Morningstar (MORN) 10-Q 1 May 20 2020 Q1 Quarterly report Financial data

Cover page

Cover page - shares	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2020	Apr. 24, 2020
Cover [Abstract]
Document Quarterly Report	true
Entity Registrant Name	MORNINGSTAR, INC.
Entity Central Index Key	0001289419
Current Fiscal Year End Date	--12-31
Entity Filer Category	Large Accelerated Filer
Document Type	10-Q
Document Period End Date	Mar. 31, 2020
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2020
Document Fiscal Period Focus	Q1
Amendment Flag	false
Title of 12(b) Security	Common stock, no par value
Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code	IL
Document Transition Report	false
Entity File Number	000-51280
Entity Tax Identification Number	36-3297908
Entity Address, Address Line One	22 West Washington Street
Entity Address, City or Town	Chicago
Entity Address, State or Province	IL
Entity Address, Postal Zip Code	60602
Trading Symbol	MORN
Security Exchange Name	NASDAQ
City Area Code	312
Local Phone Number	696-6000
Entity Current Reporting Status	Yes
Entity Small Business	false
Entity Emerging Growth Company	false
Entity Interactive Data Current	Yes
Entity Shell Company	false
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding		42,793,123

Condensed Consolidated Statemen

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income - USD ($) shares in Millions, $ in Millions	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2020	Mar. 31, 2019
Income Statement [Abstract]
Revenue	$ 324	$ 258.9
Operating expense:
Cost of revenue	137	105.1
Sales and marketing	50.9	40
General and administrative	57.4	40.8
Depreciation and amortization	34.2	23.5
Total operating expense	279.5	209.4
Operating income	44.5	49.5
Non-operating expense, net:
Interest expense, net	(3.2)	(0.7)
Gain on sale of investments, reclassified from other comprehensive income	(0.4)	0.6
Other expense, net	(7.7)	(3.2)
Non-operating expense, net	(11.3)	(3.3)
Income before income taxes and equity in net loss of unconsolidated entities	33.2	46.2
Equity in net loss of unconsolidated entities	(0.8)	(1.5)
Income tax expense	8.5	11.5
Consolidated net income	$ 23.9	$ 33.2
Net income per share:
Basic (in dollars per share)	$ 0.56	$ 0.78
Diluted (in dollars per share)	0.55	0.77
Dividends declared (in dollars per share)	0.30	0.28
Dividends paid per common share (in dollars per share)	$ 0.30	$ 0.28
Weighted average shares outstanding:
Basic (in shares)	42.9	42.6
Diluted (in shares)	43.3	43

Condensed Consolidated Statem_2

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2020	Mar. 31, 2019
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Consolidated net income	$ 23.9	$ 33.2
Other comprehensive income (loss):
Foreign currency translation adjustment	(40.4)	3.4
Unrealized gains (losses) on securities, net of tax:
Unrealized holding gains (losses) arising during period	(4.1)	1.9
Reclassification losses (gains) included in net income	0.3	(0.5)
Other comprehensive income (loss)	(44.2)	4.8
Comprehensive income	$ (20.3)	$ 38

Condensed Consolidated Balance

Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets - USD ($) $ in Millions	Mar. 31, 2020	Dec. 31, 2019
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	$ 322.5	$ 334.1
Investments	26.3	33.4
Accounts receivable, less allowance for credit losses of $4.8 and $4.1, respectively	184.7	188.5
Income tax receivable	5.7	6.3
Deferred commissions	17.1	16.9
Other current assets	24.4	24
Total current assets	580.7	603.2
Goodwill	1,013.2	1,039.1
Intangible assets, net	306.2	333.4
Property, equipment, and capitalized software, less accumulated depreciation and amortization of $394.7 and $377.3, respectively	149.5	154.7
Operating lease assets	147	144.8
Investments in unconsolidated entities	58.8	59.6
Deferred tax asset, net	9.8	10.7
Deferred commissions	13.6	13.5
Other assets	13.2	11.9
Total assets	2,292	2,370.9
Current liabilities:
Deferred revenue	279.1	250.1
Accrued compensation	70.2	137.5
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities	56.5	58.9
Current portion of long-term debt	11	11
Operating lease liabilities	35.9	35.8
Other current liabilities	3.7	2.5
Total current liabilities	456.4	495.8
Operating lease liabilities	136	138.7
Accrued compensation	12.7	12.1
Deferred tax liability, net	90.1	95
Long-term debt	519.4	502.1
Deferred revenue	33.3	32.2
Other long-term liabilities	11.4	11.4
Total liabilities	1,259.3	1,287.3
Morningstar, Inc. shareholders’ equity:
Common stock, no par value, 200,000,000 shares authorized, of which 42,793,123 and 42,848,359 shares were outstanding as of March 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019, respectively	0	0
Treasury stock at cost, 11,017,098 and 10,840,173 shares as of March 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019, respectively	(748.7)	(728.7)
Additional paid-in capital	657.2	655
Retained earnings	1,229	1,217.9
Accumulated other comprehensive loss:
Currency translation adjustment	(103.4)	(63)
Unrealized gain (loss) on available-for-sale investments	(1.4)	2.4
Total accumulated other comprehensive loss	(104.8)	(60.6)
Total equity	1,032.7	1,083.6
Total liabilities and equity	$ 2,292	$ 2,370.9

Condensed Consolidated Balanc_2

Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets (Parenthetical) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Mar. 31, 2020	Dec. 31, 2019
Statement of Financial Position [Abstract]
Allowance for doubtful accounts receivable	$ 4.8	$ 4.1
Accumulated depreciation and amortization	$ 394.7	$ 377.3
Common Stock, No Par Value	$ 0	$ 0
Common Stock, Shares Authorized	200,000,000	200,000,000
Common Stock, Shares, Outstanding	42,793,123	42,848,359
Treasury Stock, Shares	11,017,098	10,840,173

Condensed Consolidated Statem_3

Condensed Consolidated Statement of Equity - USD ($) $ in Millions	Total	Common Stock	Treasury Stock	Additional Paid-In Capital	Retained Earnings	Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss
Balance at Dec. 31, 2018	$ 934.7	$ 0	$ (726.8)	$ 621.7	$ 1,114.8	$ (75)
Balance (in shares) at Dec. 31, 2018		42,624,118
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity
Net income	33.2				33.2
Other comprehensive loss:
Unrealized loss on available-for-sale investments, net of income tax of $1.4	1.9					1.9
Reclassification of adjustments for gain included in net income, net of income tax	(0.5)					(0.5)
Foreign currency translation adjustment	3.4					3.4
Other comprehensive loss	4.8					4.8
Issuance of common stock related to stock-option exercises and vesting of restricted stock units, net of shares withheld for taxes on settlements of restricted stock units (in shares)		73,530
Vesting of restricted stock units, net of shares withheld for taxes on settlements of restricted stock units	(4.6)			(4.6)
Reclassification of awards previously liability-classified that were converted to equity	6.6			6.6
Adjustments to Additional Paid in Capital, Share-based Compensation, Requisite Service Period Recognition
Stock-based compensation	10			10
Common share repurchased (in shares)		(41,935)
Common shares repurchased	(4.6)		(4.6)
Dividends declared	(11.9)				(11.9)
Balance at Mar. 31, 2019	968.2	$ 0	(731.4)	633.7	1,136.1	(70.2)
Balance (in shares) at Mar. 31, 2019		42,655,713
Balance at Dec. 31, 2019	$ 1,083.6	$ 0	(728.7)	655	1,217.9	(60.6)
Balance (in shares) at Dec. 31, 2019	42,848,359	42,848,359
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity
Net income	$ 23.9				23.9
Other comprehensive loss:
Unrealized loss on available-for-sale investments, net of income tax of $1.4	(4.1)					(4.1)
Reclassification of adjustments for gain included in net income, net of income tax	0.3					0.3
Foreign currency translation adjustment	(40.4)					(40.4)
Other comprehensive loss	(44.2)					(44.2)
Issuance of common stock related to stock-option exercises and vesting of restricted stock units, net of shares withheld for taxes on settlements of restricted stock units (in shares)		121,689
Vesting of restricted stock units, net of shares withheld for taxes on settlements of restricted stock units	(10.6)	$ 0	0	(10.6)
Reclassification of awards previously liability-classified that were converted to equity	5.5	$ 0	0	5.5	0	0
Adjustments to Additional Paid in Capital, Share-based Compensation, Requisite Service Period Recognition
Stock-based compensation	7.3			7.3
Common share repurchased (in shares)		(176,925)
Common shares repurchased	(20)		(20)
Dividends declared	(12.8)				(12.8)
Balance at Mar. 31, 2020	$ 1,032.7	$ 0	$ (748.7)	$ 657.2	$ 1,229	$ (104.8)
Balance (in shares) at Mar. 31, 2020	42,793,123	42,793,123

Condensed Consolidated Statem_4

Condensed Consolidated Statement of Equity (Parenthetical) - $ / shares	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2020	Mar. 31, 2019
Statement of Stockholders' Equity [Abstract]
Dividends declared (in dollars per share)	$ 0.30	$ 0.28

