Gain detailed insights into the trading activity of Congress members for ITA on our government trades page. Stay updated on how elected officials are investing in ITA.

ITA - Government Trades

iShares U.S. Aerospace & Defense ETF

Industrials

The Fund seeks to track the investment results of the Dow Jones U.S. Select Aerospace & Defense Index; the Underlying Index, which measures the performance of the aerospace and defense sector of the U.S. equity market, as defined by S&P Dow Jones Indices LLC; the Index Provider or SPDJI.

General Electric Co.

Raytheon Co.

Boeing Co

Lockheed Martin Corp

Howmet Aerospace Inc.

Northrop Grumman Corp.

L3Harris Technologies Inc.

General Dynamics Corp.

Axon Enterprise Inc

Transdigm Group Inc.

iShares US Aerospace & Defense ETF

lockheed shutter

Equities

Large Cap

News

SHLD

Lockheed Martin Corporation launched GPS III SV07, joining Space Force&#39;s efforts to modernize GPS constellation. 

Mission Accomplished: Lockheed Martin&#39;s GPS III SV07 Successfully Deployed

Stryker Double V-Hull A1

Analyst Color

Government

Mid Cap

Sector ETFs

Downgrades

Price Target

Economics

MRCY

U.S. defense sector braces for turbulence in 2025, as Goldman downgrades General Dynamics and reiterates bearish outlook on other names.

Defense Stocks Face Headwinds As Trump&#39;s DOGE Targets Spending Cuts: Goldman Sachs Downgrades General Dynamics

Contracts

RTX Corporation successfully tests its High-Energy Laser Weapon System with the British Army, targeting aerial threats. Land vehicle integration and soldier training also part of the milestone. 

Raytheon&#39;s High-Energy Laser Weapon System Tested With British Army: Details

2K4A3808

Markets

GCAD

JETS

SAVE

Jim Cramer sees potential for continued strength in airline stocks, provided carriers maintain discipline in flight capacity management. His analysis comes on Monday, Dec. 9, 2024 as major carriers have seen significant stock appreciation in recent months.

Jim Cramer Says Airline Stocks &#39;Strength Can Continue&#39; Amid Structural Shifts: &#39;Ring The Register Before The Music Stops&#39;

morgan stanley shutter

AMZN

GOOG

MSFT

NVDA

Rydex ETF Trust Rydex S&P Equal Weight ETF

SPXE

Morgan Stanley sees potential growth in technology, natural gas, and defense sectors under Trump&#39;s 2024 win but flags risks from trade, fiscal, and regulatory challenges.

Morgan Stanley Narrows Down Winning And Losing Bets In The First 100 Days Of Trump Administration

Trump Notably Refuses To Confirm Support For Ukraine

Global

ETFs

The Pentagon announced Monday the latest arms package for Ukraine totaling $725 million, the largest since a $1 billion package in April.

US Announces $725 Million Arms Package For Ukraine

What Sanders Really Said?

Politics

General

SHLF

On Sunday, Dec. 1, 2024, Bernie Sanders echoed Elon Musk&#39;s concerns about Pentagon waste, citing unpassed audits and an $886 billion defense budget as areas needing urgent reform.

Bernie Sanders: &#39;Elon Musk Is Right&#39; On Wasteful Defense Spending

Lockheed Martin Corporation

After a sell-off on Thursday, Nov. 14 the street seems to be betting on the defense stocks again. This comes as the conflict in the Middle East escalates and geopolitical tensions ratchet the payoffs for the stocks in this sector.

Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman, Defense ETFs Outperform S&amp;P 500 Over The Last 15 Years — What&#39;s Driving The Growth? Analysts Decode

Pete-Hegseth-wiki

FOXA

Trump picks Fox News host Pete Hegseth as Defense Secretary despite lack of government experience.

Trump&#39;s Surprise Defense Secretary Pick Pete Hegseth Jolts Wall Street

Capitol.Stocks.Shutterstock

Trump&#39;s win secures Republican control of the House and Senate, allowing for swift implementation of policy changes, potentially reshaping economic and energy sectors.

Republicans Set To Hold Slim House Majority: What It Means For Energy, Financial, Defense Sectors

Sparkline Intangible Value ETF

INDUSTRIAL TECH ACQUISITIONS II INC COM CL A

INDUSTRIAL TECH ACQUISITIONS II INC UNIT 1 COM CL A & 1/2 WT EXP

INDUSTRIAL TECH ACQUISITIONS II INC WT EXP

INDO TAMBANGRAYA UNSP/ADR by PT Indo Tambangraya Megah

PT Indo Tambangraya Megah Tbk

On Monday, Lockheed Martin Corporation (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LMT#NYSE">LMT</a>) revealed the launch of the seventh Lockheed Martin-designed and built Global Positioning System (GPS) III satellite, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/pressreleases/24/12/n42522602/seventh-lockheed-martin-built-gps-iii-satellite-launches-supporting-next-gen-constellation-moderni" rel="noreferrer noopener">GPS III SV07, at 7:52 p.m. ET</a>.
The GPS III SV07 spacecraft, built at Lockheed Martin&#8217;s Littleton, Colorado, facility, was transported by ground to its Florida launch site after its usual military aircraft was reassigned for hurricane relief efforts.
The satellite was launched into orbit 12,550 miles above Earth from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida.
Carefully planning the 2,337-mile route and tracking Hurricane Milton, the spacecraft completed a six-day journey, avoiding severe weather and arriving for final launch preparations.
The team has successfully completed signal acquisition of GPS III SV07, and the spacecraft is now under operational control at Lockheed Martin&#8217;s Denver Launch &amp; Checkout Operations Center until it is officially accepted into the current 31-satellite operational GPS constellation.
Launched on an accelerated timeline, GPS III SV07 joins the Space Force&#8217;s efforts to modernize the GPS constellation, following the launch of GPS III SV06 in 2023.
Malik Musawwir, vice president of Navigation Systems at Lockheed Martin said, &#8220;We supported our customer&#8217;s vision for an accelerated launch of this GPS satellite, ultimately helping them achieve quick-turn operational readiness.&#8221;
&#8220;Time is of the essence for national security missions, and we quickly delivered this critical capability for the Space Force to support rapid demand for secure, advanced positioning, navigation, and timing signals.&#8221;
Investors can gain exposure to the stock via iShares U.S. Aerospace &amp; Defense ETF (BATS:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ITA#BATS">ITA</a>) and Global X Funds Global X Defense Tech ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SHLD#NYSE">SHLD</a>).
Price Action: LMT shares are down 0.38% at $489.79 premarket at the last check Tuesday.
Read Next:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/12/42500980/palantir-surges-over-3-in-overnight-trading-after-army-navy-game-spotlight-elon-musk-and-trumps-presence-and-nasdaq-100-inclusion" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Palantir Surges Over 3% In Overnight Trading After Army-Navy Game Spotlight, Elon Musk And Trump&#8217;s Presence, And Nasdaq 100 Inclusion</a></li>
</ul>
Photo via Shutterstock.

