What is GICs & ICB?

The system is similar to ICB ( Industry Classification Benchmark ), a classification structure maintained by FTSE Group. GICS is used as a basis for S&P and MSCI financial market indexes in which each company is assigned to a sub-industry, and to an industry, industry group, and sector, by its principal business activity.

What is an alternative to GICS?

One alternative to the GICS schema is the Industry Classification Benchmark, or ICB. The ICB was developed in 2005 by Dow Jones and FTSE, and divides the market into 11 industries, 20 supersectors and then further into sectors and subsectors. It’s now used by the NASDAQ, NYSE and other international markets.

What is the GICS methodology?

The GICS methodology has been widely accepted as an industry analysis framework for investment research, portfolio management and asset allocation. Its universal approach to industries worldwide has contributed to transparency and efficiency in the investment process, and the GICS methodology supports the trend towards sector-based investing.