)
Dec. 31, 2022
EUR (€)
Dec. 31, 2022
GBP (£)
Dec. 31, 2022
JPY (¥)
Dec. 31, 2022
CAD ($)
Dec. 31, 2022
SGD ($)
Dec. 31, 2022
INR (₨)
Dec. 31, 2022
AUD ($)
Contracts to sell USD for GBP                                
Derivative [Line Items]                                
Notional Amount $ 513   £ 407           $ 170   £ 146          
Contracts to sell USD for Japanese yen                                
Derivative [Line Items]                                
Notional Amount 14     ¥ 2,000         24     ¥ 3,500        
Contracts to sell USD for Canadian dollars                                
Derivative [Line Items]                                
Notional Amount 147       $ 200       87       $ 120      
Contracts to sell USD for Singapore dollars                                
Derivative [Line Items]                                
Notional Amount 50         $ 67     50         $ 70    
Contracts to sell USD for euros                                
Derivative [Line Items]                                
Notional Amount 60 € 55             116 € 115            
Contracts to sell USD for Indian rupee                                
Derivative [Line Items]                                
Notional Amount 23           ₨ 1,900   19           ₨ 1,600  
Contracts to sell euros for USD                                
Derivative [Line Items]                                
Notional Amount 0 € 0             89 € 85            
Contracts to sell USD for AUD                                
Derivative [Line Items]                                
Notional Amount 5             $ 8 0             $ 0
Foreign Currency Forward Contracts To Sell Canadian Dollars for US Dollars                                
Derivative [Line Items]                                
Notional Amount $ 19       $ 25       $ 0       $ 0      
v3.24.0.1
Derivative Instruments And Hedging Activities - Summary of Net Gain (Loss) on Foreign Exchange Forwards Not Designated as Hedging Instruments (Detail)
£ in Millions, $ in Millions
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
USD ($)
Dec. 31, 2022
USD ($)
Dec. 31, 2021
USD ($)
Dec. 31, 2021
GBP (£)
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]        
Foreign exchange forwards amount of gain (loss) recognized in income $ 0 $ 0 $ (13)  
FX forwards | RMS | Not Designated as Accounting Hedges        
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]        
Notional Amount     1,675 £ 1,200
FX forwards | Other Nonoperating Income (Expense)        
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]        
Foreign exchange forwards amount of gain (loss) recognized in income 15 (72) (27)  
FX forwards | Other Nonoperating Income (Expense) | RMS        
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]        
Foreign exchange forwards amount of gain (loss) recognized in income 0 0 (13)  
FX forwards | Other Nonoperating Income (Expense) | RMS | Not Designated as Accounting Hedges        
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]        
Foreign exchange forwards amount of gain (loss) recognized in income     (13)  
Total Return Swap | Not Designated as Accounting Hedges        
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]        
Notional Amount 58      
Total Return Swap | Operating Expense        
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]        
Foreign exchange forwards amount of gain (loss) recognized in income 2 0 0  
Total Return Swap | Selling, General and Administrative Expenses        
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]        
Foreign exchange forwards amount of gain (loss) recognized in income $ 1 $ 0 $ 0  
v3.24.0.1
Derivative Instruments And Hedging Activities - Fair Value of Derivative Instruments (Detail) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]    
Assets $ 16 $ 46
Liabilities $ 1,747 $ 1,653
Derivative asset, statement of financial position Other current assets, Other assets Other current assets, Other assets
Derivative liability, statement of financial position Accounts payable and accrued liabilities, Other liabilities Accounts payable and accrued liabilities, Other liabilities
Designated as Hedging Instrument    
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]    
Liabilities $ 366 $ 317
Designated as Hedging Instrument | Long-term debt | Net Investment Hedging    
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]    
Liabilities 1,381 1,334
Designated as Hedging Instrument | Cross currency swaps | Other assets | Net Investment Hedging    
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]    
Assets 3 27
Designated as Hedging Instrument | Cross currency swaps | Other liabilities | Net Investment Hedging    
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]    
Liabilities 183 78
Designated as Hedging Instrument | Interest Rate Swap | Other liabilities | Fair Value Hedging    
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]    
Liabilities 183 239
Not Designated as Accounting Hedges | FX forwards | Other current assets    
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]    
Assets 13 19
Not Designated as Accounting Hedges | FX forwards | Accounts payable and accrued liabilities    
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]    
Liabilities $ 0 $ 2
v3.24.0.1
Property and Equipment, Net (Detail) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]    
Total property and equipment, at cost $ 1,875 $ 1,625
Less: accumulated depreciation and amortization (1,272) (1,123)
Total property and equipment, net 603 502
Office and Computer Equipment    
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]    
Total property and equipment, at cost $ 354 339
Office and Computer Equipment | Minimum    
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]    
Property plant and equipment useful life 3 years  
Office and Computer Equipment | Maximum    
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]    
Property plant and equipment useful life 10 years  
Office Furniture and Fixtures    
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]    
Total property and equipment, at cost $ 57 54
Office Furniture and Fixtures | Minimum    
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]    
Property plant and equipment useful life 3 years  
Office Furniture and Fixtures | Maximum    
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]    
Property plant and equipment useful life 10 years  
Internal-use Computer Software    
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]    
Total property and equipment, at cost $ 1,232 995
Internal-use Computer Software | Minimum    
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]    
Property plant and equipment useful life 1 year  
Internal-use Computer Software | Maximum    
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]    
Property plant and equipment useful life 10 years  
Leasehold Improvements and Building    
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]    
Total property and equipment, at cost $ 232 $ 237
Leasehold Improvements and Building | Minimum    
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]    
Property plant and equipment useful life 1 year  
Leasehold Improvements and Building | Maximum    
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]    
Property plant and equipment useful life 20 years  
v3.24.0.1
Property and Equipment, Net - Additional Information (Detail) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Dec. 31, 2021
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]      
Depreciation and amortization expense related to property and equipment $ 175 $ 131 $ 99
Internal-use Computer Software      
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]      
Depreciation and amortization expense related to property and equipment $ 121 $ 79 $ 54
Internal-use Computer Software | Weighted Average      
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]      
Property plant and equipment useful life 4 years 6 months    
v3.24.0.1
Acquisition - Narrative (Detail) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
 12 Months Ended
Sep. 15, 2021
Dec. 31, 2021
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Business Acquisition [Line Items]        
Goodwill   $ 5,999 $ 5,956 $ 5,839
MA        
Business Acquisition [Line Items]        
Goodwill   5,603 5,669 5,462
MIS        
Business Acquisition [Line Items]        
Goodwill   396 $ 287 $ 377
RMS        
Business Acquisition [Line Items]        
Business acquisition interests acquired 100.00%      
Goodwill $ 1,357      
Indemnification assets related to acquisitions 95      
Cash and equivalents 55      
Receivables 38      
Cash paid at closing 1,922      
Consideration transferred 1,927      
RMS | Selling, General and Administrative Expenses        
Business Acquisition [Line Items]        
Transaction costs 22      
RMS | MA        
Business Acquisition [Line Items]        
Goodwill 1,267      
RMS | MIS        
Business Acquisition [Line Items]        
Goodwill $ 90      
RMS | Fair Value Adjustment to Deferred Revenue        
Business Acquisition [Line Items]        
Revenues   $ 18    
v3.24.0.1