Mission Accomplished: Lockheed Martin's GPS III SV07 Successfully Deployed

The U.S. defense sector is bracing for turbulence in 2025 as Goldman Sachs downgraded a key player in the industry and reiterated a bearish outlook on other defense stocks, citing risks tied to a slowing Pentagon <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/donald-trump">budget and margin pressures.</a>
The defense budget, which has more than doubled over the past decade, could see deceleration — or even contraction — under the watch of Donald Trump's newly formed Department of Government Efficiency led by Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy. 
"We remain cautious on defense stocks as we see decelerating and potentially negative growth in the forward U.S. Department of Defense budget," Goldman Sachs analyst Noah Poponak said in a note Thursday. 
Goldman downgraded General Dynamics Corp. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GD#NYSE">GD</a>) from Neutral to Sell, citing fundamental challenges across all four of its business segments.
<h1 class="wp-block-heading">Can The Defense Budget Escape DOGE Spending Cuts?</h1>
Goldman warned that defense spending may have peaked, creating "tough compares" for future growth. 
Historically, defense spending has moved in decade-long cycles, and the current high base of investment means the next phase could be one of contraction. 
Poponak also highlighted the incoming Trump administration appears eager to wind down U.S. involvement in foreign conflicts, further reducing the case for large-scale defense spending.
Poponak indicated the Pentagon's procurement efficiency as "imperfect," which could make defense spending an attractive target for cuts. Given that defense represents a significant chunk of the federal budget, trimming it may be unavoidable as DOGE seeks to deliver cost savings.
&#8220;If DOGE wants to substantially reduce total U.S. government spending, it is hard to avoid DoD,&#8221; Goldman Sachs wrote.
<h1 class="wp-block-heading">Structural Margin Pressures And Valuation Risks</h1>
Beyond the potential for lower top-line growth, defense contractors are grappling with long-term pressures on profitability. Over the past few years, the Pentagon has tightened contractual terms, effectively shifting cost risks to contractors.
"While the rate of decline may be slowing, we think margins are now structurally lower moving forward vs. the last decade," Poponak said.
DOGE could exacerbate this trend by advocating for more fixed-price contracts, even in the early stages of programs, a move that would further constrain profitability. 
Yet despite these challenges, defense stocks as a group continue to trade above their historical valuation averages. 
"Defense stocks trade above their historical average valuation level as a group, with some individual names at their high-end and a premium to the equity market," Poponak commented. 
<h1 class="wp-block-heading">Goldman Sachs Reiterates Sell Recommendations On Defense Contractors</h1>
According to Goldman Sachs, the General Dynamics downgrade reflects weaker-than-peer growth in its Technologies division, margin pressures in Marine shipbuilding, reduced supplemental funding at Combat, and delivery challenges at Gulfstream that are weighing on profitability.
"While General Dynamics trades at a discount to Lockheed Martin Corp. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LMT#NYSE">LMT</a>) and Northrop Grumman Corp. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NOC#NYSE">NOC</a>), valuation is at a level where it could derate if earnings power is disappointing the market," Poponak said.
Goldman Sachs also trimmed the 12-month price target on General Dynamics from $283 to $245. 
Lockheed Martin, often seen as the bellwether of the defense industry, also remains on the Sell list from Goldman Sachs. 
The analyst flagged risks related to the F-35 program, which has already been named as a potential target by DOGE leadership. 
"LMT currently has a large positive net pension benefit in its free cash flow, and we expect free cash to be near flat the next several years," Poponak said, adding that the company trades at 23 times estimated 2025 earnings, a steep premium for a stock facing margin and spending risks.
Northrop Grumman holds a similar Sell rating, with Goldman expressing concerns about slowing growth in its flagship B-21 bomber program. Poponak highlighted that NOC trades at 20 times the estimated 2025 earnings and warned of "incremental margin risk" ahead.
Huntington Ingalls Industries Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/HII#NYSE">HII</a>) is also struggling under margin pressures. Its shipbuilding business, plagued by labor shortages and cost overruns, could see profitability erode further, according to the investment bank. 
The company's recent results revealed weaker recurring margins than previously assumed, with guidance pointing to near-term margins as low as 5%, far below historical levels.
Goldman also reaffirmed its Sell ratings on L3 Harris Technologies Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LHX#NYSE">LHX</a>) and Mercury Systems Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRCY#NASDAQ">MRCY</a>), citing slower growth, operational risks, and valuation concerns.
<h1 class="wp-block-heading">Market Reactions</h1>
Shares of General Dynamics fell 1.01% on Thursday, while the broader industry — as tracked by the iShares U.S. Aerospace &amp; Defense ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ITA#NYSE">ITA</a>) – fell 0.64%.
Lockheed Martin fell 1.52%, hitting lows last seen on July 23, 2024.
Read Next: 
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/travel/24/12/42450095/us-airlines-set-to-fly-high-in-2025-analyst-says-perfect-storm-of-tailwinds-will-propel-industry-gains">US Airlines Set To Fly High In 2025, Analyst Says: &#8216;Perfect Storm Of Tailwinds&#8217; Will Propel Industry Gains</a></li>
</ul>
Photo: Courtesy General Dynamics

Defense Stocks Face Headwinds As Trump's DOGE Targets Spending Cuts: Goldman Sachs Downgrades General Dynamics

RTX Corporation (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RTX#NYSE">RTX</a>) disclosed the successful live-firing of its High-Energy Laser Weapon System (HELWS) with the British Army, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/pressreleases/24/12/n42430737/rtxs-raytheon-high-energy-laser-weapon-system-fired-by-british-army-for-first-time" rel="noreferrer noopener">effectively targeting moving aerial threats</a>.
This experiment marks the British Army&#8217;s first test of a high-energy laser weapon mounted on an armored vehicle, with soldiers trained on the weapon&#8217;s targeting and tracking technologies.
Raytheon&#8217;s HELWS is the first laser weapon integrated and fired from a land vehicle in the UK, part of a collaborative program between Raytheon UK and Team Hersa, the joint LDEW initiative involving Defence and Science Laboratory and Defence Equipment and Support.
The trial, held at a military range in Wales, marked the latest phase of the U.K. Ministry of Defence&#8217;s Land Laser Directed Energy Weapon (LDEW) demonstrator program.
&#8220;Our High-Energy Laser Weapon System has been used in operations globally, and now the British Army is experimenting with this game-changing capability,&#8221; said&nbsp;James Gray, chief executive and managing director of Raytheon UK.
Matt Cork, Head of Team Hersa, added, &#8220;By integrating advanced directed energy technologies onto armoured platforms, we&#8217;re not only proving the feasibility of these game-changing systems but also accelerating their path to operational readiness. It&#8217;s an exciting step forward in redefining the future of defence capability.&#8221;
Investors can gain exposure to the stock via iShares U.S. Aerospace &amp; Defense ETF (BATS:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ITA#BATS">ITA</a>) and Global X Funds Global X Defense Tech ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SHLD#NYSE">SHLD</a>).
Price Action: RTX shares are down 0.18% at $117.40 at the last check Wednesday.
Read Next:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/12/42382786/morgan-stanley-narrows-down-winning-and-losing-bets-in-the-first-100-days-of-trump-administration" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Morgan Stanley Narrows Down Winning And Losing Bets In The First 100 Days Of Trump Administration</a></li>
</ul>