Condensed Consolidated Statem_5

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2020	Mar. 31, 2019
Operating activities
Consolidated net income	$ 23.9	$ 33.2
Adjustments to reconcile consolidated net income to net cash flows from operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization	34.2	23.5
Deferred income taxes	0.9	(0.4)
Stock-based compensation expense	7.3	10
Provision for bad debt	1.5	0.5
Equity in net loss of unconsolidated entities	0.8	1.5
Other, net	9	3.2
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:
Accounts receivable	(2.3)	(2)
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities	(1.4)	(3.5)
Accrued compensation and deferred commissions	(60)	(47.8)
Income taxes, current	0.7	8.5
Deferred revenue	36.1	37.9
Other assets and liabilities	(2)	(5.6)
Cash provided by operating activities	48.7	59
Investing activities
Purchases of investment securities	(13.3)	(8.9)
Proceeds from maturities and sales of investment securities	14	8.9
Capital expenditures	(15.1)	(18.7)
Acquisitions, net of cash acquired	4.5	0
Purchases of equity- and cost-method investments	(0.5)	(1.1)
Other, net	(0.1)	0.3
Cash used for investing activities	(19.5)	(19.5)
Financing activities
Common shares repurchased	(20)	(4.9)
Dividends paid	(12.9)	(11.9)
Proceeds from long-term debt	55	0
Repayment of long-term debt	(37.8)	(40)
Proceeds from stock-option exercises	0.1	0
Employee taxes paid from withholding of restricted stock units	(10.7)	(4.6)
Other, net	(0.6)	0.7
Cash used for financing activities	(26.9)	(60.7)
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents	(13.9)	1
Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents	(11.6)	(20.2)
Cash and cash equivalents—beginning of period	334.1	369.3
Cash and cash equivalents—end of period	322.5	349.1
Supplemental disclosure of cash flow information:
Cash paid for income taxes	6.8	3.4
Cash paid for interest	3.7	1.1
Supplemental information of non-cash investing and financing activities:
Unrealized gain (loss) on available-for-sale investments	$ (5.1)	$ 2

Basis of Presentation of Interi

Basis of Presentation of Interim Financial Information	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2020
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]
Basis of Presentation of Interim Financial Information	Basis of Presentation of Interim Financial Information The accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements of Morningstar, Inc. and subsidiaries (Morningstar, we, our, the Company) have been prepared to conform to the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States (U.S. GAAP) requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amount of assets, liabilities, revenue, and expenses. Actual results could differ from those estimates. In the opinion of management, the statements reflect all adjustments, which are of a normal recurring nature, necessary to present fairly our financial position, results of operations, equity, and cash flows. These financial statements and notes are unaudited and should be read in conjunction with our Audited Consolidated Financial Statements and Notes thereto included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2019 , filed with the SEC on March 2, 2020 (our Annual Report). The acronyms that appear in the Notes to our Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements refer to the following: ASC: Accounting Standards Codification ASU: Accounting Standards Update FASB: Financial Accounting Standards Board COVID-19 Update We are closely monitoring the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on all aspects of our business and geographies, including how it will affect team members, customers, suppliers, and global markets. Since the situation surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic remains fluid, we are actively managing our response and have assessed potential impacts to our financial position and operating results related to our consolidated financial statements for the three months ended March 31, 2020. On March 27, 2020, the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act was signed into law. The CARES Act provides a substantial stimulus and assistance package intended to address the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, including tax relief and government loans, grants and investments. The CARES Act had no impact on our consolidated financial statements for the three months ended March 31, 2020. We continue to monitor any effects that may result from the CARES Act and other similar legislation or actions in geographies in which our business operates.

Summary of Significant Accounti

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2020
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies	Summary of Significant Accounting Policies We discuss our other significant accounting policies in Note 2 of our Audited Consolidated Financial Statements included in our Annual Report. Recently adopted accounting pronouncements Current Expected Credit Losses : On June 16, 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-13, Financial Instruments-Credit Losses (Topic 326) : Measurement of Credit Losses on Financial Instruments (ASU No. 2016-13) , which requires that expected credit losses relating to financial assets measured on an amortized cost basis and available-for-sale debt securities be recorded through an allowance for credit losses. ASU No. 2016-13 limits the amount of credit losses to be recognized for available-for-sale debt securities to the amount by which carrying value exceeds fair value and requires the reversal of previously recognized credit losses if fair value increases. On April 25, 2019, the FASB issued ASU No. 2019-04, Codification Improvements (ASU No. 2019-04), which clarifies certain aspects of accounting for credit losses. On May 15, 2019, the FASB issued ASU No. 2019-05, Financial Instruments-Credit Losses (Topic 326) : Targeted Transition Relief (ASU No. 2019-05), which allows entities to elect the fair value option on certain financial instruments. The new standard became effective for us on January 1, 2020 and was applied prospectively. As a result of the adoption of these standards, we made changes to our processes for the assessment of the adequacy of our allowance for credit losses on certain types of financial instruments, including accounts receivable. The adoption of ASU No. 2016-13, ASU No. 2019-04, and ASU No. 2019-05 did not have a material impact on the consolidated financial statements, related disclosures, and results of operations. Cloud Computing : On August 29, 2018, the FASB issued ASU No. 2018-15, Customer's Accounting for Fees Paid in a Cloud Computing Arrangement , which helps entities evaluate the accounting for fees paid by a customer in a cloud computing arrangement (CCA) by providing guidance for determining when an arrangement includes a software license and when an arrangement is solely a hosted CCA service. The Company adopted this guidance prospectively beginning on January 1, 2020. Upon adoption, fees paid in a CCA will be evaluated for capitalization as a prepaid asset and expensed within the results of operations in the same financial statement line item as software license fees instead of depreciation and amortization expense. The adoption of this ASU did not have a material impact on the consolidated financial statements, related disclosures, and results of operations. Disclosure Framework - Changes to the Disclosure Requirements for Fair Value Measurement: On August 28, 2018, the FASB issued ASU No. 2018-13 , Fair Value Measurement (Topic 820): Disclosure Framework - Changes to the Disclosure Requirements for Fair Value Measurement (ASU No. 2018-13) , which eliminates, adds, and modifies certain disclosure requirements around items such as transfers between Level 1 and 2, policy of timing of transfers, and valuation process for Level 3. The new standard became effective for us on January 1, 2020. As we only have Level 1 investments, the adoption of ASU No. 2018-13 had no impact on our consolidated financial statements and related disclosures. Recently issued accounting pronouncements not yet adopted Income Taxes: On December 18, 2019, the FASB issued ASU No. 2019-12, Simplifying the Accounting for Income Taxes , which is intended to simplify the accounting for income taxes by removing certain exceptions to the general principles of ASC 740, Income Taxes, and providing for simplification in several other areas. The new standard is effective for us on January 1, 2021. Early adoption is permitted. We have not decided on early adoption and are evaluating the effect that ASU No. 2019-12 may have on our consolidated financial statements, related disclosures, and results of operations. Reference Rate Reform : On March 12, 2020, the FASB issued ASU No. 2020-04: Facilitation of the Effects of Reference Rate Reform on Financial Reporting (Topic 848), which provides temporary optional expedients and exceptions for applying generally accepted accounting principles to contract modifications resulting from reference rate reform initiatives. The intention of the standard is to ease the potential accounting and financial reporting burden associated with transitioning away from the expiring London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR), and other interbank offered rates, to alternative benchmark rates. This guidance is temporary and only in effect during the reference rate transition period through December 31, 2022. We are evaluating the effect that ASU No. 2020-04 may have on our consolidated financial statements, related disclosures, and results of operations.

Credit Arrangements

Credit Arrangements	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2020
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
Credit Arrangements	Credit Arrangements Debt The following table summarizes our total debt and long-term debt as of March 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019 . (in millions) As of March 31, 2020 As of December 31, 2019 Term Facility, net of unamortized debt issuance costs of $1.2 millio n and $1.3 million $ 440.4 $ 443.1 Revolving Credit Facility 90.0 70.0 Total debt $ 530.4 $ 513.1 Less: Current portion of long-term debt, net of unamortized debt issuance costs of $0.3 million and $0.3 million 11.0 11.0 Long-term debt $ 519.4 $ 502.1 Credit Agreement In connection with the acquisition of Ratings Acquisition Corp (DBRS) on July 2, 2019, the Company entered into a new senior credit agreement (the Credit Agreement). The Credit Agreement provides the Company with a five-year multi-currency credit facility with an initial borrowing capacity of up to $750.0 million , including a $300.0 million revolving credit facility (the Revolving Credit Facility) and a term loan facility of $450.0 million (the Term Facility). The Credit Agreement also provides for the issuance of up to $50.0 million of letters of credit and a $100.0 million sub-limit for a swingline facility under the Revolving Credit Facility. The Credit Agreement will expire on July 2, 2024. As of March 31, 2020 , our total outstanding debt under the Credit Agreement was $530.4 million with borrowing availability of $210.0 million under the Revolving Credit Facility. The interest rate applicable to any loan under the Credit Agreement is, at our option, either: (i) the applicable London interbank offered rate (LIBOR) plus an applicable margin for such loans, which ranges between 1.00% and 1.50% , based on our consolidated leverage ratio or (ii) the lender's base rate plus the applicable margin for such loans, which ranges between 0.00% and 0.50% , based on our consolidated leverage ratio. The proceeds of the Term Facility and initial borrowings under the Revolving Credit Facility were used to finance the acquisition of DBRS. The proceeds of future borrowings under the Revolving Credit Facility may be used for working capital, capital expenditures or any other lawful corporate purpose. The portions of deferred debt issuance costs related to the Revolving Credit Facility are included in other current and other non-current assets, and the portion of deferred debt issuance costs related to the Term Facility is reported as a reduction to the carrying amount of the Term Facility. Amortization of debt issuance costs related to the Revolving Credit Facility are amortized on a straight-line to interest expense over the term of the Credit Agreement. Amortization of debt issuance costs related to the Term Facility are amortized to interest expense using the effective interest method over the term of the Credit Agreement. Compliance with Covenants The Credit Agreement contains financial covenants under which we: (i) may not exceed a maximum consolidated leverage ratio of 3.50 to 1.00 (or 3.75 to 1.00 for the four fiscal quarters following any material acquisition (as defined in the Credit Agreement)) and (ii) are required to maintain a minimum consolidated interest coverage ratio of not less than 3.00 to 1.00. We were in compliance with the financial covenants as of March 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019 .