Acquisition - Total Consideration Relating to Acquisition (Detail) - RMS
$ in Millions
Sep. 15, 2021
USD ($)
Business Acquisition [Line Items]  
Cash paid at closing $ 1,922
Replacement equity compensation awards 5
Total consideration $ 1,927
v3.24.0.1
Acquisition - Purchase Price Allocation (Detail) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
Sep. 15, 2021
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Dec. 31, 2021
Business Acquisition [Line Items]        
Goodwill   $ 5,956 $ 5,839 $ 5,999
RMS        
Business Acquisition [Line Items]        
Cash $ 55      
Accounts receivable 38      
Other current assets 12      
Property and equipment 13      
Operating lease right-of-use assets 64      
Total intangible assets 779      
Goodwill 1,357      
Deferred tax assets, net 50      
Other assets 99      
Liabilities:        
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities (96)      
Deferred revenue (89)      
Operating lease liabilities (68)      
Deferred tax liabilities, net (214)      
Uncertain tax positions (71)      
Other liabilities (2)      
Total liabilities (540)      
Net assets acquired $ 1,927      
Weighted average life of intangible assets acquired (in years) 18 years      
RMS | Customer relationships        
Business Acquisition [Line Items]        
Total intangible assets $ 518      
Liabilities:        
Weighted average life of intangible assets acquired acquired (in years) 23 years      
RMS | Product technology        
Business Acquisition [Line Items]        
Total intangible assets $ 212      
Liabilities:        
Weighted average life of intangible assets acquired acquired (in years) 7 years      
RMS | Trade names        
Business Acquisition [Line Items]        
Total intangible assets $ 49      
Liabilities:        
Weighted average life of intangible assets acquired acquired (in years) 9 years      
v3.24.0.1
Acquisition - Pro Forma Information (Details) - RMS
$ in Millions
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2021
USD ($)
Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Information, Nonrecurring Adjustment [Line Items]  
Pro forma Revenue $ 6,463
Pro forma Net Income attributable to Moody's $ 2,244
v3.24.0.1
Goodwill And Other Acquired Intangible Assets - Activity in Goodwill (Detail) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Goodwill [Roll Forward]    
Beginning balance, goodwill gross $ 5,851 $ 6,011
Beginning balance, accumulated impairment charge (12) (12)
Beginning balance, goodwill net 5,839 5,999
Additions/adjustments 3 92
Foreign currency translation adjustments 114 (252)
Ending balance, goodwill gross 5,968 5,851
Ending balance, accumulated impairment charge (12) (12)
Ending balance, goodwill net 5,956 5,839
MA    
Goodwill [Roll Forward]    
Beginning balance, goodwill gross 5,474 5,615
Beginning balance, accumulated impairment charge (12) (12)
Beginning balance, goodwill net 5,462 5,603
Additions/adjustments 90 88
Foreign currency translation adjustments 117 (229)
Ending balance, goodwill gross 5,681 5,474
Ending balance, accumulated impairment charge (12) (12)
Ending balance, goodwill net 5,669 5,462
MIS    
Goodwill [Roll Forward]    
Beginning balance, goodwill gross 377 396
Beginning balance, accumulated impairment charge 0 0
Beginning balance, goodwill net 377 396
Additions/adjustments (87) 4
Foreign currency translation adjustments (3) (23)
Ending balance, goodwill gross 287 377
Ending balance, accumulated impairment charge 0 0
Ending balance, goodwill net $ 287 $ 377
v3.24.0.1
Goodwill And Other Acquired Intangible Assets - Acquired Intangible Assets and Related Amortization (Detail) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]    
Acquired intangible assets, net $ 2,049 $ 2,210
Customer relationships    
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]    
Acquired intangible assets, gross 2,065 2,024
Accumulated amortization (556) (453)
Acquired intangible assets, net 1,509 1,571
Software/product technology    
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]    
Acquired intangible assets, gross 674 661
Accumulated amortization (364) (283)
Acquired intangible assets, net 310 378
Database    
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]    
Acquired intangible assets, gross 179 178
Accumulated amortization (82) (64)
Acquired intangible assets, net 97 114
Trade names    
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]    
Acquired intangible assets, gross 199 197
Accumulated amortization (72) (58)
Acquired intangible assets, net 127 139
Other    
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]    
Acquired intangible assets, gross 52 52
Accumulated amortization (46) (44)
Acquired intangible assets, net $ 6 $ 8
v3.24.0.1
Goodwill And Other Acquired Intangible Assets - Amortization Expense Relating to Acquired Intangible Assets (Detail) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Dec. 31, 2021
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]      
Amortization expense $ 198 $ 200 $ 158
v3.24.0.1
Goodwill And Other Acquired Intangible Assets - Estimated Future Amortization Expense for Acquired Intangible Assets Subject to Amortization (Detail)
$ in Millions
Dec. 31, 2023
USD ($)
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]  
2024 $ 193
2025 190
2026 186
2027 170
2028 158
Thereafter 1,152
Total estimated future amortization $ 2,049
v3.24.0.1
Restructuring - Additional Information (Detail) - 2022 - 2023 Geolocation Restructuring Program - USD ($)
$ in Millions
 12 Months Ended 27 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Dec. 31, 2024
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]      
Payments for restructuring $ 79 $ 22  
Minimum | Forecast      
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]      
Payments for restructuring     $ 130
Minimum | Estimated Annual Savings      
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]      
Effect on future earnings, amount 145    
Maximum | Forecast      
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]      
Payments for restructuring     $ 140
Maximum | Estimated Annual Savings      
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]      
Effect on future earnings, amount $ 165    
v3.24.0.1
Restructuring - Restructuring Expenses Included in Consolidated Statements of Operations (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Dec. 31, 2021
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]      
Restructuring $ 87 $ 114 $ 0
Operating lease right-of-use assets 277 346  
Real Estate      
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]      
Operating lease right-of-use assets 4 0  
2022 - 2023 Geolocation Restructuring Program      
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]      
Restructuring 87 113  
Cumulative expense incurred 200    
2022 - 2023 Geolocation Restructuring Program | Employee Severance      
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]      
Restructuring 51 85  
Cumulative expense incurred 136    
2022 - 2023 Geolocation Restructuring Program | Real Estate      
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]      
Restructuring 36 27  
Cumulative expense incurred 63    
2022 - 2023 Geolocation Restructuring Program | Other Restructuring      
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]      
Restructuring 0 $ 1  
Cumulative expense incurred $ 1    
v3.24.0.1
Restructuring - Restructuring Expenses Included in Consolidated Statements of Operations (Footnote) (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]    
Operating lease right-of-use assets $ 277 $ 346
Real Estate    
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]    
Operating lease right-of-use assets $ 4 $ 0
v3.24.0.1
Restructuring - Changes in Restructuring Liability (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward]    
Restructuring liability, beginning balance $ 65 $ 4
Restructuring liability, ending balance $ 36 65
Restructuring, incurred cost, statement of income or comprehensive income Restructuring Charges  
2020 MA Strategic Reorganization Restructuring Program    
Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward]    
Cost incurred and adjustments $ 0 (1)
Cash payments (1) (2)
2022 - 2023 Geolocation Restructuring Program    
Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward]    
Cost incurred and adjustments 51 86
Cash payments $ (79) $ (22)
v3.24.0.1
Fair Value - Financial Instruments Carried at Fair Value on Recurring Basis (Detail) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Assets:    
Derivatives $ 16 $ 46
Total 123 117
Liabilities:    
Derivatives 366 319
Total 366 319
Mutual funds    
Assets:    
Money market funds/mutual funds 97 71
Mutual Funds And Money Market Funds Member    
Assets:    
Money market funds/mutual funds 107  
Level 1    
Assets:    
Derivatives 0 0
Total 107 71
Liabilities:    
Derivatives 0 0
Total 0 0
Level 1 | Mutual funds    
Assets:    
Money market funds/mutual funds   71
Level 1 | Mutual Funds And Money Market Funds Member    
Assets:    
Money market funds/mutual funds 107  
Level 2    
Assets:    
Derivatives 16 46
Total 16 46
Liabilities:    
Derivatives 366 319