Raytheon's High-Energy Laser Weapon System Tested With British Army: Details

Jim Cramer sees potential for continued strength in airline stocks, provided carriers maintain discipline in flight capacity management. His analysis comes on Monday as major carriers have seen <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/global/24/12/42365072/why-archer-aviation-stock-is-gaining-today">significant stock appreciation in recent months</a>.
What Happened: Delta Air Lines Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DAL#NYSE">DAL</a>), United Airlines Holdings Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/UAL#NASDAQ">UAL</a>), and American Airlines Group Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAL#NASDAQ">AAL</a>) have all rebounded strongly from their recent lows, benefiting from multiple tailwinds. 
Cramer <a href="https://www.cnbc.com/2024/12/09/airline-stocks-could-keep-running-if-capacity-control-jim-cramer-says.html">highlighted</a> that the sector&#8217;s recovery is supported by both macroeconomic factors and industry-specific developments on CNBC.
&#8220;The strength can continue for however long the capacity discipline does,&#8221; Cramer stated on his Monday show. &#8220;For now, these companies are all saying the right things.&#8221;
The airline sector is experiencing structural shifts that could mark a departure from traditional boom-bust cycles. Cramer pointed to reduced competition from budget carriers like Spirit Airlines Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SAVE#NYSE">SAVE</a>) and Southwest Airlines Co. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LUV#NYSE">LUV</a>), which have scaled back expansion plans. 
Additionally, manufacturing delays at The Boeing Co. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BA#NYSE">BA</a>) have created a natural cap on industry capacity.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/movers/24/12/42404450/bitcoin-ethereum-dogecoin-recover-losses-after-flash-crash-analyst-pinpoints-critical-btc-support-levels">Bitcoin, Ethereum, Dogecoin Recover Losses After Flash Crash: Analyst Pinpoints Critical BTC Support Levels</a>
Why It Matters: A resurgence in business travel post-pandemic and potential Federal Reserve rate cuts have further bolstered the sector&#8217;s outlook. However, Cramer maintained his characteristic caution, noting that airlines historically perform better as trading vehicles rather than long-term investments.
Major aviation exchange-traded funds, including U.S. Global Jets ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/JETS#NYSE">JETS</a>), Gabelli Commercial Aerospace and Defense ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GCAD#NYSE">GCAD</a>), and iShares U.S. Aerospace &amp; Defense ETF (BATS:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ITA#BATS">ITA</a>), have risen by over 30% in the past year, according to <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pro/">data from Benzinga Pro</a>.
&#8220;My gut tells me maybe to ring the register before the music stops,&#8221; Cramer advised while acknowledging the possibility of a structural shift in the industry&#8217;s dynamics.
Read Next: 
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/12/42404312/gary-black-boosts-tesla-price-target-by-27-to-380-citing-25k-hatchbacks-market-potential">Gary Black Boosts Tesla Price Target By 27% To $380 Based On &#8216;Increased Conviction&#8217; That Elon Musk-Led Company Will Launch $25K Hatchback</a></li>
</ul>
Courtesy of American Airlines.
Disclaimer:&nbsp;This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.

Jim Cramer Says Airline Stocks 'Strength Can Continue' Amid Structural Shifts: 'Ring The Register Before The Music Stops'

The Republican party&#8217;s win in the 2024 elections could pave the way for significant policy changes, according to Morgan Stanley. The global financial services firm anticipates growth and innovation, particularly in the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/11/42158682/donald-trumps-win-positive-for-financials-energy-sector-as-pro-growth-effects-will-outweigh-inflationary-pressures-says-analyst">technology </a>and <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/best-natural-gas-stocks">natural gas</a> sectors. However, it also cautions that concerns over trade tariffs, immigration policies, fiscal sustainability, and the scope and timing of new policies may constrain the broader economic outlook.
Morgan Stanley&#8217;s Picks
Markets have reacted positively to President-elect Donald Trump&#8216;s victory and have been trading higher than the pre-election levels. However, slower-than-expected deregulation and shallower tax cuts could impact the markets, Morgan Stanley's Global Investment Office believes investors should keep an eye on the following areas:
Energy As per Morgan Stanley, the energy sector faces a divided future. Trump&#8217;s deregulation could benefit traditional energy, but oil&#8217;s outlook is uncertain due to potential oversupply and weak global demand, especially from China. In contrast, natural gas may see growth from strong European demand and increased domestic use for electrification and AI-powered data centers. The clean energy sector could face challenges, if Trump rollbacks Biden&#8217;s 2022 Inflation Reduction Act tax credits. But a full repeal seems unlikely due to the benefits for Republican states.
Invesco S&amp;P 500 Equal Weight ETF (ACRA: RSP) has risen by 17.36% on a year-to-date basis. While, the iShares Russell 1000 Value ETF (ACRA: IWD) and Vanguard High Dividend Yield Index ETF (ACRA: VYM) advanced by 18.56% and 18.96%, respectively, in the same period, underperforming the S&amp;P 500 on a year-to-date basis, which has grown by 28.41% in the same period. Whereas, ProShares S&amp;P 500 Ex-Energy ETF (ACRA: SPXE) grew by 28.85% year-to-date, outperforming the index.
Also read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/11/42158682/donald-trumps-win-positive-for-financials-energy-sector-as-pro-growth-effects-will-outweigh-inflationary-pressures-says-analyst">Donald Trump&#8217;s Win Positive For Financials, Energy Sector As &#8216;Pro-Growth Effects Will Outweigh Inflationary Pressures,&#8217; Says Analyst</a>
Defense U.S. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/movers/24/12/42369000/booz-allen-and-palantir-partner-to-drive-us-defense-operations">defense</a> spending is expected to stay robust amid rising geopolitical tensions, says Morgan Stanley. However, European defense stocks have outperformed U.S. ones due to uncertainty about U.S. NATO involvement and increased spending by other NATO members.
Trump during his first post-election network interview with NBC News on Sunday said &#8220;If they&#8217;re paying their bills, and if I think they&#8217;re treating us fairly, absolutely, I would stay with NATO.&#8221;
Moreover, technological advancements in cybersecurity, AI, drones, and other areas are also favoring smaller, specialized companies over traditional defense giants, added Morgan Stanley.
As per the <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/dashboard">Benzinga Pro</a> data, the S&amp;P 500 Aerospace &amp; Defense Industry Index has risen by 15.78% year-to-date, whereas Lockheed Martin Corp (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LMT#NYSE">LMT</a>), RTX Corp (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RTX#NYSE">RTX</a>) and iShares U.S. Aerospace &amp; Defense ETF (ACRA: ITA) have grown by 12.48%, 38.45% and 20.15%, respectively in the same period.
Also read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/24/12/42317289/ray-dalios-bridgewater-adds-broadcom-apple-smci-in-q3-while-offloading-stake-in-ai-giant-nvidia-and">Ray Dalio&#8217;s Bridgewater Adds Broadcom, Apple, SMCI In Q3, While Offloading Stake In AI Giant Nvidia And Other Big Tech Companies</a>
Technology And Communication According to Morgan Stanley, the technology sector may see mixed outcomes. Cryptocurrencies and AI industries could benefit from Trump&#8217;s favorable stance. Whereas investments in reshoring semiconductors through the CHIPS Act may strengthen those areas, highlighting AI as a national security priority. However, social media and information companies may continue facing regulatory and antitrust challenges.
Major AI payers in the U.S. stock markets include Nvidia Corporation (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVDA#NASDAQ">NVDA</a>) with a 195.7% year-to-date performance and Microsoft Corporation (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MSFT#NASDAQ">MSFT</a>) 19.6% growth in the same period. Whereas, Amazon.com Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMZN#NASDAQ">AMZN</a>) and Alphabet Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GOOG#NASDAQ">GOOG</a>) rose by 51.42% and 26.46% year-to-date, respectively.
Photo Courtesy: Shutterstock.com
Read next: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42283257/charles-schwab-goldman-sachs-invesco-add-mara-holdings-morgan-stanley-cuts-stake-here-is-what-changed-with-mara-holdings-in-q3">Charles Schwab, Goldman Sachs Boosts MARA Stake As Stock Rallies 30% In Past 6 Months: Morgan Stanley, Other Major Funds Trim Positions In Q3</a>

