The Global Industry Classification Standard (GICS^®)

• GICS^® is a four-tiered, hierarchical industry classification system. The four tiers are: Sectors, Industry Groups, Industries and Sub-Industries.
• All definitions are standardized and applied to companies globally.
• Each company is assigned a single GICS^® classification in each of the four tiers, according to its principal business activity.
• Revenues is a key factor in determining a firm’s principal business activity.
• Earnings and market perception, however, are also recognized as important and relevant information for classification purposes, and are taken into account during the annual review process.
• GICS^® is reviewed annually to ensure it remains fully representative of global market dynamics.

Learn more about the GICS^® structure & Sub-Industry definitions (XLS, 293 KB) .

• Capture and assess the impact of global, regional, or local industry trends on a portfolio.
• Compare and report on industry sector exposures versus peers or indexes.
• Pinpoint industry investment opportunities across developed and emerging markets.
• Analyze sector and industry contributions to portfolio performance.
• Construct sector-based and sector rotation investment strategies.