Total 366 319
Level 2 | Mutual funds    
Assets:    
Money market funds/mutual funds   $ 0
Level 2 | Mutual Funds And Money Market Funds Member    
Assets:    
Money market funds/mutual funds $ 0  
v3.24.0.1
Other Balance Sheet Information - Additional Details Related to Certain Balance Sheet Captions (Detail) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Dec. 31, 2021
Other current assets:      
Prepaid taxes $ 115 $ 235  
Prepaid expenses 133 119  
Capitalized costs to obtain and fulfill sales contracts 116 106  
Foreign exchange forwards on certain assets and liabilities 13 19  
Interest receivable on interest rate and cross currency swaps 79 74  
Other 33 30  
Total other current assets 489 583  
Other assets:      
Investments in non-consolidated affiliates 521 517  
Deposits for real-estate leases 16 15  
Indemnification assets related to acquisitions 111 110  
Mutual funds, certificates of deposit and money market deposit accounts/funds 100 87  
Company owned life insurance (at contract value) 47 40  
Costs to obtain sales contracts 196 171  
Derivative instruments designated as accounting hedges 3 27  
Pension and other retirement employee benefits 41 40  
Other 103 85  
Total other assets 1,138 1,092  
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities:      
Salaries and benefits 130 104  
Incentive compensation 345 276  
Customer credits, advanced payments and advanced billings 105 102  
Dividends 7 6  
Professional service fees 46 49  
Accounts payable 23 52  
Income taxes 108 86  
Pension and other retirement employee benefits 15 7  
Accrued royalties 24 23  
Foreign exchange forwards on certain assets and liabilities 0 2  
Restructuring liability 35 65  
Other 88 95  
Total accounts payable and accrued liabilities 1,076 1,011  
Other liabilities:      
Pension and other retirement employee benefits 190 189  
Interest accrued on UTPs 36 47 $ 59
MAKS indemnification provisions 19 23  
Income tax liability – non-current portion 15 48  
Derivative instruments designated as accounting hedges 366 317  
Restructuring liability – non-current portion 1 0  
Other 49 50  
Total other liabilities 676 674  
Debt      
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities:      
Interest accrued 83 92  
Swap      
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities:      
Interest accrued $ 67 $ 52  
v3.24.0.1
Other Balance Sheet Information - Investments in Non-Consolidated Affiliates (Details) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Equity Method Investments and Joint Ventures [Abstract]    
Equity method investments $ 186 $ 187
Investments measured using the measurement alternative 327 325
Other 8 5
Total investments in non-consolidated affiliates $ 521 $ 517
v3.24.0.1
Comprehensive Income And Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income - Reclassification out of AOCI (Detail) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Dec. 31, 2021
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]      
Other non-operating income, net $ 49 $ 38 $ 82
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes, Noncontrolling Interest 1,935 1,760 2,755
Provision for income taxes (327) (386) (541)
Net income attributable to Moody’s 1,607 1,374 2,214
Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income      
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]      
Net income attributable to Moody’s 2 (24) (15)
Losses on currency translation adjustments | Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income      
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]      
Other non-operating income, net 0 (20) 0
Net income attributable to Moody’s 0 (20) 0
Losses on cash flow hedges | Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income      
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]      
Total before income taxes (2) (2) (2)
Provision for income taxes 1 0 0
Net income attributable to Moody’s (1) (2) (2)
Losses on cash flow hedges | Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income | Cross currency swaps      
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]      
Other non-operating income, net 1 1 0
Losses on cash flow hedges | Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income | Interest rate contract      
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]      
Other non-operating income, net (3) (3) (2)
Gains on net investment hedges | Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income      
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]      
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes, Noncontrolling Interest 0 0 2
Provision for income taxes 0 0 (1)
Net income attributable to Moody’s 0 0 1
Gains on net investment hedges | Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income | FX forwards      
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]      
Other non-operating income, net 0 0 2
Pension and other retirement benefits | Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income      
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]      
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes, Noncontrolling Interest 3 (3) (19)
Provision for income taxes 0 1 5
Net income attributable to Moody’s 3 (2) (14)
Amortization of actuarial gains (losses), prior service credits (costs), and settlement gain (charge) included in net income | Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income      
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]      
Other non-operating income, net 2 (3) (11)
Settlement credit (charge) | Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income      
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]      
Other non-operating income, net $ 1 $ 0 $ (8)
v3.24.0.1
Comprehensive Income And Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income - Changes in Components of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Detail) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Dec. 31, 2021
AOCI Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest, Net of Tax [Roll Forward]      
Beginning Balance $ 2,689 $ 2,916 $ 1,763
Ending Balance 3,476 2,689 2,916
Total      
AOCI Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest, Net of Tax [Roll Forward]      
Beginning Balance (643) (410) (432)
Other comprehensive income/(loss) before reclassifications 78 (257) 7
Amounts reclassified from AOCL (2) 24 15
Other comprehensive income/(loss) 76 (233) 22
Ending Balance (567) (643) (410)
Foreign  Currency Translation Adjustments      
AOCI Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest, Net of Tax [Roll Forward]      
Beginning Balance (736) (335) (45)
Other comprehensive income/(loss) before reclassifications 216 (421) (290)
Amounts reclassified from AOCL 0 20 0
Other comprehensive income/(loss) 216 (401) (290)
Ending Balance (520) (736) (335)
Gains/(Losses) on Cash Flow Hedges      
AOCI Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest, Net of Tax [Roll Forward]      
Beginning Balance (45) (47) (49)
Other comprehensive income/(loss) before reclassifications 0 0 0
Amounts reclassified from AOCL 1 2 2
Other comprehensive income/(loss) 1 2 2
Ending Balance (44) (45) (47)
Net Investment Hedges      
AOCI Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest, Net of Tax [Roll Forward]      
Beginning Balance 185 21 (220)
Other comprehensive income/(loss) before reclassifications (132) 164 242
Amounts reclassified from AOCL 0 0 1
Other comprehensive income/(loss) (132) 164 241
Ending Balance 53 185 21
Pension and  Other Retirement Benefits      
AOCI Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest, Net of Tax [Roll Forward]      
Beginning Balance (47) (49) (118)
Other comprehensive income/(loss) before reclassifications (6) 0 55
Amounts reclassified from AOCL (3) 2 14
Other comprehensive income/(loss) (9) 2 69
Ending Balance $ (56) $ (47) $ (49)
v3.24.0.1
Pension And Other Retirement Benefits - Summary of Changes in Benefit Obligations and Fair Value of Plan Assets for Post-Retirement Plans (Detail) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Dec. 31, 2021
Change in benefit obligation:      
Interest cost $ (26) $ (17) $ (16)
Amounts recorded on the consolidated balance sheets:      
Pension and retirement benefits asset – non current 41 40  
Pension and retirement benefits liability – current (15) (7)  
Pension and retirement benefits liability – non current (190) (189)  
U.S. | Pension Plans      
Change in benefit obligation:      
Benefit obligation, beginning of the period (462) (570)  
Service cost (11) (14) (19)
Interest cost (22) (15) (14)
Plan participants’ contributions 0 0  
Benefits paid 30 20  
Actuarial (loss) gain (4) 1  
Assumption changes (15) 116  
Benefit obligation, end of the period (484) (462) (570)
Change in plan assets:      
Fair value of plan assets, beginning of the period 420 544  
Actual return on plan assets 48 (111)  
Benefits paid (30) (20)  
Employer contributions 11 7  
Plan participants’ contributions 0 0  
Fair value of plan assets, end of the period 449 420 544
Funded status of the plans (35) (42)  
Amounts recorded on the consolidated balance sheets:      