Acquisitions, Goodwill and Othe

Acquisitions, Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2020
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Acquisitions, Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets	Acquisitions, Goodwill, and Other Intangible Assets 2020 Acquisitions On January 31, 2020, we acquired Hueler Analytics' Stable Value Fund Comparative Universe Data and Stable Value Index (Hueler Analytics). We began consolidating the financial results of Hueler Analytics in our consolidated financial statements on January 31, 2020. 2019 Acquisitions During the first quarter of 2020, we did not record significant adjustments to the purchase price allocation related to our acquisition of DBRS, compared with the preliminary estimates disclosed in the Notes of the Audited Consolidated Financial Statements included in our Annual Report. The values assigned to various assets and liabilities in the preliminary purchase price allocation are subject to change as a result of information that may become available in the future. As of March 31, 2020, the primary areas of the preliminary purchase price allocation that are not yet finalized include current and deferred tax assets and liabilities. The following unaudited pro forma information presents a summary of our Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income for the year ended March 31, 2019 as if we had completed the acquisition as of January 1, 2019. This unaudited pro forma information is presented for illustrative purposes and is not intended to represent or be indicative of the actual results of operations or expected synergies of DBRS Morningstar that would have been achieved had the acquisition occurred at the beginning of the earliest period presented, nor is it intended to represent or be indicative of future results of operations. In calculating the pro forma information below, we included an estimate of amortization expense related to the intangible assets acquired, depreciation expense due to changes in estimated remaining useful lives of long-lived assets, and reduction in revenue as a result of the fair value adjustments to deferred revenue as well as the related income tax impacts. Unaudited Pro Forma Financial Information Three months ended (in millions, except for per share amount) March 31, 2019 Revenue $ 297.3 Operating income 49.4 Net income 28.6 Basic net income per share $ 0.67 Diluted net income per share $ 0.66 Goodwill The following table shows the changes in our goodwill balances from December 31, 2019 to March 31, 2020 : (in millions) Balance as of December 31, 2019 $ 1,039.1 Foreign currency translation (25.9 ) Balance as of March 31, 2020 $ 1,013.2 We did not record any impairment losses in the first three months of 2020 and 2019 . We perform our annual impairment reviews in the fourth quarter or when impairment indicators and triggering events are identified. Intangible Assets The following table summarizes our intangible assets: As of March 31, 2020 As of December 31, 2019 (in millions) Gross Accumulated Amortization Net Weighted Average Useful Life (years) Gross Accumulated Amortization Net Weighted Average Useful Life (years) Customer-related assets 362.0 (134.3 ) 227.7 11 377.9 (130.3 ) 247.6 11 Technology-based assets 164.4 (115.6 ) 48.8 7 163.7 (112.0 ) 51.7 7 Intellectual property & other 65.6 (35.9 ) 29.7 8 69.3 (35.2 ) 34.1 8 Total intangible assets $ 592.0 $ (285.8 ) $ 306.2 9 $ 610.9 $ (277.5 ) $ 333.4 10 The following table summarizes our amortization expense related to intangible assets: Three months ended March 31, (in millions) 2020 2019 Amortization expense $ 14.0 $ 4.9 We amortize intangible assets using the straight-line method over their expected economic useful lives. We expect intangible amortization expense for the remainder of 2020 and subsequent years to be as follows: (in millions) Remainder of 2020 (from April 1 through December 31) $ 39.0 2021 49.6 2022 41.6 2023 37.8 2024 32.2 Thereafter 106.0 Total $ 306.2 Our estimates of future amortization expense for intangible assets may be affected by additional acquisitions, divestitures, changes in the estimated average useful lives, impairments, and foreign currency translation.

Income Per Share

Income Per Share	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2020
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Income Per Share	Income Per Share The following table shows how we reconcile our net income and the number of shares used in computing basic and diluted net income per share: Three months ended March 31, (in millions, except share and per share amounts) 2020 2019 Basic net income per share: Consolidated net income $ 23.9 $ 33.2 Weighted average common shares outstanding 42.9 42.6 Basic net income per share $ 0.56 $ 0.78 Diluted net income per share: Consolidated net income $ 23.9 $ 33.2 Weighted average common shares outstanding 42.9 42.6 Net effect of dilutive stock options, restricted stock units, performance share awards, and market stock units 0.4 0.4 Weighted average common shares outstanding for computing diluted income per share 43.3 43.0 Diluted net income per share $ 0.55 $ 0.77 During the periods presented, the number of anti-dilutive restricted stock units, performance share awards, or market stock units to exclude from our calculation of diluted earnings per share was immaterial.

Revenue

Revenue	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2020
Revenue from Contract with Customer [Abstract]
Revenue	Revenue Disaggregation of Revenue The following table presents our revenue disaggregated by revenue type. Sales and usage-based taxes are excluded from revenue. Three months ended March 31, (in millions) 2020 2019 License-based $ 216.0 $ 195.5 Asset-based 57.2 48.8 Transaction-based 50.8 14.6 Consolidated revenue $ 324.0 $ 258.9 License-based performance obligations are generally satisfied over time as the customer has access to the product or service during the term of the subscription license and the level of service is consistent during the contract period. License-based agreements typically have a term of 12 to 36 months . License-based revenue is generated from the sale of Morningstar Data, Morningstar Direct, Morningstar Advisor Workstation, PitchBook, and other similar product lines. Asset-based performance obligations are satisfied over time as the customer receives continuous access to a service for the term. Asset-based arrangements typically have a term of 12 to 36 months . Asset-based fees represent variable consideration and the customer does not make separate purchasing decisions that result in additional performance obligations. Significant changes in the underlying fund assets and significant disruptions in the market are evaluated to determine whether estimates of earned asset-based fees need to be revised for the current quarter. The timing of client asset reporting and the structure of our contracts results in a one-quarter lag between market movements and the impact on earned revenue. An estimate of variable consideration is included in the initial transaction price only to the extent it is probable that a significant reversal in the amount of the revenue recognized will not occur. Estimates of asset-based fees are based on the most recently completed quarter and, as a result, it is unlikely a significant reversal of revenue would occur. Asset-based revenue is generated by Investment Management, Workplace Solutions, and Morningstar Indexes. Transaction-based performance obligations are satisfied when the product or service is completed or delivered. Transaction-based revenue is generated by DBRS Morningstar, Internet advertising, and conferences. DBRS Morningstar revenue includes revenue from surveillance services, which is recognized over time, as the customer has access to the service during the surveillance period. Contract liabilities Our contract liabilities represent deferred revenue. We record contract liabilities when cash payments are received or due in advance of our performance, including amounts which are refundable. The contract liabilities balance for the three months ended March 31, 2020 had a net increase of $30.1 million , primarily driven by cash payments received or payable in advance of satisfying our performance obligations. We recognized $116.8 million of revenue in the three-month period ended March 31, 2020 that was included in the contract liabilities balance as of December 31, 2019 . We expect to recognize revenue related to our contract liabilities for the remainder of 2020 and subsequent years as follows: (in millions) As of March 31, 2020 Remainder of 2020 (from April 1 through December 31) $ 411.4 2021 162.0 2022 64.8 2023 16.5 2024 9.7 Thereafter 54.7 Total $ 719.1 The aggregate amount of revenue we expect to recognize for the remainder of 2020 and subsequent years is higher than our contract liability balance of $312.4 million as of March 31, 2020. The difference represents the value of future obligations for signed contracts where we have not yet begun to satisfy the performance obligations or have not yet billed the customer. The table above does not include variable consideration for unsatisfied performance obligations related to certain of our license-based, asset-based, and transaction-based contracts as of March 31, 2020. We are applying the optional exemption available under ASC Topic 606, as the variable consideration relates to these unsatisfied performance obligations being fulfilled as a series. The performance obligations related to these contracts are expected to be satisfied over the next 12 to 36 months as services are provided to the client. For license-based contracts, the consideration received for services performed is based on the number of future users, which is not known until the services are performed. The variable consideration for this revenue can be affected by the number of user licenses, which cannot be reasonably estimated. For asset-based contracts, the consideration received for services performed is based on future asset values, which are not known until the services are performed. The variable consideration for this revenue can be affected by changes in the underlying value of fund assets due to client redemptions, additional investments, or movements in the market. For transaction-based contracts for Internet advertising, the consideration received for services performed is based on the number of impressions, which is not known until the impressions are created. The variable consideration for this revenue can be affected by the timing and quantity of impressions in any given period and cannot be reasonably estimated. As of March 31, 2020, the table above also does not include revenue for unsatisfied performance obligations related to certain of our license-based and transaction-based contracts with durations of one year or less since we are applying the optional exemption under ASC Topic 606. For certain license-based contracts, the remaining performance obligation is expected to be less than one year based on the corresponding subscription terms. For transaction-based contracts, such as new credit rating issuances and conferences, the related performance obligations are expected to be satisfied within the next 12 months. Contract Assets Our contract assets represent accounts receivable, less allowance for credit losses and deferred commissions. We did not record any impairment losses on receivables or deferred commissions in the first three months of 2020 . The following table summarizes our contract assets balance: (in millions) As of March 31, 2020 As of December 31, 2019 Accounts receivable, less allowance for credit losses $ 184.7 $ 188.5 Deferred commissions 30.7 30.4 Total contract assets $ 215.4 $ 218.9