The Pentagon announced Monday the latest arms package for Ukraine totaling $725 million, the largest since a $1 billion package in April. The arms package will include the second shipment of antipersonnel mines that President Joe Biden<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/commodities/24/11/41873103/trump-reportedly-urges-russian-president-to-deescalate-war-with-ukraine-heres-how-crude-oil-wti-futures-are-reacting"> authorized.</a>
According to a Bloomberg <a href="https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2024-12-02/us-to-announce-725-million-arms-package-for-ukraine-including-mines?sref=TBDibEcD">report</a>, the latest arms package will also include air defense missiles and Javelin, TOW and AT-4 anti-armor weapons, counter-drone munitions, 155mm artillery shells and "equipment to protect critical national infrastructure," according to the Department of Defense.
Read More: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/etfs/new-etfs/24/12/42270723/new-conservative-etf-aims-to-invest-in-sp-500-without-dei-were-going-to-deliver-that-mandate">New Conservative ETF Aims To Invest In S&amp;P 500 Without DEI: &#8216;We&#8217;re Going To Deliver That Mandate&#8217;</a>
Last week, the White House asked Congress to provide an additional $24 billion in security assistance which it is seeking to designate as "emergency spending." The Biden administration requested $8 billion for the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative to finance weapons contracts with U.S. defense contractors with the remaining $16 billion to be used for replenishing U.S. weapons stocks.
Major General Patrick Ryder, a Pentagon spokesman, told reporters "We understand the urgent situation in Ukraine and the president's direction and will continue to do everything we can to ensure that Ukraine is getting the aid that it needs."
Why It Matters: Government and military contracting companies, including General Dynamics Corp. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GD#NYSE">GD</a>), may benefit from the latest arms package to Ukraine. Specifically, the Javelin weapon system is produced by the Javelin Joint Venture, a partnership between Lockheed Martin Corp. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LMT#NYSE">LMT</a>) and RTX Corp. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RTX#NYSE">RTX</a>) subsidiary Raytheon.  
Investors can gain exposure to the broader aerospace and defense industry through ETFs that invest in U.S. government and military contractors including the iShares U.S. Aerospace &amp; Defense ETF (BATS:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ITA#BATS">ITA</a>) and the SPDR S&amp;P Aerospace &amp; Defense ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XAR#NYSE">XAR</a>). 
Read Next:&nbsp;
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/24/12/42273676/walmart-target-bath-body-works-stand-out-as-black-friday-winners-analysts">Walmart, Target, Bath &amp; Body Works Stand Out As Black Friday Winners: Analysts</a></li>
</ul>
Photo: Shutterstock

On Sunday, Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) took to social media to express his agreement with Elon Musk regarding the Pentagon&#8217;s financial management. 
What Happened: Sanders highlighted the Pentagon&#8217;s $886 billion budget and its failure to pass audits for the seventh consecutive year in a post on X.
He pointed out that billions have gone unaccounted for, emphasizing the need for reform. Sanders noted that only 13 senators opposed the defense budget last year, which he described as being riddled with waste and fraud. He stressed, &#8220;That must change.&#8221;
<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"> 
<div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">&#x1f1fa;&#x1f1f8;&#x1f1fa;&#x1f1f8;
&mdash; Elon Musk (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1863297860651069586?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 1, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
</figure>
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/24/12/42257492/dr-doom-roubini-on-trumps-second-term-inflation-will-be-higher-growth-is-going-to-be-lower?itm_source=parsely-api" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">&#8216;Dr. Doom&#8217; Roubini on Trump&#8217;s Second Term: &#8216;Inflation Will Be Higher, Growth Is Going To Be Lower&#8217;</a>
Musk responded to Sanders&#8217; post by posting two U.S. flag emojis. Notably, the Vermont senator has been a vocal critic of Musk. Earlier this year, he criticized the entrepreneur&#8217;s reported donations to former President Donald Trump&#8217;s campaign, while <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/07/39807458/bernie-sanders-slams-elon-musks-reported-45m-donations-to-trump-campaign-we-need-a-government-that-r">advocating for publicly funded elections</a>
Why It Matters: Sanders&#8217; statement comes amid broader debates on military spending and technological advancements in warfare. 
Recently, Musk has been vocal about transforming military strategies, advocating for <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/11/42206297/amid-elon-musks-push-for-drones-and-ai-for-combat-transformation-analyst-pierre-ferragu-says-shift-the-defense-budget-in-favor-of-startups">drones and AI over traditional fighter jets</a>. 
Musk, appointed by Trump to co-lead the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), criticized the F-35 program, advocating for drones over manned jets. Musk called manned jets like the F-35 outdated, sparking a defense from the Pentagon and Lockheed Martin, who highlighted the jet&#8217;s global demand despite cost overruns and delays. Musk's remarks aligned with his broader concerns about government overspending and fiscal responsibility.
DOGE, led by Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy, aims to cut wasteful federal spending, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/government/regulations/24/11/42013424/trumps-musk-ramaswamy-doge-plan-what-it-means-for-defense-and-it-stocks">raising concerns for defense contractors</a> as the $877 billion defense budget faces scrutiny. While defense stocks risk a downturn, government IT firms specializing in AI, cybersecurity, and efficiency technologies could emerge as winners in this sector shakeup.
Despite ongoing discussions about wasteful defense spending, some exchange-traded funds in this sector have climbed since Trump's election. The iShares US Aerospace &amp; Defense ETF (BATS:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ITA#BATS">ITA</a>) gained nearly 7.1% during this time, while the Global X Defense Tech ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SHLF#NYSE">SHLF</a>) surged 39.2%.
Image via Shutterstock
Did You Know?
<ul>
<li>Congress Is Making Huge Investments. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/gov-trades">Get Tips On What They Bought And Sold Ahead Of The 2024 Election With Our Easy-to-Use Tool</a></li>
</ul>
This story was generated using <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/benzinga-neuro">Benzinga Neuro</a> and edited by <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/shivdeep-dhaliwal" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Shivdeep Dhaliwal</a>