Pension and retirement benefits asset – non current 40 39  
Pension and retirement benefits liability – current (13) (5)  
Pension and retirement benefits liability – non current (62) (76)  
Net amount recognized (35) (42)  
Accumulated benefit obligation, end of the period (453) (432)  
U.S. | Other Retirement Plans      
Change in benefit obligation:      
Benefit obligation, beginning of the period (39) (48)  
Service cost (3) (4) (4)
Interest cost (2) (1) (1)
Plan participants’ contributions (1) (1)  
Benefits paid 2 2  
Actuarial (loss) gain 2 0  
Assumption changes (1) 13  
Benefit obligation, end of the period (42) (39) (48)
Change in plan assets:      
Fair value of plan assets, beginning of the period 0 0  
Actual return on plan assets 0 0  
Benefits paid (2) (2)  
Employer contributions 1 1  
Plan participants’ contributions 1 1  
Fair value of plan assets, end of the period 0 0 $ 0
Funded status of the plans (42) (39)  
Amounts recorded on the consolidated balance sheets:      
Pension and retirement benefits asset – non current 0 0  
Pension and retirement benefits liability – current (2) (2)  
Pension and retirement benefits liability – non current (40) (37)  
Net amount recognized $ (42) $ (39)  
v3.24.0.1
Pension And Other Retirement Benefits - Accumulated Benefit Obligation in Excess of Plan Assets (Detail) - Pension Plans - U.S. Plans - USD ($)
$ in Millions
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]    
Aggregate projected benefit obligation $ 75 $ 82
Aggregate accumulated benefit obligation $ 67 $ 72
v3.24.0.1
Pension And Other Retirement Benefits - Summary of Pre-Tax Net Actuarial Losses and Prior Service Cost Recognized in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) (Detail) - U.S. Plans - USD ($)
$ in Millions
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Pension Plans    
Share-based Payment Arrangement, Expensed and Capitalized, Amount [Line Items]    
Net actuarial gains (losses) $ (82) $ (77)
Net prior service credits 1 2
Total recognized in AOCL – pre-tax (81) (75)
Other Retirement Plans    
Share-based Payment Arrangement, Expensed and Capitalized, Amount [Line Items]    
Net actuarial gains (losses) 10 9
Net prior service credits 0 0
Total recognized in AOCL – pre-tax $ 10 $ 9
v3.24.0.1
Pension And Other Retirement Benefits - Components of Net Periodic Benefit Expense Related to Retirement Plans (Detail) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Dec. 31, 2021
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]      
Interest cost $ 26 $ 17 $ 16
U.S. Plans | Pension Plans      
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]      
Service cost 11 14 19
Interest cost 22 15 14
Expected return on plan assets (32) (26) (27)
Amortization of net actuarial (gains) losses and prior service credits from earlier periods (1) 3 11
Loss on settlement of pension obligation (2) 0 8
Net periodic (income) expense (2) 6 25
U.S. Plans | Other Retirement Plans      
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]      
Service cost 3 4 4
Interest cost 2 1 1
Expected return on plan assets 0 0 0
Amortization of net actuarial (gains) losses and prior service credits from earlier periods (1) 0 1
Loss on settlement of pension obligation 0 0 0
Net periodic (income) expense $ 4 $ 5 $ 6
v3.24.0.1
Pension And Other Retirement Benefits - Summary Of Pre Tax Amounts Recognized In Other Comprehensive Income (Detail) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Dec. 31, 2021
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]      
Net actuarial (loss)/gain arising during the period $ (8) $ (1) $ 73
U.S. Plans | Pension Plans      
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]      
Amortization of net actuarial (gains) losses and prior service credit (1) 3 11
Settlement (gain) loss (2) 0 8
Net actuarial (loss)/gain arising during the period (3) (19) 65
Total recognized in OCI – pre-tax (6) (16) 84
U.S. Plans | Other Retirement Plans      
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]      
Amortization of net actuarial (gains) losses and prior service credit (1) 0 1
Settlement (gain) loss 0 0 0
Net actuarial (loss)/gain arising during the period 1 13 4
Total recognized in OCI – pre-tax $ 0 $ 13 $ 5
v3.24.0.1
Pension And Other Retirement Benefits - Weighted-Average Assumptions Used to Determine Benefit Obligations (Detail) - U.S. Plans
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Pension Plans    
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]    
Discount rate 4.73% 4.93%
Rate of compensation increase 3.60% 3.63%
Other Retirement Plans    
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]    
Discount rate 4.75% 4.90%
Rate of compensation increase 0.00% 0.00%
v3.24.0.1
Pension And Other Retirement Benefits - Weighted-Average Assumptions Used to Determine Net Periodic Benefit Expense (Detail) - U.S. Plans
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Dec. 31, 2021
Pension Plans      
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]      
Discount rate 4.93% 2.60% 2.24%
Expected return on plan assets 6.55% 5.05% 5.45%
Rate of compensation increase 3.63% 3.63% 3.62%
Cash balance plan interest crediting rate 4.50% 4.50% 4.50%
Other Retirement Plans      
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]      
Discount rate 4.90% 2.65% 2.30%
Expected return on plan assets 0.00% 0.00% 0.00%
Rate of compensation increase 0.00% 0.00% 0.00%
Cash balance plan interest crediting rate 0.00% 0.00% 0.00%
v3.24.0.1
Pension and Other Retirement Benefits - Additional Information (Detail) - USD ($)
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2024
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Dec. 31, 2021
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Abstract]        
Dividends paid on ESOP   $ 1,000,000 $ 1,000,000 $ 1,000,000
Moody's shares held in ESOP   315,400 329,300  
U.S. Plans        
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Abstract]        
Employee contribution percentage of employee contribution in participation   50.00%    
Maximum employee contribution in profit participation plan   3.00%    
Defined contribution compensation expense   $ 71,000,000 $ 35,000,000 $ 54,000,000
U.S. Plans | Pension Plans        
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Abstract]        
Expected rate of return   6.55% 5.05% 5.45%
Employer contributions   $ 11,000,000 $ 7,000,000  
U.S. Plans | Other Retirement Plans        
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Abstract]        
Expected rate of return   0.00% 0.00% 0.00%
Employer contributions   $ 1,000,000 $ 1,000,000  
U.S. Plans | Equity Securities | Pension Plans        
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Abstract]        
Plan asset, target asset allocation percentage   35.00%    
U.S. Plans | Equity Securities | Pension Plans | Minimum        
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Abstract]        
Plan asset, target asset allocation percentage   23.00%    
U.S. Plans | Equity Securities | Pension Plans | Maximum        
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Abstract]        
Plan asset, target asset allocation percentage   46.00%    
U.S. Plans | Fixed Income Securities | Pension Plans        
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Abstract]        
Plan asset, target asset allocation percentage   61.00%    
U.S. Plans | Fixed Income Securities | Pension Plans | Minimum        
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Abstract]        
Plan asset, target asset allocation percentage   44.00%    
U.S. Plans | Fixed Income Securities | Pension Plans | Maximum        
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Abstract]        
Plan asset, target asset allocation percentage   77.00%    
U.S. Plans | Other Investments | Pension Plans        
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Abstract]        
Plan asset, target asset allocation percentage   5.00%    
U.S. Plans | Other Investments | Pension Plans | Minimum        
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Abstract]        
Plan asset, target asset allocation percentage   2.00%    
U.S. Plans | Other Investments | Pension Plans | Maximum        
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Abstract]        
Plan asset, target asset allocation percentage   8.00%    
Non-U.S. Plans        
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Abstract]        
Defined contribution compensation expense   $ 42,000,000 37,000,000 $ 32,000,000
Unfunded Plan | U.S. Plans | Pension Plans        
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Abstract]        
Employer contributions   $ 11,000,000 $ 7,000,000  
Forecast | U.S. Plans | Pension Plans        
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Abstract]        
Expected rate of return 6.10%      
Forecast | Funded Plan | Pension Plans        
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Abstract]        
Employer contributions $ 0      
Forecast | Unfunded Plan | U.S. Plans | Pension Plans        
Defined Benefit Plans and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans [Abstract]        
Employer contributions $ 13,000,000      
