Morgan Stanley will boost its global research capability with a focus on analyzing the so-called disruptive technology trends such as artificial intelligence and big data, a senior executive said.

The New York-based bank announced on Wednesday that it was voted number one in Institutional Investor magazine's All-Asia Research Team annual rankings for the fourth straight year.

"As a global research house, we work hard to deliver actionable, thought-provoking insights and ideas that help our clients generate alpha. As part of this, more than ever we are focused on collaboration amongst our global teams and on analyzing disruptive technology trends such as AI and big data," said William Greene, managing director and head of Asia research for Morgan Stanley.

The Institutional Investor 2018 All-Asia Research Team Rankings reflect the opinions of 4,700 investment professionals at nearly 1,400 institutions managing an estimated $1.9 trillion in Asian equities, excluding Japan.

According to the institutional investor survey, Morgan Stanley ranked number one in equity strategy and currency and rates strategy, while remaining top position in economics, credit, small- and mid-capitalization stocks and quantitative research.

By sector, the bank ranked top in autos, banks, basic materials, industrials and telecommunications.