Bernie Sanders: 'Elon Musk Is Right' On Wasteful Defense Spending

After a sell-off on Thursday, Nov. 14 the street seems to be betting on the defense stocks again. This comes as the conflict in the Middle East escalates and geopolitical tensions ratchet the payoffs for the stocks in this sector.
What Happened: As defense stocks become lucrative with rising tension, David Wagner, portfolio manager at Aptus Capital Advisors says that "this is more than just a geopolitical play.&#8221; He sees further upside in the defense and aerospace areas, despite current rich valuations, as per a <a href="https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2024-10-08/wall-street-sees-more-room-for-defense-stocks-torrid-advance?embedded-checkout=true">Bloomberg</a> report.
As per the<a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/dashboard"> Benzinga Pro</a> data, the S&amp;P 500 Aerospace &amp; Defense Industry Index has risen by 15.33% year-to-date, whereas Lockheed Martin Corp (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LMT#NYSE">LMT</a>), Rtx Corp (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RTX#NYSE">RTX</a>) and iShares U.S. Aerospace &amp; Defense ETF (ACRA: ITA) have all outperformed the index at 17.26%, 39.09% and 20.09%, respectively in the same period.
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="308" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/18073042/Defense-stocks--1024x308.png" alt="" class="wp-image-652786" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/18073042/Defense-stocks--1024x308.png 1024w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/18073042/Defense-stocks--300x90.png 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/18073042/Defense-stocks--768x231.png 768w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/18073042/Defense-stocks-.png 1080w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>
On a 15-year basis, Lockheed Martin has surged 603.08%, outperforming the iShares U.S. Aerospace &amp; Defense ETF, which rose 521%. Another notable up move was seen in the shares of Northrop Grumman Corp (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NOC#NYSE">NOC</a>) which have zoomed by 2,806% since its listing in May 2015. During the same period, S&amp;P 500 has risen 436%, while S&amp;P 500 Aerospace &amp; Defense, which started in 2012, gained 321.57%. 
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="576" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/18073142/Stocks-Defense-15-year-1024x576.png" alt="" class="wp-image-652789" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/18073142/Stocks-Defense-15-year-1024x576.png 1024w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/18073142/Stocks-Defense-15-year-300x169.png 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/18073142/Stocks-Defense-15-year-768x432.png 768w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/18073142/Stocks-Defense-15-year-1536x864.png 1536w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/18073142/Stocks-Defense-15-year.png 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>
Why It Matters: Defense stocks, also known as haven assets, are comprised of two major sub-groups — defense and aerospace — offering investors a relatively diversified profile. While some analysts think geopolitics will tick the share prices higher, others argue their higher valuations.
Historically, defense spending runs in decades-long cycles. Investment in the sector experiences periods of growth followed by downturns, and we may be nearing the peak of the current cycle, according to <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/government/regulations/24/11/42013424/trumps-musk-ramaswamy-doge-plan-what-it-means-for-defense-and-it-stocks">Goldman Sachs</a> analyst Noah Poponak.
"The defense budget is at an all-time high, which creates difficult comparisons and challenging base effects," the analyst said in a note published Friday.
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Key Risks For Defense Stocks As Per Goldman Sachs</h3>
<ol>
<li>Peak Spending: The defense budget is hovering at historical highs, making future growth difficult.</li>
<li>Geopolitical Shifts: If major conflicts ease, defense spending could decline.</li>
<li>Government Debt: U.S. debt-to-GDP ratios are near record levels, increasing pressure to curb federal spending.</li>
</ol>
Also read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/government/regulations/24/11/42013424/trumps-musk-ramaswamy-doge-plan-what-it-means-for-defense-and-it-stocks">Trump&#8217;s DOGE Plan: Goldman Sachs Says Defense Stocks Face Risks, IT Firms Could Win</a>
Speaking to Bloomberg about the fundamentals of the defense stocks, Keith Lerner, co-chief investment officer at Truist Advisory Services said, "Valuations are rich for the group, so that may cap the upside. If the economy slows down more than expected or we see a short-term de-escalation in the Middle East that could also weigh on the group,&#8221; he added.
However, a few analysts like Cole Wilcox, portfolio manager at Longboard Asset Management said, &#8220;Unfortunately we are in a cycle of high and growing conflict around the world. This is driving increased demand for defense spending that is likely to persist for a very long time."
Read next: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/11/42029975/cathie-wood-redirects-elon-musks-doge-focus-toward-nuclear-energy-amid-regulatory-challenges-heres-how-oklo-cameco-centrus-energy-and-other-stocks-performed">Cathie Wood Redirects Elon Musk&#8217;s DOGE Focus Toward Nuclear Energy Amid Regulatory Challenges: Here&#8217;s How Oklo, Cameco, Centrus Energy And Other Stocks Performed</a>
Image via LockheedMartin

Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman, Defense ETFs Outperform S&P 500 Over The Last 15 Years — What's Driving The Growth? Analysts Decode

President-elect Donald Trump has spent the week following <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/11/41768178/donald-trump-defeats-kamala-harris-to-win-2024-election">his election win</a> penciling in cabinet picks. His choice for Defense Secretary, Pete Hegseth, is raising eyebrows. 
The Pick: Hegseth was a co-host on Fox Corp&#8216;s (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/FOXA#NASDAQ">FOXA</a>) (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/FOX#NASDAQ">FOX</a>) &#8220;Fox &amp; Friends,&#8221; Trump&#8217;s favorite television show. 
The Minnesota native, an Iraq and Afghanistan War veteran, has never held a government position. Hegseth has been a strong supporter of Trump since 2016.
<a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-hegseth-defense-secretary-pentagon-2d8030921ecef933778cf92afd40ec72">According</a> to the Associated Press, Trump encouraged his supporters to buy Hegseth's book in June and said that if he won the election, "The woke stuff will be gone within a period of 24 hours. I can tell you."
Hegseth supports removing women from combat roles in the military, <a href="https://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/americas/us-politics/pete-hegseth-defense-secretary-trump-women-military-b2646325.html">according</a> to The Independent. 
Why it Matters: Trump&#8217;s selection of Hegseth surprised many Wall Street observers, <a href="https://www.barrons.com/amp/articles/trump-defense-secretary-pete-hegseth-stocks-d9af9d58">according</a> to Barron&#8217;s. The television host was not on the radar of research analysts.
Trump announced plans Tuesday to appoint Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy to form the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/government/regulations/24/11/41931503/trump-forms-doge-with-elon-musk-and-vivek-ramaswamy-at-the-helm-will-it-impact-tesla-ceos-role-at-the-ev-giant-and-spacex">&#8220;Department of Government Efficiency,&#8221;</a> aimed to &#8220;cut wasteful expenditures.&#8221; 
The sprawling U.S. military complex, which now <a href="https://fiscaldata.treasury.gov/americas-finance-guide/federal-spending/">comprises</a> 13% of the federal budget at nearly $1 trillion, has been unable to pass an independent audit for the last six years, <a href="https://www.reuters.com/world/us/pentagon-fails-audit-sixth-year-row-2023-11-16/">according</a> to Reuters.
Wall Street is apparently not worried that Musk and Ramaswamy will gut military spending to federal contractors. The iShares US Aerospace &amp; Defense ETF (BATS:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ITA#BATS">ITA</a>) has risen over 7% since Trump&#8217;s election win. General Dynamics Corp (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GD#NYSE">GD</a>), Lockheed Martin Corp (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LMT#NYSE">LMT</a>) and Rtx Corp (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RTX#NYSE">RTX</a>) have posted gains in that period.
What&#8217;s Next: Several Democratic Party politicians <a href="https://x.com/SenWarren/status/1856502912551158049">including</a> Senator Elizabeth Warren voiced disapproval of Trump&#8217;s pick, citing Hegseth&#8217;s lack of experience. The &#8220;Fox &amp; Friends&#8221; anchor will face a confirmation hearing in the Senate following Trump&#8217;s inauguration.
Also Read:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/global/24/11/41927289/trump-appoints-elon-musk-and-vivek-ramaswamy-to-lead-doge-targeting-bureaucracy-and-65-trillion-federal-spending-we-will-not-go-gently">Trump Appoints Elon Musk And Vivek Ramaswamy To Lead &#8216;DOGE,&#8217; Aiming to Slash Bureaucracy And $6.5 Trillion Federal Spending: &#8216;We Will Not Go Gently&#8217;</a></li>
</ul>
Photo courtesy of Wikimedia.