v3.24.0.1
Pension And Other Retirement Benefits - Summary of Pension Plan Assets by Category Based on Hierarchy of Fair Value Measurements (Detail) - Pension Plans - U.S. Plans - USD ($)
$ in Millions
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Dec. 31, 2021
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]      
Total assets $ 449 $ 420 $ 544
Percent of total assets 100.00% 100.00%  
Level 1      
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]      
Total assets $ 25 $ 38  
Level 2      
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]      
Total assets 356 317  
Measured using NAV practical expedient      
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]      
Total assets 68 65  
Cash and cash equivalents      
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]      
Total assets $ 5 $ 5  
Percent of total assets 1.00% 1.00%  
Cash and cash equivalents | Level 2      
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]      
Total assets $ 5 $ 5  
Total equity investments      
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]      
Total assets $ 147 $ 132  
Percent of total assets 33.00% 31.00%  
Total equity investments | Level 2      
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]      
Total assets $ 147 $ 132  
U.S. large-cap      
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]      
Total assets $ 106 $ 96  
Percent of total assets 24.00% 23.00%  
U.S. large-cap | Level 2      
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]      
Total assets $ 106 $ 96  
U.S. small and mid-cap      
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]      
Total assets $ 21 $ 17  
Percent of total assets 5.00% 4.00%  
U.S. small and mid-cap | Level 2      
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]      
Total assets $ 21 $ 17  
Emerging markets      
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]      
Total assets $ 20 $ 19  
Percent of total assets 4.00% 5.00%  
Emerging markets | Level 2      
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]      
Total assets $ 20 $ 19  
Total fixed-income investments      
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]      
Total assets $ 272 $ 256  
Percent of total assets 60.00% 61.00%  
Total fixed-income investments | Level 1      
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]      
Total assets $ 25 $ 38  
Total fixed-income investments | Level 2      
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]      
Total assets 204 180  
Total fixed-income investments | Measured using NAV practical expedient      
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]      
Total assets 43 38  
Emerging markets bond fund      
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]      
Total assets $ 29 $ 26  
Percent of total assets 6.00% 6.00%  
Emerging markets bond fund | Measured using NAV practical expedient      
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]      
Total assets $ 29 $ 26  
Intermediate-term investment grade U.S. government/ corporate bonds      
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]      
Total assets $ 60 $ 54  
Percent of total assets 13.00% 13.00%  
Intermediate-term investment grade U.S. government/ corporate bonds | Level 2      
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]      
Total assets $ 60 $ 54  
Long duration corporate bonds      
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]      
Total assets $ 144 $ 126  
Percent of total assets 32.00% 30.00%  
Long duration corporate bonds | Level 1      
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]      
Total assets $ 0 $ 0  
Long duration corporate bonds | Level 2      
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]      
Total assets 144 126  
U.S. Treasury Inflation-Protected Securities (TIPs)      
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]      
Total assets $ 25 $ 24  
Percent of total assets 6.00% 6.00%  
U.S. Treasury Inflation-Protected Securities (TIPs) | Level 1      
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]      
Total assets $ 25 $ 24  
Convertible securities      
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]      
Total assets   $ 14  
Percent of total assets   3.00%  
Convertible securities | Level 1      
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]      
Total assets   $ 14  
Private investment fund—high yield securities      
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]      
Total assets $ 14 $ 12  
Percent of total assets 3.00% 3.00%  
Private investment fund—high yield securities | Measured using NAV practical expedient      
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]      
Total assets $ 14 $ 12  
Other investment—private real estate fund      
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]      
Total assets $ 25 $ 27  
Percent of total assets 5.00% 6.00%  
Other investment—private real estate fund | Measured using NAV practical expedient      
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]      
Total assets $ 25 $ 27  
v3.24.0.1
Pension And Other Retirement Benefits - Estimated Future Benefits Payments for Retirement Plans (Detail) - U.S. Plans
$ in Millions
Dec. 31, 2023
USD ($)
Pension Plans  
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]  
2024 $ 28
2025 25
2026 28
2027 30
2028 30
2029 - 2033 167
Other Retirement Plans  
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]  
2024 2
2025 2
2026 2
2027 2
2028 3
2029 - 2033 $ 18
v3.24.0.1
Stock-Based Compensation Plans - Additional Information (Detail) - USD ($)
shares in Millions, $ in Millions
 1 Months Ended 12 Months Ended
Sep. 15, 2021
Apr. 30, 2023
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Dec. 31, 2021
RMS          
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]          
Fair value of equity interest in RMS prior to obtaining a controlling interest $ 33        
Consideration transferred 5        
Share-based payment arrangement, expense $ 28        
Equity Option          
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]          
Unrecognized compensation expense     $ 9    
Weighted average period to recognize expense     1 year 10 months 24 days    
Restricted Stock          
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]          
Unrecognized compensation expense     $ 219    
Weighted average period to recognize expense     2 years 4 months 24 days    
Performance Based Restricted Stock          
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]          
Unrecognized compensation expense     $ 24    
Weighted average period to recognize expense     2 years    
Employee Stock Purchase Plan          
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]          
Common stock reserve for issuance or grant (shares)     6.0    
Discount allowed to employees on purchase of shares under ESPP plan     5.00% 5.00% 5.00%
1998 and 2001 Plan | Equity Option          
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]          
Award vesting period (in years)     4 years    
1998 and 2001 Plan | Performance Based Restricted Stock          
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]          
Award vesting period (in years)     3 years    
1998 Plan          
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]          
Common stock reserve for issuance or grant (shares)     33.0    
2001 Plan          
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]          
Common stock reserve for issuance or grant (shares)     54.6    
2001 Plan | Instruments Other Than Options          
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]          
Common stock reserve for issuance or grant (shares)     10.7    
Directors' Plan          
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]          
Common stock reserve for issuance or grant (shares)     1.7    
Award vesting period (in years)     1 year    
RMS Plan          
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]          
Common stock reserve for issuance or grant (shares) 1.2        
Award vesting period (in years)     4 years    
2001 Plan          
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]          
Share-based compensation arrangement by share-based payment award, number of additional shares authorized (in shares)   4.0      
Minimum | Employee Stock Purchase Plan          
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]          
Employee subscription rate as a percentage of compensation     1.00%    
Minimum | 1998 and 2001 Plan | Equity Option | Employees at or Near Retirement Eligibility          
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]          
Award vesting period (in years)     1 year    
Maximum | Employee Stock Purchase Plan          
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]          
Employee subscription rate as a percentage of compensation     10.00%    
Maximum | 1998 and 2001 Plan | Equity Option          
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]          
Expiration period     10 years    
Maximum | 1998 and 2001 Plan | Equity Option | Employees at or Near Retirement Eligibility          