Segment and Geographical Area I

Segment and Geographical Area Information	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2020
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Segment and Geographical Area Information	Segment and Geographical Area Information Segment Information We report our results in a single reportable segment, which reflects how our chief operating decision maker allocates resources and evaluates our financial results. Because we have a single reportable segment, all required financial segment information can be found directly in the Consolidated Financial Statements. The accounting policies for our reportable segment are the same as those described in Note 2 of the Audited Consolidated Financial Statements included in our Annual Report. We evaluate the performance of our reporting segment based on revenue and operating income. Geographical Area Information The tables below summarize our revenue and long-lived assets, which includes property, equipment, and capitalized software, net and operating lease assets, by geographical area: Revenue by geographical area Three months ended March 31, (in millions) 2020 2019 United States $ 234.6 $ 195.1 Asia 7.6 6.3 Australia 10.6 9.5 Canada 20.7 7.9 Continental Europe 23.0 20.4 United Kingdom 26.0 18.1 Other 1.5 1.6 Total International 89.4 63.8 Consolidated revenue $ 324.0 $ 258.9 Property, equipment, and capitalized software, net by geographical area (in millions) As of March 31, 2020 As of December 31, 2019 United States $ 127.7 $ 131.2 Asia 6.4 6.6 Australia 3.5 4.2 Canada 2.5 2.9 Continental Europe 2.4 2.3 United Kingdom 6.6 6.9 Other 0.4 0.6 Total International 21.8 23.5 Consolidated property, equipment, and capitalized software, net $ 149.5 $ 154.7 Operating lease assets by geographical area (in millions) As of March 31, 2020 As of December 31, 2019 United States $ 83.3 $ 86.4 Asia 18.9 20.2 Australia 5.6 5.8 Canada 7.3 7.5 Continental Europe 14.9 6.3 United Kingdom 16.3 17.9 Other 0.7 0.7 Total International 63.7 58.4 Consolidated operating lease assets $ 147.0 $ 144.8 The long-lived asset by geographical area does not include deferred commissions, non-current as the balance is not significant.

Fair Value Measurement of Inves

Fair Value Measurement of Investments	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2020
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Investments and Fair Value Measurements	Fair Value Measurements As of March 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019 , our investment balances totaled $26.3 million and $33.4 million

Leases

Leases	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2020
Leases [Abstract]
Leases	Leases We lease office space and certain equipment under various operating and finance leases, with most of our lease portfolio consisting of operating leases for office space. We determine whether an arrangement is, or includes, an embedded lease at contract inception. Operating lease assets and lease liabilities are recognized at the commencement date and initially measured using the present value of lease payments over the defined lease term. Lease expense is recognized on a straight-line basis over the lease term. For finance leases, we also recognize a finance lease asset and finance lease liability at inception, with lease expense recognized as interest expense and amortization. A contract is or contains an embedded lease if the contract meets all the below criteria: • There is an identified asset; • We obtain substantially all the economic benefits of the asset; and • We have the right to direct the use of the asset. For initial measurement of the present value of lease payments and for subsequent measurement of lease modifications, we are required to use the rate implicit in the lease. However, as most of our leases do not provide an implicit rate, we use our incremental borrowing rate, which is a collateralized rate. To apply the incremental borrowing rate, we used a portfolio approach and grouped leases based on similar lease terms in a manner whereby we reasonably expect that the application does not differ materially from a lease-by-lease approach. Our leases have remaining lease terms of approximately 1 year to 14 years , which may include the option to extend the lease when it is reasonably certain we will exercise that option. We do not have lease agreements with residual value guarantees, sale leaseback terms, or material restrictive covenants. Leases with an initial term of 12 months or less are not recognized on the balance sheet. We recognize lease expense for these leases on a straight-line basis over the lease term. The following table summarizes our operating lease assets and lease liabilities: Leases (in millions) Classification on the Balance Sheet As of March 31, 2020 As of December 31, 2019 Assets Operating Operating Lease Assets $ 147.0 $ 144.8 Liabilities Operating Operating lease liabilities, current $ 35.9 $ 35.8 Operating Operating lease liabilities, non-current 136.0 138.7 Total lease liabilities $ 171.9 $ 174.5 Our operating lease expense for the three months ended March 31, 2020 was $9.7 million , compared with $7.9 million for the same period in the prior year. Charges related to our operating leases that are variable, and therefore not included in the measurement of the lease liabilities were $3.4 million for the three months ended March 31, 2020 and $2.6 million for the three months ended March 31, 2019. We made lease payments of $10.5 million during the three months ended March 31, 2020 , compared with $6.2 million of payments during the same period in 2019. The following table shows our minimum future lease commitments due in each of the next five years and thereafter for operating leases: Minimum Future Lease Commitments (in millions) Operating Leases Remainder of 2020 (April 1 through December 31) $ 31.4 2021 39.2 2022 26.1 2023 23.6 2024 18.3 Thereafter 60.8 Total lease payments 199.4 Adjustment for discount to present value 27.5 Total $ 171.9 The following table summarizes the weighted-average lease terms and weighted-average discount rates for our operating leases: As of March 31, 2020 Weighted-average remaining lease term (in years) 6.7 Weighted-average discount rate 4.2 %

Stock-Based Compensation

Stock-Based Compensation	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2020
Share-based Payment Arrangement [Abstract]
Stock-Based Compensation	Stock-Based Compensation Stock-Based Compensation Plans All our employees and our non-employee directors are eligible for awards under the Morningstar 2011 Stock Incentive Plan, which provides for a variety of stock-based awards, including stock options, restricted stock units, performance share awards, market stock units, and restricted stock. The following table summarizes the stock-based compensation expense included in each of our operating expense categories: Three months ended March 31, (in millions) 2020 2019 Cost of revenue $ 2.4 $ 3.1 Sales and marketing 1.0 1.4 General and administrative 3.9 5.5 Total stock-based compensation expense $ 7.3 $ 10.0 As of March 31, 2020 , the total unrecognized stock-based compensation cost related to outstanding restricted stock units, performance share awards, and market stock units expected to vest was $48.8 million , which we expect to recognize over a weighted average period of 26 months .