Trump's Surprise Defense Secretary Pick Pete Hegseth Jolts Wall Street

Republicans are set to maintain control of the House of Representatives with a narrow margin, marking a new era as President-elect Donald Trump heads back <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/donald-trump">to the White House. </a>
With control of Congress locked up Wednesday, Trump and his allies are poised to enact changes across various sectors, from tax reforms to potential deregulations, as the party mobilizes to advance its agenda across Washington, NBC News <a href="https://www.nbcnews.com/politics/2024-election/republicans-win-house-majority-trump-party-senate-control-rcna179231">reports</a>.
What Happened: Following a decisive win over Vice President Kamala Harris, Trump&#8217;s victory helped secure key congressional seats that kept Republicans in command of the House and the Senate. This sweeping Republican control creates a dynamic environment where Trump can enact his policy objectives with minimal opposition, positioning the party to reshape American policy on multiple fronts.
House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) celebrated the victory on Capitol Hill, emphasizing the unity and optimism he expects to define the next two years of governance. Key GOP gains in swing districts across Pennsylvania and Michigan helped solidify Republican dominance, despite Democrat efforts to regain control, according to NBC News.
With this control, Trump's team may pursue reforms involving tax cuts, health care changes, and immigration policy adjustments aimed at fulfilling the promises for which he campaigned. Republicans will also be in a position to use "reconciliation," a procedural tool allowing legislation to pass more easily without relying on Democratic support.
Read Next:<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/politics/24/11/41950681/trump-once-said-political-career-over-about-john-thune-now-senate-majority-leader-working-with-him-to-pass-gop-agenda"> Trump Once Said John Thune&#8217;s &#8216;Political Career Over&#8217;: Now He&#8217;ll Work With Senate Majority Leader On GOP Agenda</a>
Why It Matters: The GOP's full leadership signals potential market shifts as Republicans focus on deregulation and reshaping economic policy. 
Analysts expect changes in sustainable investment strategies under Trump's leadership. JPMorgan's Virgina Martin Heriz highlighted that while some Inflation Reduction Act incentives for clean energy might stay, others, like electric vehicle tax credits, could face cuts. &#8220;Fund performance matters far more than politics,&#8221; she said, underlining that financial gains may drive <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/government/regulations/24/11/41926301/sustainable-investment-under-trump-performance-matters-far-more-than-politics-jpmorgan-analyst-says">decisions in renewable energy.</a>
In light of these changes, certain sectors may see pronounced impacts:
Energy Sector Growth: With a pro-energy agenda, traditional oil and gas firms could thrive under reduced regulations. 
<ul>
<li>ETF to Watch: Energy Select Sector SPDR Fund (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XLE#NYSE">XLE</a>), tracking companies like Exxon Mobil (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XOM#NYSE">XOM</a>) and Chevron (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CVX#NYSE">CVX</a>), may benefit from policies aimed at fossil fuel expansion.</li>
</ul>
Financial Sector Deregulation: Reduced oversight in the financial sector could benefit banks and investment firms. 
<ul>
<li>ETF to Watch: Financial Select Sector SPDR Fund (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XLF#NYSE">XLF</a>), which includes firms such as JPMorgan Chase (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/JPM#NYSE">JPM</a>) and Bank of America (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BAC#NYSE">BAC</a>).</li>
</ul>
Defense and Infrastructure Investment: Increased defense and infrastructure spending could benefit contractors. 
<ul>
<li>ETF to Watch: iShares U.S. Aerospace &amp; Defense ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ITA#NYSE">ITA</a>), with major holdings like Lockheed Martin (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LMT#NYSE">LMT</a>) and Raytheon Technologies (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RTX#NYSE">RTX</a>).</li>
</ul>
Read Next:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/24/11/41930918/trumps-high-inflation-regime-will-weaken-the-dollar-and-push-bitcoin-to-1m-says-arthur-hayes-get-long-and-stay-long">Trump&#8217;s High-Inflation Regime Will Weaken The Dollar And Push Bitcoin To $1M, Says Arthur Hayes: &#8216;Get Long And Stay Long&#8217;</a></li>
</ul>
Photo: Shutterstock

Invesco has unveiled a new series of thematic exchange-traded funds (ETFs) that focus on artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and defense sectors. These funds aim to leverage emerging trends within these industries.
What Happened: The newly introduced ETFs, named Invesco Artificial Intelligence Enablers, Cybersecurity, and Defence Innovation Ucits, are based on benchmarks crafted by Kensho, a division of S&amp;P Global Indices. Kensho utilizes natural language processing to pinpoint companies with significant involvement in each theme, categorizing them into &#8220;core&#8221; and &#8220;non-core&#8221; groups, Financial Times<a href="https://www.ft.com/content/476d3e81-cbd2-4484-8fb5-4a074dcaa97c"> reported</a> on Thursday.
As per Invesco, core companies generate a substantial portion of their revenue from products and services aligned with these themes, while non-core companies provide essential inputs without focusing on end products. The AI enablers strategy targets firms advancing AI technology and infrastructure, whereas the cybersecurity ETF invests in companies protecting enterprises from unauthorized electronic access. The defense fund provides exposure to companies developing advanced weapons and defensive systems
Here are a few ETFs and how they fared in the past year, as per <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com">Benzinga Pro</a>:
Artificial Intelligence
<ul>
<li>iShares U.S. Technology ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ITW#NYSE">ITW</a>) increased 45.40% over the year with holdings like Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAPL#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>), Nvidia Corp. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MSFT#NASDAQ">MSFT</a>) and Microsoft Corp. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MSFT#NASDAQ">MSFT</a>).</li>
<li>Fidelity MSCI Information Technology Index ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/FTEC#NYSE">FTEC</a>), with similar exposure, rose 43.17%.</li>
<li>First Trust Dow Jones Internet Index Fund (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/FTX#NYSE">FTX</a>), which gives exposure to Meta Platforms, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/META#NASDAQ">META</a>), Amazon.com Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMZN#NASDAQ">AMZN</a>), Netflix, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NFLX#NASDAQ">NFLX</a>), increased 45.59%.</li>
</ul>
Cybersecurity
<ul>
<li>First Trust NASDAQ Cybersecurity ETF (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CIBR#NASDAQ">CIBR</a>) increased 38.08%. Its holdings include Cisco Systems, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CSCO#NASDAQ">CSCO</a>), CrowdStrike Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CRWD#NASDAQ">CRWD</a>) and Broadcom Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AVGO#NASDAQ">AVGO</a>).</li>
<li>Amplify Cybersecurity ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/HACK#NYSE">HACK</a>) rose 39.57%. Along with Broadcom, and Cisco, the ETF&#8217;s major holdings also include Palo Alto Networks, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PANW#NASDAQ">PANW</a>), and General Dynamics Corporation (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GD#NYSE">GD</a>).</li>
<li>iShares Cybersecurity &amp; Tech ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IHAK#NYSE">IHAK</a>) with exposure to companies such as SentinelOne, Inc. Class A (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/S#NYSE">S</a>), and Fortinet, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/FTNT#NASDAQ">FTNT</a>), rose 33.95%.</li>
</ul>
Defense
<ul>
<li>iShares US Aerospace &amp; Defense ETF (BATS:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ITA#BATS">ITA</a>) with exposure to companies such as General Electric (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GE#NYSE">GE</a>) and RTX Corp. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RTX#NYSE">RTX</a>) increased 33.86%.</li>
<li>Invesco Aerospace &amp; Defense ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PPA#NYSE">PPA</a>) with exposure to companies such as Boeing Co. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BA#NYSE">BA</a>) and Lockheed Martin Corp (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LMT#NYSE">LMT</a>) increased by 43.05%.</li>
<li>SPDR S&amp;P Aerospace &amp; Defense ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XAR#NYSE">XAR</a>) was up by 34.86%. It gives exposure to Axon Enterprise, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AXN#NASDAQ">AXN</a>), L3Harris Technologies, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LHX#NYSE">LHX</a>).</li>
</ul>
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/24/11/41794596/bitcoin-ethereum-dogecoin-slingshot-to-the-moon-after-trump-victory-but-sharp-correction-m?itm_source=parsely-api" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bitcoin, Ethereum, Dogecoin Slingshot To The Moon After Trump Victory But &#8216;Sharp&#8217; Correction Might Be In Store: Analyst Views BTC Between $80-90K By End Of Year</a>
Why It Matters: The launch of these ETFs by Invesco comes at a time when thematic investing is<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/24/11/41713236/donald-trumps-return-to-white-house-could-propel-these-etfs-to-new-highs"> gaining traction among investors</a> looking to capitalize on specific industry trends. The focus on artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and defense aligns with growing global interest in these areas, driven by technological advancements and increasing security concerns.
Read Next: 
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/11/41734887/cathie-woods-latest-shake-up-dumps-palantir-and-jack-dorseys-block-along-with-tesla-buys-amazon-?itm_source=parsely-api" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cathie Wood&#8217;s Latest Shake-up: Dumps Palantir And Jack Dorsey&#8217;s Block Along With Tesla, Buys Amazon And Meta</a></li>
</ul>
Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/benzinga-neuro" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Benzinga Neuro</a>&nbsp;and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.
Image via Invesco

New ETFs

AAPL

AVGO

CIBR

CRWD

CSCO

FTEC

FTNT

HACK

IHAK

NFLX

PANW

Invesco Launches New ETFs Targeting AI, Cybersecurity, And Defense. Here's How Some Of Their Peers Have Performed In The Past Year

BofA Securities analyst Ronald J. Epstein upgraded L3Harris Technologies, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LHX#NYSE">LHX</a>) to Buy from Neutral and raised the <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/LHX/analyst-ratings" rel="noreferrer noopener">price target to $300 from $240</a>.
The analyst writes that L3Harris introduced its transformation initiative, &#8220;LHX Next,&#8221; which he initially viewed with cautious optimism.
However, recent results have reinforced our positive outlook, showing that the streamlined, focused LHX is now better positioned to fulfill its commitments and exceed expectations, says the analyst.
Moreover, Ronald says that the missile and munitions industry consensus is clear: demand is relentless, with a promising outlook extending over the next five years.
LHX is well-positioned to capitalize on this trend, standing out as one of the few companies with solid rocket motor (SRM) production capabilities.
LHX&#8217;s recent wins, including contracts for the Next-Gen Interceptor (NGI) and as the primary provider for the 1st and 3rd stage propulsion on the Glide Phase Interceptor (GPI), underscore the strength and reliability of its products, adds the analyst.
Notably, last week, the company announced a&nbsp;strategic partnership&nbsp;with Palantir Technologies Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PLTR#NYSE">PLTR</a>)&nbsp;to combine Palantir&#8217;s Artificial Intelligence Platform with L3Harris&#8217; sensor and <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/10/41554264/palantir-technologies-stock-reaches-new-52-week-high-whats-going-on" rel="noreferrer noopener">software-defined systems</a>.
The analyst writes that this partnership reflects a forward-thinking and strategic move by LHX, leveraging Palantir&#8217;s enterprise AI-driven data integration to enhance cost efficiency, gain greater supply chain visibility, and enable quicker, more informed decisions.
Additionally, the collaboration supports AI-enabled product development, aligning LHX&#8217;s focus on core capabilities with Palantir&#8217;s software expertise—a combination we view as a strong foundation for future growth, adds the analyst.
The analyst adds that the company surpassed its $400 million run-rate savings target for 2024 and now expects to achieve $600 million by year-end, bolstering confidence in its $1 billion savings target.
Consequently, Ronald raised the estimates, with 2026E free cash flow (FCF) now projected at $2.8 billion and potential for additional upside.
Investors can gain exposure to the stock via XAR (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XAR#NYSE">XAR</a>) and iShares U.S. Aerospace &amp; Defense ETF (BATS:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ITA#BATS">ITA</a>).
Price Action: LHX shares are up 0.57% at $246.81 at the last check Thursday.
Read Next:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/24/10/41555316/l3harris-poised-for-2025-growth-analysts-highlight-q3-earnings-beat-solid-orders-an" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">L3Harris Poised For 2025 Growth: Analysts Highlight Q3 Earnings Beat, Solid Orders, And Margin Expansion Potential</a></li>
</ul>

