Function Problems

How to Fix Excel Stocks Data Type Sign-In and Refresh Problems

Phi Hung Vo Oct 12, 2026 870 views

Question details

Users are experiencing an issue where Excel continuously requests Microsoft 365 credentials when trying to update or refresh the Stocks data type, even if they are already logged in.

How to Fix Excel Stocks Data Type Sign-In and Refresh Problems

Product: Microsoft Excel
Device & OS: not provided
Scenario: Attempting to refresh stock market data using the Stocks data type feature in an Excel workbook.
Observed behavior: Excel displays a recurring sign-in loop for Microsoft 365 credentials and fails to fetch or update the stock data. This can happen due to localized software corruption or broader Microsoft server-side outages.

Before you start

Make sure you have saved and backed up all your open Excel workbooks and verified your internet connection before initiating any Office repair procedures.

Solution 1Recommended

Run Microsoft Office Quick Repair

Use the built-in Windows repair utility to fix minor application glitches and local credential caching issues without needing a full reinstallation.

Close All Office Applications

Save your current work and ensure that all Microsoft Office programs, including Excel, Word, and Outlook, are completely closed.

Open Control Panel

Click the Windows Start menu, type 'Control Panel' in the search bar, and press Enter. Navigate to 'Programs' and select 'Programs and Features'.

Modify the Office Installation

Scroll through the list of installed applications to find your Microsoft Office or Microsoft 365 software. Right-click on it and choose 'Change'.

Execute Quick Repair

Select the 'Quick Repair' option from the prompt and click the 'Repair' button. Follow the remaining on-screen instructions to complete the process.

Administrator Privileges: You will need administrative rights on your computer to modify software installations and run the Office repair tool.

Solution 2

Perform an Online Repair for Office

If the Quick Repair does not resolve the credential loop, Online Repair will perform a more thorough fix by reinstalling missing or corrupted components.

Solution 3

Check Microsoft Service Health

If repairing Office fails and the issue affects multiple users, it is likely a widespread outage on Microsoft's end preventing data retrieval.

Free Microsoft Office alternative

Try WPS Office for Seamless Spreadsheet Management

While cloud-reliant features like Excel's Stocks data type can be disrupted by server outages and subscription loops, WPS Office provides a stable, lightweight, and free alternative for your core spreadsheet needs. Enjoy high compatibility with Microsoft formats without the constant sign-in interruptions.

1. Download WPS Office: Visit the official WPS website and click the download button for your operating system.
2. Install the Suite: Run the installer file and follow the on-screen prompts to set up WPS Office on your computer.
3. Open Your Workbooks: Launch WPS Spreadsheet and seamlessly open your existing Excel files to continue working offline or online.

Fully compatible with Microsoft Excel file formats (.xlsx, .xls, .csv)Lightweight installation that opens large datasets rapidlyFree to use with a highly familiar, easy-to-learn user interfaceWorks perfectly offline without recurring server authentication loops

microsoft office alternative - wps office

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does Excel keep repeatedly asking me to sign in when I check my Stocks?

This sign-in loop typically occurs due to a corrupted local credential cache, a mismatch between your Microsoft account and your software license, or a temporary outage with Microsoft's servers that prevents the application from authenticating your request.

Will using the Quick Repair tool delete my saved spreadsheets?

No. The Quick Repair tool only fixes the core Microsoft Office application files, registry entries, and settings. Your personal workbooks, data, and saved files will remain completely untouched and safe.

How do I know if the Excel Stocks refresh problem is on Microsoft's end?

If you have already tried both Quick Repair and Online Repair without success, and other users in your network or online forums are reporting the same issue, it is highly likely a server-side problem. You can confirm this by checking the Microsoft 365 Service Health dashboard.

Excel & Data Problems