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]          
Award vesting period (in years)     4 years    
Maximum | RMS Plan | Equity Option          
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]          
Expiration period     10 years    
v3.24.0.1
Stock-Based Compensation Plans - Stock-Based Compensation Cost and Associated Tax Benefit (Detail) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Dec. 31, 2021
Share-Based Payment Arrangement [Abstract]      
Stock-based compensation expense $ 193 $ 169 $ 175
Tax benefit $ 45 $ 41 $ 42
v3.24.0.1
Stock-Based Compensation Plans - Weighted Average Assumptions used in Determining Fair Value for Options Granted (Detail) - $ / shares
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Dec. 31, 2021
Share-Based Payment Arrangement [Abstract]      
Expected dividend yield 1.04% 0.86% 0.89%
Expected stock volatility 29.00% 27.00% 28.00%
Risk-free interest rate 4.19% 1.91% 0.82%
Expected holding period (in years) 5 years 9 months 18 days 5 years 7 months 6 days 5 years 7 months 6 days
Weighted average grant date fair value per share (in USD per share) $ 94.71 $ 84.00 $ 121.14
v3.24.0.1
Stock-Based Compensation Plans - Summary of Option Activity (Details)
$ / shares in Units, shares in Millions, $ in Millions
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
USD ($)
$ / shares
shares
Shares  
Shares, outstanding, beginning balance (in shares) | shares 1.0
Shares, granted (in shares) | shares 0.1
Shares, exercised (in shares) | shares (0.3)
Shares, outstanding, ending balance (in shares) | shares 0.8
Shares, vested and expected to vest (in shares) | shares 0.8
Shares, exercisable (in shares) | shares 0.6
Weighted Average Exercise Price Per Share  
Weighted average exercise price per share, beginning balance (in USD per share) | $ / shares $ 181.35
Weighted average exercise price per share, granted (in USD per share) | $ / shares 295.42
Weighted average exercise price per share, exercised (in USD per share) | $ / shares 116.05
Weighted average exercise price per share, ending balance (in USD per share) | $ / shares 212.29
Weighted average exercise price per share, vested and expected to vest (in USD per share) | $ / shares 212.11
Weighted average exercise price per share, exercisable (in USD per share) | $ / shares $ 176.07
Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term  
Weighted average remaining contractual term, outstanding (in years) 5 years
Weighted average remaining contractual term, vested and expected to vest (in years) 5 years
Weighted average remaining contractual term (in years) 3 years 9 months 18 days
Aggregate Intrinsic Value  
Aggregate intrinsic value, outstanding | $ $ 147
Aggregate intrinsic value, vested and expected to vest | $ 147
Aggregate intrinsic value, exercisable | $ $ 123
v3.24.0.1
Stock-Based Compensation Plans - Stock Option Exercises and Restricted Stock Vesting (Detail) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Dec. 31, 2021
Share-based Payment Arrangement, Option, Exercise Price Range [Line Items]      
Proceeds from stock option exercises $ 32 $ 8 $ 24
Aggregate intrinsic value 58 9 55
Tax benefit realized upon exercise 14 2 13
Restricted Stock      
Share-based Payment Arrangement, Option, Exercise Price Range [Line Items]      
Fair value of shares vested 164 180 194
Tax benefit realized upon vesting 40 42 46
Performance Based Restricted Stock      
Share-based Payment Arrangement, Option, Exercise Price Range [Line Items]      
Fair value of shares vested 24 50 28
Tax benefit realized upon vesting $ 3 $ 7 $ 7
v3.24.0.1
Stock-Based Compensation Plans - Summary of Nonvested Restricted Stock (Details) - Non Vested Restricted Stock
shares in Millions
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
$ / shares
shares
Shares  
Shares, beginning balance (in shares) | shares 1.3
Shares, granted (in shares) | shares 0.7
Shares, vested (in shares) | shares (0.6)
Shares, forfeited (in shares) | shares (0.1)
Shares, ending balance (in shares) | shares 1.3
Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Per Share  
Weighted average grant date fair value per share, beginning balance (in USD per share) | $ / shares $ 288.47
Weighted average grant date fair value per share, granted (in USD per share) | $ / shares 296.05
Weighted average grant date fair value per share, vested (in USD per share) | $ / shares 269.38
Weighted average grant date fair value per share, forfeited (in USD per share) | $ / shares 290.39
Weighted average grant date fair value per share, ending balance (in USD per share) | $ / shares $ 300.39
v3.24.0.1
Stock-Based Compensation Plans - Summary of Performance Based Restricted Stock (Details) - Performance Based Restricted Stock
shares in Millions
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
$ / shares
shares
Performance-Based Restricted Stock  
Shares, beginning balance (in shares) | shares 0.3
Shares, granted (in shares) | shares 0.1
Shares, vested (in shares) | shares (0.1)
Shares, ending balance (in shares) | shares 0.3
Performance based restricted stock, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Per Share  
Weighted average grant date fair value per share, beginning balance (in USD per share) | $ / shares $ 303.80
Weighted average grant date fair value per share, granted (in USD per share) | $ / shares 286.14
Weighted average grant date fair value per share, vested (in USD per share) | $ / shares 273.81
Weighted average grant date fair value per share, ending balance (in USD per share) | $ / shares $ 308.12
v3.24.0.1
Income Taxes - Provision for Income Taxes (Detail) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Dec. 31, 2021
Current:      
Federal $ 76 $ 106 $ 404
State and Local 67 17 106
Non-U.S. 222 215 249
Total current 365 338 759
Deferred:      
Federal (14) 57 (172)
State and Local (4) 10 (45)
Non-U.S. (20) (19) (1)
Total deferred (38) 48 (218)
Total provision for income taxes $ 327 $ 386 $ 541
v3.24.0.1
Income Taxes - Reconciliation of United States Federal Statutory Tax Rate to Effective Tax Rate on Income Before Provision for Income Taxes (Detail) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Dec. 31, 2021
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]      
U.S. statutory tax rate 21.00% 21.00% 21.00%
State and local taxes, net of federal tax benefit 2.50% 0.80% 1.50%
Foreign operations 0.40% (0.20%) (1.50%)
Release of UTP reserves (5.70%) 0.00% 0.00%
Other (1.30%) 0.30% (1.40%)
ETR 16.90% 21.90% 19.60%
Income tax paid $ 344 $ 488 $ 932
v3.24.0.1
Income Taxes - Source of income Before Provision for Income Taxes (Detail) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Dec. 31, 2021
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]      
U.S. $ 892 $ 804 $ 1,563
Non-U.S. 1,043 956 1,192
Income before provision for income taxes $ 1,935 $ 1,760 $ 2,755
v3.24.0.1
Income Taxes - Components of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities (Detail) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Dec. 31, 2021
Dec. 31, 2020
Deferred tax assets:        
Account receivable allowances $ 9 $ 9    
Accumulated depreciation and amortization 19 15    
Stock-based compensation 60 57    
Accrued compensation and benefits 53 51    
Capitalized costs 25 27    
Operating lease liabilities 103 115    
Deferred revenue 200 206    
Net operating loss 38 36    
Restructuring 7 11    
Uncertain tax positions 29 68    
Self-insured related reserves 6 12    
Other 13 14    
Total deferred tax assets 562 621    
Deferred tax liabilities:        
Accumulated depreciation and amortization of intangible assets and capitalized software (551) (593)    
ROU Assets (67) (82)    
Capital gains (20) (29)    
Self-insured related income (6) (12)    
Revenue Accounting Standard - ASC Topic 606 (4) (5)    
Deferred tax on unremitted foreign earnings (14) (13)    
Gain on net investment hedges - OCI (5) (48)    
Other (15) (9)    
Total deferred tax liabilities (682) (791)    
Net deferred tax liabilities (120) (170)    
Valuation allowance (24) (21) $ (18) $ (15)
Total net deferred tax liabilities $ (144) $ (191)    
v3.24.0.1
Income Taxes - Additional Information (Detail) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Dec. 31, 2021
Dec. 31, 2020
Sep. 30, 2018
Income Tax Contingency [Line Items]          
Revision of estimated repatriation tax liability resulting from tax reform legislation         $ 236
Revision of estimated repatriation tax liability resulting from tax reform legislation, due at end of year $ 15        
Unrecognized tax benefits, reduction resulting from lapse of applicable statute of limitations and settlement 120        
Excess tax benefits from stock compensation 15        
Unrecognized tax benefits, decrease resulting from current period tax positions 13        
Valuation allowance 24 $ 21 $ 18 $ 15  
Unrecognized tax benefits 196 322 388 $ 483  
Uncertain tax positions if recognized would impact the effective tax rate 93        
Interest accrued on UTPs $ 36 $ 47 $ 59    
