Function Problems

Why Excel STOCKHISTORY Returns Incorrect Data & How to Fix It

Maira Mehtab Sep 21, 2026 868 views

Question details

Users notice that the STOCKHISTORY function in Excel is pulling mathematically incorrect or mismatched financial data compared to other trusted platforms.

Product: Microsoft Excel
Device & OS: not provided
Scenario: Tracking stock prices and historical financial data for companies, such as FTSE 100 stocks.
Observed behavior: The function retrieves figures that differ from external sources like Google Finance or appear implausible due to underlying third-party data provider inaccuracies.

Before you start

Verify your internet connection to ensure Excel is fetching the most recent data sync, and keep a reliable secondary financial source like Google Finance or Yahoo Finance open for cross-referencing.

Solution 1Recommended

Cross-Reference and Wait for Provider Updates

Since Excel relies on a third-party data provider for financial information, temporary inaccuracies must typically be resolved on the provider's end.

Excel's STOCKHISTORY function does not generate its own data. Instead, it retrieves financial information from a third-party data provider.

When temporary inaccuracies or discrepancies occur—like incorrect figures for FTSE 100 companies—the issue usually originates from the external provider's database, meaning it is not a structural error in your spreadsheet.

Identify the discrepancy

Compare the STOCKHISTORY results in your Excel sheet with a trusted external source to confirm the data anomaly.

Allow time for correction

Since the data is externally supplied, you cannot manually correct the formula's backend source. Wait for the third-party provider to identify and push corrections for the temporary data issue.

Refresh the data connection

Periodically navigate to the Data tab on your Excel ribbon and click 'Refresh All' to force the application to pull the latest corrected information once the provider updates it.

Data Source Limitations: Microsoft acknowledges that external financial data sources may experience occasional disruptions or inaccuracies. You cannot change the default data provider in Excel.

Solution 2

Import Stock Data Manually from the Web

Use Excel's Get Data feature to import accurate stock data directly from a reliable financial website as a temporary workaround.

Free Microsoft Office alternative

Try WPS Office for Your Spreadsheet Needs

If you are frustrated with Microsoft Excel's built-in data provider bugs or expensive subscriptions, consider switching to WPS Office. It provides a lightweight, highly compatible spreadsheet application that lets you manage your financial data efficiently without the high costs.

1. Download the software: Visit the official WPS Office website and download the free installation package.
2. Install and launch: Run the installer to set up WPS Office, then open the WPS Spreadsheets application.
3. Open existing files: Open your existing Excel (.xlsx) stock tracking files seamlessly and continue your financial analysis.

Seamless compatibility with Microsoft Excel (.xlsx) formatsCompletely free and lightweight suite for all your document needsEasy data import tools to accurately track your financial spreadsheetsFamiliar user interface with zero learning curve

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I change the data provider for Excel's STOCKHISTORY function?

No, Microsoft Excel relies on a built-in partnership with specific third-party providers (such as Refinitiv) for the STOCKHISTORY function. Users do not have the option to manually change the source provider.

Why does STOCKHISTORY show a #BUSY! error instead of data?

The #BUSY! error indicates that Excel is currently retrieving the data from the internet. Wait a few moments for the process to complete. If the error persists, check your internet connection or try clicking 'Refresh All' in the Data tab.

How frequently is the historical stock data updated in Excel?

Historical stock data is typically updated daily after the financial markets close. However, current stock prices and data retrieved via the Stocks data type may experience a slight delay, usually around 15 minutes, depending on the specific exchange rules.

Excel & Data Problems