Oracle's (ORCL) fiscal Q1 results provided near-term proof of infrastructure-as-a-service execution, but gross-margin pressure and a modest fiscal 2027 EPS raise mean more evidence is needed on GPU-as-a-service economics and visibility into infrastructure build-out before becoming more constructive on the stock, Morgan Stanley said Friday.

The gross margin was relatively underwhelming versus consensus due to capacity expansion, while continued operating leverage contributed to a 4% beat in non-GAAP operating income versus consensus and improved below-the-line numbers led to an 11% beat on non-GAAP EPS, the note added.

The fiscal Q2 revenue and cloud guidance came in ahead of consensus at $21.2 billion versus $21.07 billion and $13.4 billion versus $13.02 billion, respectively, though the $1.89 EPS midpoint came in line with Street estimates, the brokerage said.

Management expects continued Oracle Cloud Infrastructure acceleration in fiscal 2027 and gave positive commentary on upcoming OCI capacity, renewal pricing, and expected next-generation gross margin stabilization, the brokerage added.

Morgan Stanley kept an equal weight rating on Oracle with a price target of $210.

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