Inflation reduction act impact on ETR In August 2022, the U.S. Congress passed the Inflation Reduction Act, which included a corporate minimum tax on book earnings of 15%, an excise tax on corporate share repurchases of 1%, and certain climate change and energy tax credit incentives. The adoption of a corporate minimum tax of 15% did not have a significant impact on Moody’s ETR. The excise tax of 1% on corporate share buybacks is recorded to shareholders' equity and does not have an impact on the Company’s ETR.        
v3.24.0.1
Income Taxes - Reconciliation of Uncertain Tax Positions (Detail) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Dec. 31, 2021
Reconciliation of Unrecognized Tax Benefits      
Unrecognized tax positions, beginning balance $ 322 $ 388 $ 483
Additions for tax positions related to the current year 21 12 102
Additions for tax positions of prior years 3 12 18
Reductions for tax positions of prior years (17) (27) 0
Settlements with taxing authorities (108) (30) (134)
Lapse of statute of limitations (25) (33) (81)
Unrecognized tax positions, ending balance $ 196 $ 322 $ 388
v3.24.0.1
Indebtedness - Summary of Total Indebtedness (Detail) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Debt Instrument [Line Items]    
Principal Amount $ 7,281 $ 7,734
Fair Value of Interest Rate Swap (183) (239)
Unamortized (Discount) Premium (51) (55)
Unamortized Debt Issuance Costs (46) (51)
Carrying Amount $ 7,001 $ 7,389
4.875% 2013 Senior Notes, due 2024    
Debt Instrument [Line Items]    
Notes payable, interest rate   4.875%
Principal Amount   $ 500
Fair Value of Interest Rate Swap   0
Unamortized (Discount) Premium   (1)
Unamortized Debt Issuance Costs   (1)
Carrying Amount   $ 498
2014 Senior Notes due 2044    
Debt Instrument [Line Items]    
Notes payable, interest rate 5.25% 5.25%
Principal Amount $ 600 $ 600
Fair Value of Interest Rate Swap (34) (42)
Unamortized (Discount) Premium 3 3
Unamortized Debt Issuance Costs (4) (4)
Carrying Amount $ 565 $ 557
1.75% 2015 Senior Notes, due 2027    
Debt Instrument [Line Items]    
Notes payable, interest rate 1.75% 1.75%
Principal Amount $ 552 $ 534
Fair Value of Interest Rate Swap 0 0
Unamortized (Discount) Premium 0 0
Unamortized Debt Issuance Costs (1) (2)
Carrying Amount $ 551 $ 532
2017 Senior Notes due 2028    
Debt Instrument [Line Items]    
Notes payable, interest rate 3.25% 3.25%
Principal Amount $ 500 $ 500
Fair Value of Interest Rate Swap (26) (37)
Unamortized (Discount) Premium (2) (3)
Unamortized Debt Issuance Costs (2) (2)
Carrying Amount $ 470 $ 458
2018 Senior Notes due 2029    
Debt Instrument [Line Items]    
Notes payable, interest rate 4.25% 4.25%
Principal Amount $ 400 $ 400
Fair Value of Interest Rate Swap (34) (42)
Unamortized (Discount) Premium (2) (2)
Unamortized Debt Issuance Costs (2) (2)
Carrying Amount $ 362 $ 354
2018 Senior Notes due 2048    
Debt Instrument [Line Items]    
Notes payable, interest rate 4.875% 4.875%
Principal Amount $ 400 $ 400
Fair Value of Interest Rate Swap (36) (44)
Unamortized (Discount) Premium (6) (6)
Unamortized Debt Issuance Costs (3) (4)
Carrying Amount $ 355 $ 346
0.950% 2019 Senior Notes, due 2030    
Debt Instrument [Line Items]    
Notes payable, interest rate 0.95% 0.95%
Principal Amount $ 829 $ 800
Fair Value of Interest Rate Swap 0 0
Unamortized (Discount) Premium (2) (2)
Unamortized Debt Issuance Costs (4) (4)
Carrying Amount $ 823 $ 794
3.75% 2020 Senior Notes, due 2025    
Debt Instrument [Line Items]    
Notes payable, interest rate 3.75% 3.75%
Principal Amount $ 700 $ 700
Fair Value of Interest Rate Swap (16) (27)
Unamortized (Discount) Premium (1) (1)
Unamortized Debt Issuance Costs (1) (3)
Carrying Amount $ 682 $ 669
3.25% 2020 Senior Notes, due 2050    
Debt Instrument [Line Items]    
Notes payable, interest rate 3.25% 3.25%
Principal Amount $ 300 $ 300
Fair Value of Interest Rate Swap 0 0
Unamortized (Discount) Premium (4) (4)
Unamortized Debt Issuance Costs (3) (3)
Carrying Amount $ 293 $ 293
2.55% 2020 Senior Notes, due 2060    
Debt Instrument [Line Items]    
Notes payable, interest rate 2.55% 2.55%
Principal Amount $ 300 $ 300
Fair Value of Interest Rate Swap 0 0
Unamortized (Discount) Premium (2) (2)
Unamortized Debt Issuance Costs (3) (3)
Carrying Amount $ 295 $ 295
2.00% 2021 Senior Notes, due 2031    
Debt Instrument [Line Items]    
Notes payable, interest rate 2.00% 2.00%
Principal Amount $ 600 $ 600
Fair Value of Interest Rate Swap 0 0
Unamortized (Discount) Premium (6) (7)
Unamortized Debt Issuance Costs (4) (4)
Carrying Amount $ 590 $ 589
2.75% 2021 Senior Notes, due 2041    
Debt Instrument [Line Items]    
Notes payable, interest rate 2.75% 2.75%
Principal Amount $ 600 $ 600
Fair Value of Interest Rate Swap 0 0
Unamortized (Discount) Premium (12) (13)
Unamortized Debt Issuance Costs (5) (5)
Carrying Amount $ 583 $ 582
3.10% 2021 Senior Notes, due 2061    
Debt Instrument [Line Items]    
Notes payable, interest rate 3.10% 3.10%
Principal Amount $ 500 $ 500
Fair Value of Interest Rate Swap 0 0
Unamortized (Discount) Premium (7) (7)
Unamortized Debt Issuance Costs (5) (5)
Carrying Amount $ 488 $ 488
2022 Senior Notes due 2052    
Debt Instrument [Line Items]    
Notes payable, interest rate 3.75% 3.75%
Principal Amount $ 500 $ 500
Fair Value of Interest Rate Swap (29) (35)
Unamortized (Discount) Premium (8) (8)
Unamortized Debt Issuance Costs (5) (5)
Carrying Amount $ 458 $ 452
2022 Senior Notes due 2032    
Debt Instrument [Line Items]    
Notes payable, interest rate 4.25% 4.25%
Principal Amount $ 500 $ 500
Fair Value of Interest Rate Swap (8) (12)
Unamortized (Discount) Premium (2) (2)
Unamortized Debt Issuance Costs (4) (4)
Carrying Amount $ 486 $ 482
v3.24.0.1
Indebtedness - Schedule of Credit Facilities (Details) - 2021 Credit Facility - USD ($)
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Dec. 17, 2021
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]      
Maximum Borrowing Capacity     $ 1,250,000,000
Drawn $ 0 $ 0  
Undrawn $ 1,250,000,000 $ 1,250,000,000  
v3.24.0.1
Indebtedness - Additional Information (Detail) - USD ($)
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2021
Dec. 17, 2021
Aug. 03, 2016
Debt Instrument [Line Items]        
Debt instrument, covenant compliance At December 31, 2023, the Company was in compliance with all covenants contained within all of the debt agreements. All of the debt agreements contain cross default provisions which state that default under one of the aforementioned debt instruments could in turn permit lenders under other debt instruments to declare borrowings outstanding under those instruments to be immediately due and payable. As of December 31, 2023, there were no such cross defaults.      
Benefit pursuant to the resolution of tax matters   $ 45,000,000    
2013 Senior Notes Due 2024        
Debt Instrument [Line Items]        
Repayments of debt $ 500,000,000      
2021 Credit Facility        
Debt Instrument [Line Items]        
Maximum borrowing capacity     $ 1,250,000,000  
2021 Credit Facility | Term Loan Facility Any Fiscal Quarter        
Debt Instrument [Line Items]        
Debt/EBITDA ratio 4      
2021 Credit Facility | First Three Consecutive Quarters immediately following Any Acquisition        
Debt Instrument [Line Items]        
Debt/EBITDA ratio 4.5      
2021 Credit Facility | Minimum        
Debt Instrument [Line Items]        
Facility fee basis points 0.07%      
Contingent consideration arising from acquisitions, payment or settlement $ 500,000,000      
2021 Credit Facility | Maximum        
Debt Instrument [Line Items]        
Facility fee basis points 0.15%      
Commercial Paper        
Debt Instrument [Line Items]        
Maximum borrowing capacity       $ 1,000,000,000
Commercial paper $ 0      
Commercial Paper | Maximum        
Debt Instrument [Line Items]        
Term 397 days      
Adjusted LIBOR | 2021 Credit Facility | Minimum        
Debt Instrument [Line Items]        
Basis spread on variable rate (percent) 0.805%      
Adjusted LIBOR | 2021 Credit Facility | Maximum        
Debt Instrument [Line Items]        
Basis spread on variable rate (percent) 1.225%      
v3.24.0.1
Indebtedness - Principal Payments Due on Long-Term Borrowings (Detail) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]    
2024 $ 0  
2025 700  
2026 0  
2027 552  
2028 500  
Thereafter 5,529  
Total principal payment $ 7,281 $ 7,734
v3.24.0.1
Indebtedness - Summary of Components of Interest as Presented in Consolidated Statements of Operations (Detail) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Dec. 31, 2021
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]      
Expense on borrowings(1) $ (296) $ (216) $ (185)
Income (expense) on UTPs and other tax related liabilities(2) 8 (13) 21
Net periodic pension costs--interest component (26) (17) (16)
Income 63 15 9
Interest expense, net (251) (231) (171)
Interest paid 281 $ 198 $ 162
Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Decrease in Interest on Income Taxes Expense Due to Resolution Of Tax Matters $ 22    
v3.24.0.1
Indebtedness - Fair Value and Carrying Value of Long-Term Debt (Detail) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Debt Instrument [Line Items]    
Carrying Amount $ 7,001 $ 7,389
Level 2    
Debt Instrument [Line Items]    
Estimated Fair Value $ 6,402 $ 6,564
v3.24.0.1