Income Taxes

Income Taxes	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2020
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Income Taxes	Income Taxes Effective Tax Rate The following table shows our effective tax rate for the three months ended March 31, 2020 and March 31, 2019 : Three months ended March 31, (in millions) 2020 2019 Income before income taxes and equity in net loss of unconsolidated entities $ 33.2 $ 46.2 Equity in net loss of unconsolidated entities (0.8 ) (1.5 ) Total $ 32.4 $ 44.7 Income tax expense $ 8.5 $ 11.5 Effective tax rate 26.2 % 25.7 % Our effective tax rate in the first quarter of 2020 was 26.2% , an increase of 0.5 percentage points, compared with the same period in the prior year. Unrecognized Tax Benefits The table below provides information concerning our gross unrecognized tax benefits as of March 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019 , as well as the effect these gross unrecognized tax benefits would have on our income tax expense, if they were recognized. (in millions) As of March 31, 2020 As of December 31, 2019 Gross unrecognized tax benefits $ 12.9 $ 12.6 Gross unrecognized tax benefits that would affect income tax expense $ 12.9 $ 12.6 Decrease in income tax expense upon recognition of gross unrecognized tax benefits $ 12.7 $ 12.4 Our Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets include the following liabilities for unrecognized tax benefits. These amounts include interest and penalties, less any associated tax benefits. Liabilities for Unrecognized Tax Benefits (in millions) As of March 31, 2020 As of December 31, 2019 Current liability $ 11.0 $ 10.8 Non-current liability 3.2 3.0 Total liability for unrecognized tax benefits $ 14.2 $ 13.8 Because we conduct business globally, we file income tax returns in U.S. federal, state, local, and foreign jurisdictions. We are currently under audit by federal, state, and local tax authorities in the U.S. as well as tax authorities in certain non-U.S. jurisdictions. It is likely that the examination phase of some of these federal, state, local, and non-U.S. audits will conclude in 2020 . It is not possible to estimate the effect of current audits on previously recorded unrecognized tax benefits. Approximately 70% of our cash, cash equivalents, and investments balance as of March 31, 2020 was held by our operations outside of the United States. We generally consider our U.S. directly owned foreign subsidiary earnings to be permanently reinvested. We believe that our cash balances and investments in the United States, along with cash generated from our U.S. operations, will be sufficient to meet our U.S. operating and cash needs for the foreseeable future, without requiring us to repatriate earnings from these foreign subsidiaries. Certain of our non-U.S. operations have incurred net operating losses (NOLs), which may become deductible to the extent these operations become profitable. For each of our operations, we evaluate whether it is more likely than not that the tax benefits related to NOLs will be realized. As part of this evaluation, we consider evidence such as tax planning strategies, historical operating results, forecasted taxable income, and recent financial performance. In the year that certain non-U.S. operations record a loss, we do not recognize a corresponding tax benefit, which increases our effective tax rate. Upon determining that it is more likely than not that the NOLs will be realized, we reduce the tax valuation allowances related to these NOLs, which results in a reduction to our income tax expense and our effective tax rate in the period.

Contingencies

Contingencies	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2020
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Contingencies	Contingencies We record accrued liabilities for litigation, regulatory, and other business matters when those matters represent loss contingencies that are both probable and estimable. In these cases, there may be an exposure to loss in excess of any amounts accrued. When a loss contingency is not both probable and estimable, we do not establish an accrued liability. As litigation, regulatory, or other business matters develop, we evaluate whether such matters present a loss contingency that is probable and estimable on an ongoing basis. Data Audits and Reviews In our global data business, we include in our products, or directly redistribute to our customers, data, and information licensed from third-party vendors. Our compliance with the terms of these licenses is reviewed internally and is also subject to audit by the third-party vendors. We are undergoing several such internal reviews and third-party vendor audits and the results and findings of which may indicate that we may be required to make a payment for prior data usage. Due to a lack of available information and data, as well as potential variations of any audit or internal review findings, we are not able to reasonably estimate a possible loss, or range of losses for some matters. While we cannot predict the outcome of these processes, we do not believe the results of any audits or reviews will have a material adverse effect on our business, operating results, or financial position. Credit Ratings Matters In November 2019, Morningstar Credit Ratings, LLC (“MCR”) reached an agreement in principle with the staff of the SEC to settle an investigation relating to certain sales and marketing practices at MCR's asset-backed securities group in 2015 and 2016. Assuming it is approved by the full Commission, the proposed settlement would involve a censure, a cease-and-desist order, certain undertakings by MCR, and a civil money penalty of $3.5 million , which was accrued as of December 31, 2019. The settlement remains subject to approval by the SEC. In April 2020, in an unrelated matter, the staff of the SEC notified MCR that they had reached a preliminary decision to recommend that the Commission authorize an enforcement action related to MCR’s former commercial mortgage-backed securities ratings methodology. MCR intends to make a written submission to the staff responding to its recommendation. At this time, we do not believe any result will have a material adverse effect on our business, operating results, or financial position. Other Matters We are involved from time to time in regulatory investigations and legal proceedings that arise in the normal course of our business. While it is difficult to predict the outcome of any particular investigation or proceeding, we do not believe the result of any of these matters will have a material adverse effect on our business, operating results, or financial position.

Share Repurchase Program

Share Repurchase Program	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2020
Equity [Abstract]
Share Repurchase Program	Share Repurchase Program In December 2017, the board of directors approved a share repurchase program that authorizes the Company to repurchase up to $500.0 million in shares of the Company's outstanding common stock effective January 1, 2018. The authorization expires on December 31, 2020. We may repurchase shares from time to time at prevailing market prices on the open market or in private transactions in amounts that we deem appropriate. As of March 31, 2020 , we repurchased a total of 421,105 shares for $45.6 million under this program, leaving approximately $454.4 million

Subsequent Events (Notes)

Subsequent Events (Notes)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2020
Subsequent Events [Abstract]
Subsequent Events	Subsequent Events Acquisition of PlanPlus Global On April 1, 2020, we completed our previously announced acquisition of PlanPlus Global, a financial-planning and risk-profiling software firm. The acquisition expands our financial-planning capabilities for advisors. Acquisition of Sustainalytics On April 21, 2020, we announced it reached an agreement to acquire Sustainalytics, a globally recognized leader in environmental, social, and governance (ESG) ratings and research. The Company currently owns an approximate 40% ownership stake in Sustainalytics, first acquired in 2017, and will purchase the remaining approximate 60% of Sustainalytics shares upon closing of the transaction. The transaction consideration includes a cash payment at closing of approximately EUR 55.0 million (subject to certain potential adjustments) and additional cash payments in 2021 and 2022 based on a multiple of Sustainalytics’ 2020 and 2021 fiscal year revenues. Based on the upfront consideration, the Company estimates the enterprise value of Sustainalytics to be EUR 170.0 million . The closing of the transaction is subject to customary closing conditions and is expected to occur early in the third quarter of 2020. Senior Revolving Credit Facility On April 21, 2020, we entered into a commitment with Bank of America to provide a 364-day senior revolving credit facility in an aggregate principal amount of up to $50.0 million , which is expected to close early in the third quarter of 2020. The proceeds of our borrowing under the new facility will be used to finance our acquisition of Sustainalytics and the proceeds of future borrowings may be used for working capital, capital expenditures, and any other lawful corporate purpose.

Summary of Significant Accoun_2

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Policies)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2020
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Recent Accounting Pronouncements Policy	Recently adopted accounting pronouncements Current Expected Credit Losses : On June 16, 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-13, Financial Instruments-Credit Losses (Topic 326) : Measurement of Credit Losses on Financial Instruments (ASU No. 2016-13) , which requires that expected credit losses relating to financial assets measured on an amortized cost basis and available-for-sale debt securities be recorded through an allowance for credit losses. ASU No. 2016-13 limits the amount of credit losses to be recognized for available-for-sale debt securities to the amount by which carrying value exceeds fair value and requires the reversal of previously recognized credit losses if fair value increases. On April 25, 2019, the FASB issued ASU No. 2019-04, Codification Improvements (ASU No. 2019-04), which clarifies certain aspects of accounting for credit losses. On May 15, 2019, the FASB issued ASU No. 2019-05, Financial Instruments-Credit Losses (Topic 326) : Targeted Transition Relief (ASU No. 2019-05), which allows entities to elect the fair value option on certain financial instruments. The new standard became effective for us on January 1, 2020 and was applied prospectively. As a result of the adoption of these standards, we made changes to our processes for the assessment of the adequacy of our allowance for credit losses on certain types of financial instruments, including accounts receivable. The adoption of ASU No. 2016-13, ASU No. 2019-04, and ASU No. 2019-05 did not have a material impact on the consolidated financial statements, related disclosures, and results of operations. Cloud Computing : On August 29, 2018, the FASB issued ASU No. 2018-15, Customer's Accounting for Fees Paid in a Cloud Computing Arrangement , which helps entities evaluate the accounting for fees paid by a customer in a cloud computing arrangement (CCA) by providing guidance for determining when an arrangement includes a software license and when an arrangement is solely a hosted CCA service. The Company adopted this guidance prospectively beginning on January 1, 2020. Upon adoption, fees paid in a CCA will be evaluated for capitalization as a prepaid asset and expensed within the results of operations in the same financial statement line item as software license fees instead of depreciation and amortization expense. The adoption of this ASU did not have a material impact on the consolidated financial statements, related disclosures, and results of operations. Disclosure Framework - Changes to the Disclosure Requirements for Fair Value Measurement: On August 28, 2018, the FASB issued ASU No. 2018-13 , Fair Value Measurement (Topic 820): Disclosure Framework - Changes to the Disclosure Requirements for Fair Value Measurement (ASU No. 2018-13) , which eliminates, adds, and modifies certain disclosure requirements around items such as transfers between Level 1 and 2, policy of timing of transfers, and valuation process for Level 3. The new standard became effective for us on January 1, 2020. As we only have Level 1 investments, the adoption of ASU No. 2018-13 had no impact on our consolidated financial statements and related disclosures. Recently issued accounting pronouncements not yet adopted Income Taxes: On December 18, 2019, the FASB issued ASU No. 2019-12, Simplifying the Accounting for Income Taxes , which is intended to simplify the accounting for income taxes by removing certain exceptions to the general principles of ASC 740, Income Taxes, and providing for simplification in several other areas. The new standard is effective for us on January 1, 2021. Early adoption is permitted. We have not decided on early adoption and are evaluating the effect that ASU No. 2019-12 may have on our consolidated financial statements, related disclosures, and results of operations. Reference Rate Reform : On March 12, 2020, the FASB issued ASU No. 2020-04: Facilitation of the Effects of Reference Rate Reform on Financial Reporting (Topic 848), which provides temporary optional expedients and exceptions for applying generally accepted accounting principles to contract modifications resulting from reference rate reform initiatives. The intention of the standard is to ease the potential accounting and financial reporting burden associated with transitioning away from the expiring London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR), and other interbank offered rates, to alternative benchmark rates. This guidance is temporary and only in effect during the reference rate transition period through December 31, 2022. We are evaluating the effect that ASU No. 2020-04 may have on our consolidated financial statements, related disclosures, and results of operations.
Segment Reporting Policy	We report our results in a single reportable segment, which reflects how our chief operating decision maker allocates resources and evaluates our financial results. Because we have a single reportable segment, all required financial segment information can be found directly in the Consolidated Financial Statements. The accounting policies for our reportable segment are the same as those described in Note 2 of the Audited Consolidated Financial Statements included in our Annual Report. We evaluate the performance of our reporting segment based on revenue and operating income.
Investments- Debt and Equity Securities Policy	We classify our investments into three categories: available-for-sale, held-to-maturity, and trading securities. Our investment portfolio consists of stocks, bonds, options, mutual funds, money market funds, or exchange-traded products that replicate the model portfolios and strategies created by Morningstar. These investment accounts may also include exchange-traded products where Morningstar is an index provider.

