SEI Investments (SEIC) has drawn fresh attention after reporting second quarter 2026 results that showed higher revenue but lower net income and earnings per share compared with the same period a year earlier.

SEI Investments shares have gained momentum recently, with a 30 day share price return of 13.96% and a year to date share price return of 25.52%. The 5 year total shareholder return of 79.07% points to a strong long term outcome despite the mixed second quarter earnings and ongoing buybacks.

If this mix of earnings reactions and buybacks has you thinking about where else capital might be working hard, it could be a good time to scan 19 top founder-led companies

After a sharp move in SEI Investments on mixed earnings and a long running buyback, the real tension now sits in the valuation. Has the recent climb already captured most of the opportunity, or is there still meaningful upside ahead?

Most Popular Narrative: 16% Undervalued

At a last close of $104.19, the most followed narrative for SEI Investments points to a fair value of $124. This gap focuses attention on how margins and growth might play out over time.

The rapid expansion of alternatives and CIT structures across the U.S. and EMEA, where SEI already has diversified, high end clients and strong referenceability, is increasing assets under administration and mix shifting revenue toward higher margin segments that may lift consolidated operating margins.

Want to see what sits behind that margin story? The narrative leans on steadier revenue growth, firm profit margins and a rerating in the earnings multiple. The exact mix of those levers is where the fair value case really gets interesting.

Result: Fair Value of $124 (UNDERVALUED)

However, SEI Investments still faces two key pressure points: heavier upfront spending on technology and AI, and the risk that alternatives or private credit growth cools.

Next Steps

With SEI Investments facing both clear risks and appealing rewards, it may be useful to act promptly and evaluate the situation against your own expectations using the 3 key rewards and 1 important warning sign

Looking for more investment ideas beyond SEI Investments?

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• Target potential mispricings by reviewing companies that screen well on quality and value through the 53 high quality undervalued stocks.
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• Hunt for future leaders early by scanning the screener containing 18 high quality undiscovered gems before the crowd catches on.

This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned.