MSCI (NYSE:MSCI) share plunged more than 13% on Tuesday after the company reported its Q1 earnings results, with ESG new sales declining significantly, overall sales cycles being elongated, and fewer larger deals being made as clients tighten budgets. However, the sales pipeline and depth of client engagement remain steady.

Q1 EPS was $3.14, better than the Street estimate of $3.01. Revenue came in at $592.2 million, roughly in line with the Street estimate of $592.35 million.

Despite challenging macro, subscription growth was robust at 12%. However, the analysts at RBC Capital noted that they monitor the impact of sales slowdown and moderating retention on subscription growth. Positively, ABF headwinds moderate and should rebound in the second half of 2023.