(Tables)

(Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2020
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
Summary of Total Debt and Long-term Debt	The following table summarizes our total debt and long-term debt as of March 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019 . (in millions) As of March 31, 2020 As of December 31, 2019 Term Facility, net of unamortized debt issuance costs of $1.2 millio n and $1.3 million $ 440.4 $ 443.1 Revolving Credit Facility 90.0 70.0 Total debt $ 530.4 $ 513.1 Less: Current portion of long-term debt, net of unamortized debt issuance costs of $0.3 million and $0.3 million 11.0 11.0 Long-term debt $ 519.4 $ 502.1

Acquisitions, Goodwill and Ot_2

Acquisitions, Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2020	Mar. 31, 2019
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Information [Table Text Block]		Unaudited Pro Forma Financial Information Three months ended (in millions, except for per share amount) March 31, 2019 Revenue $ 297.3 Operating income 49.4 Net income 28.6 Basic net income per share $ 0.67 Diluted net income per share $ 0.66
Schedule of Goodwill	The following table shows the changes in our goodwill balances from December 31, 2019 to March 31, 2020 : (in millions) Balance as of December 31, 2019 $ 1,039.1 Foreign currency translation (25.9 ) Balance as of March 31, 2020 $ 1,013.2
Schedule of Intangible Assets	The following table summarizes our intangible assets: As of March 31, 2020 As of December 31, 2019 (in millions) Gross Accumulated Amortization Net Weighted Average Useful Life (years) Gross Accumulated Amortization Net Weighted Average Useful Life (years) Customer-related assets 362.0 (134.3 ) 227.7 11 377.9 (130.3 ) 247.6 11 Technology-based assets 164.4 (115.6 ) 48.8 7 163.7 (112.0 ) 51.7 7 Intellectual property & other 65.6 (35.9 ) 29.7 8 69.3 (35.2 ) 34.1 8 Total intangible assets $ 592.0 $ (285.8 ) $ 306.2 9 $ 610.9 $ (277.5 ) $ 333.4 10
Schedule of Intangible Asset, Amortization Expense	The following table summarizes our amortization expense related to intangible assets: Three months ended March 31, (in millions) 2020 2019 Amortization expense $ 14.0 $ 4.9
Schedule of Expected Amortization Expense	We expect intangible amortization expense for the remainder of 2020 and subsequent years to be as follows: (in millions) Remainder of 2020 (from April 1 through December 31) $ 39.0 2021 49.6 2022 41.6 2023 37.8 2024 32.2 Thereafter 106.0 Total $ 306.2 Our estimates of future amortization expense for intangible assets may be affected by additional acquisitions, divestitures, changes in the estimated average useful lives, impairments, and foreign currency translation.

Income Per Share (Tables)

Income Per Share (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2020
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted	The following table shows how we reconcile our net income and the number of shares used in computing basic and diluted net income per share: Three months ended March 31, (in millions, except share and per share amounts) 2020 2019 Basic net income per share: Consolidated net income $ 23.9 $ 33.2 Weighted average common shares outstanding 42.9 42.6 Basic net income per share $ 0.56 $ 0.78 Diluted net income per share: Consolidated net income $ 23.9 $ 33.2 Weighted average common shares outstanding 42.9 42.6 Net effect of dilutive stock options, restricted stock units, performance share awards, and market stock units 0.4 0.4 Weighted average common shares outstanding for computing diluted income per share 43.3 43.0 Diluted net income per share $ 0.55 $ 0.77

Revenue (Tables)

Revenue (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2020
Revenue from Contract with Customer [Abstract]
Disaggregation of Revenue	The following table presents our revenue disaggregated by revenue type. Sales and usage-based taxes are excluded from revenue. Three months ended March 31, (in millions) 2020 2019 License-based $ 216.0 $ 195.5 Asset-based 57.2 48.8 Transaction-based 50.8 14.6 Consolidated revenue $ 324.0 $ 258.9
Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Expected Timing of Satisfaction	We expect to recognize revenue related to our contract liabilities for the remainder of 2020 and subsequent years as follows: (in millions) As of March 31, 2020 Remainder of 2020 (from April 1 through December 31) $ 411.4 2021 162.0 2022 64.8 2023 16.5 2024 9.7 Thereafter 54.7 Total $ 719.1
Summary of Contract Assets and Change in Deferred Commissions	The following table summarizes our contract assets balance: (in millions) As of March 31, 2020 As of December 31, 2019 Accounts receivable, less allowance for credit losses $ 184.7 $ 188.5 Deferred commissions 30.7 30.4 Total contract assets $ 215.4 $ 218.9

Segment and Geographical Area_2

Segment and Geographical Area Information (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2020
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Schedule of Revenue from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets, by Geographical Areas [Table Text Block]	The tables below summarize our revenue and long-lived assets, which includes property, equipment, and capitalized software, net and operating lease assets, by geographical area: Revenue by geographical area Three months ended March 31, (in millions) 2020 2019 United States $ 234.6 $ 195.1 Asia 7.6 6.3 Australia 10.6 9.5 Canada 20.7 7.9 Continental Europe 23.0 20.4 United Kingdom 26.0 18.1 Other 1.5 1.6 Total International 89.4 63.8 Consolidated revenue $ 324.0 $ 258.9 Property, equipment, and capitalized software, net by geographical area (in millions) As of March 31, 2020 As of December 31, 2019 United States $ 127.7 $ 131.2 Asia 6.4 6.6 Australia 3.5 4.2 Canada 2.5 2.9 Continental Europe 2.4 2.3 United Kingdom 6.6 6.9 Other 0.4 0.6 Total International 21.8 23.5 Consolidated property, equipment, and capitalized software, net $ 149.5 $ 154.7 Operating lease assets by geographical area (in millions) As of March 31, 2020 As of December 31, 2019 United States $ 83.3 $ 86.4 Asia 18.9 20.2 Australia 5.6 5.8 Canada 7.3 7.5 Continental Europe 14.9 6.3 United Kingdom 16.3 17.9 Other 0.7 0.7 Total International 63.7 58.4 Consolidated operating lease assets $ 147.0 $ 144.8 The long-lived asset by geographical area does not include deferred commissions, non-current as the balance is not significant.

Leases (Tables)

Leases (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2020
Leases [Abstract]
Assets and Liabilities, Lessee	The following table summarizes our operating lease assets and lease liabilities: Leases (in millions) Classification on the Balance Sheet As of March 31, 2020 As of December 31, 2019 Assets Operating Operating Lease Assets $ 147.0 $ 144.8 Liabilities Operating Operating lease liabilities, current $ 35.9 $ 35.8 Operating Operating lease liabilities, non-current 136.0 138.7 Total lease liabilities $ 171.9 $ 174.5 The following table summarizes the weighted-average lease terms and weighted-average discount rates for our operating leases: As of March 31, 2020 Weighted-average remaining lease term (in years) 6.7 Weighted-average discount rate 4.2 %
Lessee, Operating Lease, Liability, Maturity	The following table shows our minimum future lease commitments due in each of the next five years and thereafter for operating leases: Minimum Future Lease Commitments (in millions) Operating Leases Remainder of 2020 (April 1 through December 31) $ 31.4 2021 39.2 2022 26.1 2023 23.6 2024 18.3 Thereafter 60.8 Total lease payments 199.4 Adjustment for discount to present value 27.5 Total $ 171.9

Stock-Based Compensation (Table

Stock-Based Compensation (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2020
Share-based Payment Arrangement [Abstract]
Schedule Of Compensation Cost By Expense Category	The following table summarizes the stock-based compensation expense included in each of our operating expense categories: Three months ended March 31, (in millions) 2020 2019 Cost of revenue $ 2.4 $ 3.1 Sales and marketing 1.0 1.4 General and administrative 3.9 5.5 Total stock-based compensation expense $ 7.3 $ 10.0

