** J.P. Morgan raises PT on investment bank Moelis MC.N to $78 from $71; retains "hold" rating
** Shares of MC up 9.1% at $75 premarket
** Brokerage updates its model following a strong quarter, buoyed by accelerated deal activity in the form of M&A and IPOs following Liberation Day-induced market volatility
** J.P. Morgan forecasts strong earnings growth into FY27 due to confidence in sustained earnings growth and margin expansion
** Two of the eight analysts covering the stock have a "buy" or higher rating, and four "hold", and two "sell"; median PT is $78 - data compiled by LSEG
** As of last close, MC shares down 7% YTD
(Reporting by Anuj T in Bengaluru)
((anuj.t@thomsonreuters.com))