Capital Stock - Additional Information (Detail) - USD ($)
$ / shares in Units, $ in Billions
 12 Months Ended
Feb. 05, 2024
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Dec. 31, 2021
Class of Stock [Line Items]        
All classes of stock, shares authorized (in shares)   1,020,000,000.00    
Shares of all classes of stock, par value (in usd per share)   $ 0.01    
Common stock, shares authorized (in shares)   1,000,000,000 1,000,000,000  
Preferred stock, shares authorized (in shares)   10,000,000 10,000,000  
Shares issued during the period for stock-based compensation plans (in shares)   800,000    
Series Common Stock        
Class of Stock [Line Items]        
Common stock, shares authorized (in shares)   10,000,000 10,000,000  
Treasury Stock        
Class of Stock [Line Items]        
Treasury shares repurchased (in shares)   1,500,000 3,100,000 2,200,000
Subsequent Event        
Class of Stock [Line Items]        
Dividend declared, declaration date Feb. 05, 2024      
Quarterly dividend declared (in dollars per share) $ 0.85      
Dividend declared, payable date Mar. 15, 2024      
Dividend declared, record date Feb. 23, 2024      
Subsequent Event | February 6, 2024        
Class of Stock [Line Items]        
Amount Authorized $ 1      
v3.24.0.1
Capital Stock - Share Repurchase Programs (Detail) - February 8. 2022
$ in Millions
Dec. 31, 2023
USD ($)
Equity, Class of Treasury Stock [Line Items]  
Amount Authorized $ 750
Remaining Authority $ 359
v3.24.0.1
Capital Stock - Dividends Paid (Detail) - $ / shares
 3 Months Ended 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Sep. 30, 2023
Jun. 30, 2023
Mar. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Sep. 30, 2022
Jun. 30, 2022
Mar. 31, 2022
Dec. 31, 2021
Sep. 30, 2021
Jun. 30, 2021
Mar. 31, 2021
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Dec. 31, 2021
Stockholders' Equity Note [Abstract]                              
Dividends declared per share (in USD per share) $ 0.77 $ 0.77 $ 0.77 $ 0.77 $ 0.70 $ 0.70 $ 0.70 $ 0.70 $ 0.62 $ 0.62 $ 0.62 $ 0.62 $ 3.08 $ 2.80 $ 2.48
Dividends per share paid (in USD per share) $ 0.77 $ 0.77 $ 0.77 $ 0.77 $ 0.70 $ 0.70 $ 0.70 $ 0.70 $ 0.62 $ 0.62 $ 0.62 $ 0.62 $ 3.08 $ 2.80 $ 2.48
v3.24.0.1
Leases - Additional Information (Detail) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Dec. 31, 2021
Lessee, Lease, Description [Line Items]      
Restructuring Charges $ 87 $ 114 $ 0
2022 - 2023 Geolocation Restructuring Program      
Lessee, Lease, Description [Line Items]      
Restructuring Charges 87 113  
Real Estate | 2022 - 2023 Geolocation Restructuring Program      
Lessee, Lease, Description [Line Items]      
Restructuring Charges 36 27  
Restructuring Charges      
Lessee, Lease, Description [Line Items]      
Impairment of right-of-use $ 32 $ 23  
Minimum      
Lessee, Lease, Description [Line Items]      
Operating lease, renewal term 1 year    
Maximum      
Lessee, Lease, Description [Line Items]      
Operating lease, renewal term 20 years    
v3.24.0.1
Leases - Components of Lease Cost (Detail) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Dec. 31, 2021
Lease, Cost [Abstract]      
Operating lease cost $ 93 $ 102 $ 98
Sublease income (7) (7) (6)
Variable lease cost 22 20 19
Total lease cost $ 108 $ 115 $ 111
v3.24.0.1
Leases - Operating Leases Information (Detail) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Dec. 31, 2021
Leases [Abstract]      
Cash paid for amounts included in the measurement of operating lease liabilities $ 119 $ 118 $ 113
ROU Assets obtained in exchange for new operating lease liabilities $ 40 $ 35 $ 137
Weighted-average remaining lease term (in years) 4 years 4 months 24 days 4 years 10 months 24 days 5 years 7 months 6 days
Weighted-average discount rate applied to operating leases (percent) 3.20% 3.10% 3.10%
v3.24.0.1
Leases - Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payment (Detail) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Leases [Abstract]    
2024 $ 118  
2025 108  
2026 89  
2027 71  
2028 20  
Thereafter 36  
Total lease payments (undiscounted) 442  
Less: Interest 28  
Present value of lease liabilities: 414  
Lease liabilities - current 108 $ 106
Lease liabilities - noncurrent $ 306 $ 368
v3.24.0.1
Segment Information - Additional Information (Detail)
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
segment
lineOfBusiness
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]  
Number of operating segments | segment 2
Number of reportable segments | segment 2
MA  
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]  
Number of lines of business | lineOfBusiness 3
MIS  
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]  
Number of lines of business | lineOfBusiness 5
v3.24.0.1
Segment Information - Financial Information by Segment (Detail) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Dec. 31, 2021
Segment Reporting Information, Operating Income (Loss) [Abstract]      
Revenue $ 5,916 $ 5,468 $ 6,218
Operating, SG&A 3,319 3,140 3,117
Adjusted Operating Income 2,597 2,328 3,101
Depreciation and amortization 373 331 257
Restructuring 87 114 0
Operating income 2,137 1,883 2,844
Eliminations      
Segment Reporting Information, Operating Income (Loss) [Abstract]      
Revenue (199) (182) (172)
Operating, SG&A (199) (182) (172)
Adjusted Operating Income 0 0 0
Depreciation and amortization 0 0 0
Restructuring 0 0 0
Operating Segments      
Segment Reporting Information, Operating Income (Loss) [Abstract]      
Revenue 5,916 5,468 6,218
MA      
Segment Reporting Information, Operating Income (Loss) [Abstract]      
Revenue 3,056 2,769 2,406
MA | Eliminations      
Segment Reporting Information, Operating Income (Loss) [Abstract]      
Revenue 13 8 7
MA | Operating Segments      
Segment Reporting Information, Operating Income (Loss) [Abstract]      
Revenue 3,069 2,777 2,413
Operating, SG&A 2,132 1,937 1,786
Adjusted Operating Income 937 840 627
Depreciation and amortization 298 250 185
Restructuring 59 49 1
MIS      
Segment Reporting Information, Operating Income (Loss) [Abstract]      
Revenue 2,860 2,699 3,812
MIS | Eliminations      
Segment Reporting Information, Operating Income (Loss) [Abstract]      
Revenue 186 174 165
MIS | Operating Segments      
Segment Reporting Information, Operating Income (Loss) [Abstract]      
Revenue 3,046 2,873 3,977
Operating, SG&A 1,386 1,385 1,503
Adjusted Operating Income 1,660 1,488 2,474
Depreciation and amortization 75 81 72
Restructuring $ 28 $ 65 $ (1)
v3.24.0.1
Segment Information - Cumulative Restructuring Expense (Details) - 2022 - 2023 Geolocation Restructuring Program
$ in Millions
Dec. 31, 2023
USD ($)
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]  
Cumulative expense incurred $ 200
MA  
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]  
Cumulative expense incurred 108
MIS  
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]  
Cumulative expense incurred $ 92
v3.24.0.1
Segment Information - Consolidated Revenue Information by Geographic Area (Detail) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Dec. 31, 2021
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]      
Revenue $ 5,916 $ 5,468 $ 6,218
Long-lived assets 8,885 8,897 9,251
U.S.      
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]      
Revenue 3,098 2,873 3,383
Long-lived assets 4,323 4,408 4,449
Non-U.S.      
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]      
Revenue 2,818 2,595 2,835
Long-lived assets 4,562 4,489 4,802
EMEA      
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]      
Revenue 1,848 1,682 1,885
Asia-Pacific      
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]      
Revenue 577 556 603
Americas      
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]      
Revenue $ 393 $ 357 $ 347
v3.24.0.1
Valuation and Qualifying Accounts - Summary of Activity for Valuation Allowances (Detail) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Dec. 31, 2021
Dec. 31, 2020
SEC Schedule, 12-09, Valuation and Qualifying Accounts [Abstract]        
Accounts Receivable, Allowance for Credit Loss, Current $ (35) $ (40) $ (32) $ (34)
Accounts Receivable, Credit Loss Expense (Reversal) (22) (25) (13)  
Deductions, accounts receivable allowance 27 17 15  
Deferred Tax Assets, Valuation Allowance (24) (21) (18) $ (15)
Valuation Allowance, Deferred Tax Asset, Increase (Decrease), Amount (2) (4) (4)  
Deductions, deferred tax assets valuation allowance $ (1) $ 1 $ 1  
v3.24.0.1
Components of Other Non-Operating (Expense) Income, Net (Detail) - USD ($)
$ in Millions
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Dec. 31, 2022
Dec. 31, 2021
Other Income and Expenses [Abstract]      
FX (loss) gain $ (30) $ (10) $ (1)
Purchase price hedge loss 0 0 (13)
Net periodic pension income - non-service and non-interest cost components 35 24 9
Income from investments in non-consolidated affiliates 19 17 60
Gain (loss) on investments 14 (14) 13
Other 11 21 14
Total 49 38 82
Loss recorded pursuant to an immaterial out-of-period adjustment, net of tax 23    
FX translation losses reclassified to net income 0 20 0
Non-cash gain related to minority interest in Bitsight $ 4 $ 0 $ 36