Income Taxes (Tables)

Income Taxes (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2020
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation	The following table shows our effective tax rate for the three months ended March 31, 2020 and March 31, 2019 : Three months ended March 31, (in millions) 2020 2019 Income before income taxes and equity in net loss of unconsolidated entities $ 33.2 $ 46.2 Equity in net loss of unconsolidated entities (0.8 ) (1.5 ) Total $ 32.4 $ 44.7 Income tax expense $ 8.5 $ 11.5 Effective tax rate 26.2 % 25.7 %
Schedule of Gross Unrecognized Tax Benefits	The table below provides information concerning our gross unrecognized tax benefits as of March 31, 2020 and December 31, 2019 , as well as the effect these gross unrecognized tax benefits would have on our income tax expense, if they were recognized. (in millions) As of March 31, 2020 As of December 31, 2019 Gross unrecognized tax benefits $ 12.9 $ 12.6 Gross unrecognized tax benefits that would affect income tax expense $ 12.9 $ 12.6 Decrease in income tax expense upon recognition of gross unrecognized tax benefits $ 12.7 $ 12.4
Schedule of Liabilities for Unrecognized Tax Benefits	Our Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets include the following liabilities for unrecognized tax benefits. These amounts include interest and penalties, less any associated tax benefits. Liabilities for Unrecognized Tax Benefits (in millions) As of March 31, 2020 As of December 31, 2019 Current liability $ 11.0 $ 10.8 Non-current liability 3.2 3.0 Total liability for unrecognized tax benefits $ 14.2 $ 13.8

Summary of Significant Accoun_3

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Impact of Adoption of Topic 842) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Mar. 31, 2020	Dec. 31, 2019
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items]
Operating lease assets	$ 147	$ 144.8
Operating lease liabilities	171.9	$ 174.5
Accounting Standards Update 2016-02
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items]
Operating lease assets	$ 147

Credit Arrangements - Schedule

Credit Arrangements - Schedule of Long-term Debt (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Mar. 31, 2020	Dec. 31, 2019
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Long-term debt	$ 519.4	$ 502.1
Long-term Debt and Lease Obligation, Including Current Maturities	530.4	513.1
Long-term Debt, Current Maturities	11	11
Long-term debt	519.4	502.1
Medium-term Notes [Member] | Term Loan Facility [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Long-term debt	440.4	443.1
Revolving Credit Facility | Line of Credit [Member] | July 2019 Revolving Credit Facility [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Long-term debt	$ 90	$ 70

Credit Arrangements (Details)

Credit Arrangements (Details) - USD ($)	Jul. 02, 2019	Mar. 31, 2020	Dec. 31, 2019
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Long-term debt		$ 530,400,000
Remaining borrowing capacity		210,000,000
Long-term Debt, Current Maturities		11,000,000	$ 11,000,000
Long-term debt		$ 519,400,000	$ 502,100,000
Medium-term Notes [Member] | Term Loan Facility [Member]
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Maximum borrowing capacity	$ 450,000,000
Line of Credit [Member] | Credit Agreement [Member]
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Maximum borrowing capacity	$ 750,000,000
Debt covenant, consolidated interest coverage ratio	3
Line of Credit [Member] | Credit Agreement [Member] | Maximum [member]
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Debt covenant, consolidated leverage ratio	3.75
Line of Credit [Member] | Credit Agreement [Member] | Maximum [member] | London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) [Member]
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Basis spread on variable rate debt	1.50%
Line of Credit [Member] | Credit Agreement [Member] | Maximum [member] | Lender's base rate [Member]
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Basis spread on variable rate debt	0.50%
Line of Credit [Member] | Credit Agreement [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Debt covenant, consolidated leverage ratio	3.50
Line of Credit [Member] | Credit Agreement [Member] | Minimum [Member] | London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) [Member]
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Basis spread on variable rate debt	1.00%
Line of Credit [Member] | Credit Agreement [Member] | Minimum [Member] | Lender's base rate [Member]
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Basis spread on variable rate debt	0.00%
Line of Credit [Member] | July 2019 Revolving Credit Facility [Member] | Revolving Credit Facility
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Maximum borrowing capacity	$ 300,000,000
Line of Credit [Member] | July 2019 Revolving Credit Facility [Member] | Letters of credit [Member]
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Maximum borrowing capacity	50,000,000
Line of Credit [Member] | July 2019 Revolving Credit Facility [Member] | Revolving Credit Facility
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Maximum borrowing capacity	$ 100,000,000

Acquisitions, Goodwill and Ot_3

Acquisitions, Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets Acquisitions, Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets (Proforma Information) (Details) - DBRS $ / shares in Units, $ in Millions	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2019USD ($)$ / shares
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Revenue	$ 297.3
Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Operating Income (Loss)	49.4
Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Net Income (Loss)	$ 28.6
Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Earnings Per Share, Basic | $ / shares	$ 0.67
Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Earnings Per Share, Diluted | $ / shares	$ 0.66

Acquisitions, Goodwill and Ot_4

Acquisitions, Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets (Schedule of Goodwill) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2020	Mar. 31, 2019	Sep. 30, 2017
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Goodwill, impairment loss		$ 0	$ 0
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Goodwill, Beginning Balance	$ 1,039.1
Foreign currency translation	(25.9)
Goodwill, Ending Balance	$ 1,013.2

Acquisitions, Goodwill and Ot_5

Acquisitions, Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets (Schedule of Intangible Assets) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2020	Dec. 31, 2019
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Gross	$ 592	$ 610.9
Accumulated Amortization	(285.8)	(277.5)
Intangible assets, Net	$ 306.2	$ 333.4
Weighted-Average Useful Life (years)	9 years	10 years
Intellectual property
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Gross	$ 65.6	$ 69.3
Accumulated Amortization	35.9	35.2
Intangible assets, Net	$ 29.7	$ 34.1
Weighted-Average Useful Life (years)	8 years	8 years
Customer-related assets
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Gross	$ 362	$ 377.9
Accumulated Amortization	(134.3)	(130.3)
Intangible assets, Net	$ 227.7	$ 247.6
Weighted-Average Useful Life (years)	11 years	11 years
Intellectual property & other
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Gross	$ 164.4	$ 163.7
Accumulated Amortization	(115.6)	(112)
Intangible assets, Net	$ 48.8	$ 51.7
Weighted-Average Useful Life (years)	7 years	7 years

Acquisitions, Goodwill and Ot_6

Acquisitions, Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets (Amortization Expense) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2020	Mar. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2019
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net, Amortization Expense, Fiscal Year Maturity [Abstract]
Remainder of 2020 (from April 1 through December 31)	$ 39
2019	49.6
2020	41.6
2021	37.8
2022	32.2
Thereafter	106
Intangible assets, Net	306.2		$ 333.4
Amortization expense	$ 14	$ 4.9

Income Per Share (Details)

Income Per Share (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, shares in Millions, $ in Millions	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2020	Mar. 31, 2019
Earnings Per Share, Basic [Abstract]
Consolidated net income	$ 23.9	$ 33.2
Weighted average common shares outstanding	42.9	42.6
Basic net income per share attributable to Morningstar, Inc.	$ 0.56	$ 0.78
Earnings Per Share, Diluted [Abstract]
Consolidated net income	$ 23.9	$ 33.2
Weighted average common shares outstanding	42.9	42.6
Net effect of dilutive stock options and restricted stock units	0.4	0.4
Weighted average common shares outstanding for computing diluted income per share	43.3	43
Diluted net income per share attributable to Morningstar, Inc.	$ 0.55	$ 0.77

Revenue (Disaggregation of Reve

Revenue (Disaggregation of Revenue) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2020	Mar. 31, 2019
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Consolidated revenue	$ 324	$ 258.9
License-based
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Consolidated revenue	216	195.5
Asset-based
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Consolidated revenue	57.2	48.8
Transaction-based
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Consolidated revenue	$ 50.8	$ 14.6

Revenue (Disaggregation of Re_2

Revenue (Disaggregation of Revenue, Narrative) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2020	Mar. 31, 2019
Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Expected Timing of Satisfaction [Line Items]
Revenues	$ 324	$ 258.9
Licensed-based Revenue
Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Expected Timing of Satisfaction [Line Items]
Revenues	216	195.5
Asset-based Revenue
Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Expected Timing of Satisfaction [Line Items]
Revenues	$ 57.2	$ 48.8
Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Expected Timing of Satisfaction, Start Date [Axis]: 2020-04-01 | Minimum [Member]
Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Expected Timing of Satisfaction [Line Items]
Revenue performance period	12 months
Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Expected Timing of Satisfaction, Start Date [Axis]: 2020-04-01 | Maximum [member]
Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Expected Timing of Satisfaction [Line Items]
Revenue performance period	36 months
Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Expected Timing of Satisfaction, Start Date [Axis]: 2020-04-01 | Licensed-based Revenue | Minimum [Member]
Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Expected Timing of Satisfaction [Line Items]
Revenue performance period	12 months
Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Expected Timing of Satisfaction, Start Date [Axis]: 2020-04-01 | Licensed-based Revenue | Maximum [member]
Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Expected Timing of Satisfaction [Line Items]
Revenue performance period	36 months
Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Expected Timing of Satisfaction, Start Date [Axis]: 2020-04-01 | Asset-based Revenue | Minimum [Member]
Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Expected Timing of Satisfaction [Line Items]
Revenue performance period	12 months
Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Expected Timing of Satisfaction, Start Date [Axis]: 2020-04-01 | Asset-based Revenue | Maximum [member]
Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Expected Timing of Satisfaction [Line Items]
Revenue performance period	36 months

Revenue (Schedule of Contract L

Revenue (Schedule of Contract Liabilities) (Details) $ in Millions	Mar. 31, 2020USD ($)
Revenue from Contract with Customer [Abstract]
Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Amount	$ 719.1
Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Expected Timing of Satisfaction, Start Date [Axis]: 2020-04-01
Revenue from Contract with Customer [Abstract]
Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Amount	162
Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Expected Timing of Satisfaction, Start Date [Axis]: 2022-01-01
Revenue from Contract with Customer [Abstract]
Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Amount	64.8
Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Expected Timing of Satisfaction, Start Date [Axis]: 2023-01-01
Revenue from Contract with Customer [Abstract]
Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Amount	16.5
Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Expected Timing of Satisfaction, Start Date [Axis]: 2024-01-01
Revenue from Contract with Customer [Abstract]
Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Amount	9.7
Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Expected Timing of Satisfaction, Start Date [Axis]: 2025-01-01
Revenue from Contract with Customer [Abstract]
Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Amount	$ 54.7

Revenue (Contract Liabilities,

Revenue (Contract Liabilities, Additional Information Narrative) (Details) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2020USD ($)
Revenue from Contract with Customer [Abstract]
Increase in contract liabilities from cash payments received	$ 30.1
Contract with Customer, Liability, Change in Timeframe, Performance Obligation Satisfied, Revenue Recognized	116.8
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities	$ 312.4

Revenue (Summary of Contract As

Revenue (Summary of Contract Assets) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Mar. 31, 2020	Dec. 31, 2019
Revenue from Contract with Customer [Abstract]
Accounts receivable, less allowance for credit losses	$ 184.7	$ 188.5
Deferred commissions, current and non-current	30.7	30.4
Total contract assets	$ 215.4	$ 218.9

Segment and Geographical Area_3

Segment and Geographical Area Information (External Revenue and Long-Lived Assets) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2020	Mar. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2019
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items]
External revenue	$ 324	$ 258.9
Long-lived assets	149.5		$ 154.7
United States
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items]
External revenue	234.6	195.1
Long-lived assets	127.7		131.2
Total International
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items]
External revenue	89.4	63.8
Long-lived assets	21.8		23.5
Canada
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items]
External revenue	26	18.1
Long-lived assets	6.6		6.9
Continental Europe
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items]
External revenue	23	20.4
Long-lived assets	2.4		2.3
Australia
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items]
External revenue	10.6	9.5
Long-lived assets	3.5		4.2
Canada
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items]
External revenue	20.7	7.9
Long-lived assets	2.5		2.9
United Kingdom
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items]
External revenue	7.6	6.3
Long-lived assets	6.4		6.6
Other
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items]
External revenue	1.5	$ 1.6
Long-lived assets	$ 0.4		$ 0.6

Segment and Geographical Area_4

Segment and Geographical Area Information Segment and Geographical Area Information - Operating Lease Assets by Geographical Area (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Mar. 31, 2020	Dec. 31, 2019
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items]
Consolidated operating lease assets	$ 147	$ 144.8
United States
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items]
Consolidated operating lease assets	83.3	86.4
Total International
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items]
Consolidated operating lease assets	63.7	58.4
Canada
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items]
Consolidated operating lease assets	16.3	17.9
Continental Europe
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items]
Consolidated operating lease assets	14.9	6.3
Australia
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items]
Consolidated operating lease assets	5.6	5.8
Canada
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items]
Consolidated operating lease assets	7.3	7.5
United Kingdom
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items]
Consolidated operating lease assets	18.9	20.2
Other
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items]
Consolidated operating lease assets	$ 0.7	$ 0.7

Fair Value Measurement of Inv_2

Fair Value Measurement of Investments Fair Value Measurement of Investments - Narrative (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Mar. 31, 2020	Dec. 31, 2019
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Investment balances	$ 26.3	$ 33.4

Leases - Narrative (Details)

Leases - Narrative (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2020	Mar. 31, 2019
Lessee, Lease, Description [Line Items]
Operating lease expense	$ 9.7	$ 7.9
Variable lease, cost	3.4	2.6
Operating lease payments	$ 10.5	$ 6.2
Minimum [Member]
Lessee, Lease, Description [Line Items]
Operating lease, weighted average remaining lease term	1 year
Maximum [member]
Lessee, Lease, Description [Line Items]
Operating lease, weighted average remaining lease term	14 years

Leases - Assets and Lease Liabi

Leases - Assets and Lease Liabilities (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Mar. 31, 2020	Dec. 31, 2019
Assets
Operating lease assets	$ 147	$ 144.8
Liabilities
Operating lease liabilities	35.9	35.8
Operating lease liabilities	136	138.7
Total lease liabilities	$ 171.9	$ 174.5

Leases - Operating Lease Minimu

Leases - Operating Lease Minimum Future Lease Commitments (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Mar. 31, 2020	Dec. 31, 2019
Leases [Abstract]
Remainder of 2019	$ 31.4
2020	39.2
2021	26.1
2022	23.6
2023	18.3
Thereafter	60.8
Total lease payments	199.4
Adjustment for discount to present value	27.5
Total	$ 171.9	$ 174.5

Leases - Weighted Average Remai

Leases - Weighted Average Remaining Lease Terms and Discount Rates (Details)	Mar. 31, 2020
Weighted-average remaining lease term (in years)
Weighted-average remaining lease term (in years)	6 years 8 months 12 days
Weighted-average discount rate
Weighted-average discount rate	4.20%

Stock-Based Compensation (Alloc

Stock-Based Compensation (Allocation of Stock-Based Compensation Costs by Plan) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2020	Mar. 31, 2019
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Total stock-based compensation expense	$ 7.3	$ 10
Cost of revenue
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Total stock-based compensation expense	2.4	3.1
Sales and marketing
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Total stock-based compensation expense	1	1.4
General and administrative
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Total stock-based compensation expense	$ 3.9	$ 5.5

Stock-Based Compensation (Narra

Stock-Based Compensation (Narrative) (Details) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2020USD ($)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Document Period End Date	Mar. 31, 2020
Restricted Stock Units and Performance Share Awards
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Unrecognized stock-based compensation expense	$ 48.8
Expected amortization period (months)	26 months

Income Taxes (Income Tax Reconc

Income Taxes (Income Tax Reconciliation and Unrecognized Tax Benefits) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2020	Mar. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2019
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Amount [Abstract]
Income before income taxes and equity in net loss of unconsolidated entities	$ 33.2	$ 46.2
Equity in net loss of unconsolidated entities	(0.8)	(1.5)
Total	32.4	44.7
Income tax expense	$ 8.5	$ 11.5
Effective income tax rate	26.20%	25.70%
Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Income Tax Penalties and Interest Accrued [Abstract]
Current liability	$ 11		$ 10.8
Non-current liability	3.2		3
Total liability for unrecognized tax benefits	$ 14.2		$ 13.8
Concentration Risk [Line Items]
Respective decrease in taxes (as a percent)	0.50%
Geographic Concentration Risk | Cash, Cash Equivalents and Investments | Total International
Concentration Risk [Line Items]
Percentage of cash, cash equivalents and investments held by operations outside of US	70.00%

Income Taxes (Income Tax Contin

Income Taxes (Income Tax Contingency) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Mar. 31, 2020	Dec. 31, 2019
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Gross unrecognized tax benefits	$ 12.9	$ 12.6
Gross unrecognized tax benefits that would affect income tax expense	12.9	12.6
Decrease in income tax expense upon recognition of gross unrecognized tax benefits	$ 12.7	$ 12.4

Contingencies Contingencies (De

Contingencies Contingencies (Details) $ in Millions	1 Months Ended
	Nov. 30, 2019USD ($)
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Litigation Settlement, Amount Awarded to Other Party	$ 3.5

Share Repurchase Program (Detai

Share Repurchase Program (Details)	Mar. 31, 2020USD ($)shares
Equity [Abstract]
Share repurchase program, authorized amount	$ 500,000,000
Shares repurchased, program life to date, shares | shares	421,105
Shares repurchased, program life to date, value	$ 45,600,000
Stock repurchase program, remaining authorized repurchase amount	$ 454,400,000

Subsequent Events (Details)

Subsequent Events (Details) - Apr. 21, 2020 - Subsequent Event [Member] € in Millions, $ in Millions	EUR (€)	USD ($)
Credit Agreement [Member] | Credit Agreement [Member]
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity		$ 50
Sustainalytics_ [Member]
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Payments to Acquire Businesses, Gross | €	€ 55
Enterprise Value		$ 170