Upgrades

Analyst Ratings

Trading Ideas

PLTR

L3Harris And Palantir Collaboration Key To Future Growth, BofA Upgrades Stock

GE Aerospace (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GE#NYSE">GE</a>) and Waygate Technologies disclosed the joint development of a <a target="_blank" href="https://www.publicnow.com/view/3C5D8ECEB514B8CBFAAF0DE9A9F66BAB865D3AA1?1730119678#:~:text=To%20ensure%20greater%20reliability%20in,previously%20difficult%20to%20detect%20defects." rel="noreferrer noopener">new</a> AI-assisted commercial engine borescope solution.
This innovative tool will be available to Waygate Technologies&#8217; customers and introduced to GE Aerospace&#8217;s maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) network later this year.
This milestone marks the successful completion of their first development program under the Joint Technology Development Agreement established in May 2023.
In their initial program, GE Aerospace and Waygate Technologies aimed to improve machine vision-based assisted defect recognition (ADR) systems using AI for commercial aviation engine borescope inspections.
The focus was specifically on High Pressure Compressor (HPC) inspections, which are among the most critical and time-consuming tasks in the engine&#8217;s Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) process.
The new solution leverages advanced AI techniques to improve detection rates by about 34% and reduce false alerts by over 13% compared to the previous model.
This AI upgrade will be available in an upcoming software update for the Mentor Visual iQ+ video borescope later this year.
Nicole Jenkins, Chief MRO Engineer, GE Aerospace, said, &#8220;Collaborating with Waygate Technologies, we have successfully combined our industry domain knowledge and digital expertise to integrate new AI techniques with the right data to improve the detection capabilities of commercial engine borescope inspections.&#8221;
&#8220;This joint development illustrates a bigger effort to give our inspection engineers more advanced tools using AI, computer vision, and automation to help them work productively and meet the needs of our customers. We believe this AI-assisted borescope system will help significantly reduce the time it takes to perform HPC inspections, while delivering high accuracy at the same time.&#8221;
Investors can gain exposure to GE via IShares U.S. Aerospace &amp; Defense ETF&nbsp;(BATS:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ITA#BATS">ITA</a>)&nbsp;and TCW Transform Systems ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NETZ#NYSE">NETZ</a>).
Price Action: GE shares are down 1.74% at $175.99 at the last check Monday.
Read Next:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/10/41493084/ge-aerospace-and-lilium-join-forces-to-turbocharge-evtol-safety-standards" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">GE Aerospace And Lilium Join Forces To Turbocharge eVTOL Safety Standards</a></li>
</ul>

Engine No. 1 ETF Trust Engine No. 1 Transform Climate ETF

NETZ

GE Aerospace Partners with Waygate Technologies To Elevate Engine Inspections With AI

GE Aerospace (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GE#NYSE">GE</a>) partnered with Lilium N.V. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LILM#NASDAQ">LILM</a>) to build a solid safety framework for eVTOLs <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/pressreleases/24/10/g41484550/lilium-ge-aerospace-partner-to-deliver-evtol-flight-safety" rel="noreferrer noopener">as they near commercial launch</a>.
As part of this partnership, GE Aerospace and Lilium will develop an OEM-level Flight Data Monitoring (FDM) or Flight Operations Quality Assurance (FOQA) program to oversee eVTOL safety across the entire fleet.
Additionally, the two companies will collaborate to offer a voluntary FDM program option for Lilium&#8217;s customers.
GE&#8217;s Event Measurement System platform will play a key role in Lilium&#8217;s aftermarket program, &#8220;POWER-ON,&#8221; which offers safe, efficient, and customer-focused solutions for Lilium Jet operators.
Through this platform, all Lilium customers will gain access to a suite of digital services designed to support daily operations with essential insights and actionable data.
Notably, eVTOLs are already in flight at dedicated demonstration and testing sites across the U.S., Europe, and Asia, with the first customer deliveries of the Lilium Jet expected in 2026. JP Morgan forecasts the market could reach up to $1 trillion by 2040.
Andrew Coleman, General Manager, GE Aerospace&#8217;s Software as a Service (SaaS) Group said, &#8220;Together with Lilium, a leader in the eVTOL space, we&#8217;re bringing together OEM-level flight data monitoring and quality assurance capabilities of EMS with Lilium&#8217;s eVTOL jet-related analytics platform to establish a robust safety foundation for eVTOL industry that will help to accelerate commercial scale adoption of this exciting new technology.&#8221;
Yesterday, GE Aerospace reported adjusted revenue growth of&nbsp;6%&nbsp;Y/Y to&nbsp;$8.943 billion&nbsp;and GAAP revenue of&nbsp;$9.84 billion. The&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/earnings/24/10/41450452/ge-aerospace-q3-earnings-orders-surge-lifts-earnings-outlook-more" rel="noreferrer noopener">analyst consensus was&nbsp;$9.022 billion</a>.
Investors can gain exposure to GE via IShares U.S. Aerospace &amp; Defense ETF&nbsp;(BATS:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ITA#BATS">ITA</a>)&nbsp;and TCW Transform Systems ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NETZ#NYSE">NETZ</a>).
Price Action: GE stock was up 4.1% at $184.03 and LILM was up 5.44% at $0.5040 at the last check Wednesday.
Photo via Midjourney
Read Next:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/24/10/41462917/ge-aerospaces-q3-results-solid-but-segments-tell-different-stories-analyst" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">GE Aerospace&#8217;s Q3 Results Solid, But Segments Tell Different Stories: Analyst</a></li>
</ul>

LILM

GE Aerospace And Lilium Join Forces To Turbocharge eVTOL Safety Standards

Goldman Sachs analyst Noah Poponak expresses their view on GE Aerospace&#8216;s (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GE#NYSE">GE</a>) <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/GE/analyst-ratings" rel="noreferrer noopener">third-quarter 2024 results</a>.
The company reported&nbsp;adjusted revenue growth of 6% Y/Y to $8.943 billion and GAAP revenue of $9.84 billion. The <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/earnings/24/10/41450452/ge-aerospace-q3-earnings-orders-surge-lifts-earnings-outlook-more" rel="noreferrer noopener">analyst consensus was $9.022 billion</a>.
GE still expects adjusted revenue growth in the high single digits. It now sees adjusted EPS of $4.20 – $4.35 (prior $3.95 – $4.20) <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/calendars/guidance" rel="noreferrer noopener">vs. the $4.25 consensus</a>.
The company now expects adjusted operating profit of $6.7 billion – $6.9 billion (prior $6.5 billion – $6.8 billion) and adjusted free cash flow of $5.6 billion – $5.8 billion (prior $5.3 billion – $5.6 billion).
The analyst writes that GE&#8217;s results are solid overall but mixed by segment. Market expectations were high, and segment EBIT fell short of consensus.
While commercial engines remain a key growth driver, the analyst says the defense segment underperformed due to lower revenue and margins.
Goldman Sachs rated the company &#8216;Buy&#8217;, with a price target of $201. The analyst expects EPS of $4.12 for FY24, $5.16 for FY25, and $6.30 for FY26.
Investors can gain exposure to the stock via IShares U.S. Aerospace &amp; Defense ETF&nbsp;(BATS:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ITA#BATS">ITA</a>)&nbsp;and TCW Transform Systems ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NETZ#NYSE">NETZ</a>).
Price Action: GE shares are down 8.69% at $177.36 at the last check Tuesday.
Photo by Ground Picture on Shutterstock
Read Next:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/earnings/24/10/41447996/us-stocks-remains-on-edge-ahead-of-flurry-of-earnings-from-lockheed-martin-gm-and-others-this-is-st" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">US Stocks Remains On Edge Ahead Of Flurry Of Earnings From Lockheed Martin, GM And Others: This Is Still A &#8216;Buy The Dip&#8217; Market, Says Expert</a></li>
</ul>

Earnings

Reiteration

Movers

GE Aerospace's Q3 Results Solid, But Segments Tell Different Stories: Analyst

The Israeli military confirmed on Thursday <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/asia/24/10/41385179/hamas-chief-oct-7-mastermind-yahya-sinwar-possibly-dead-idf-conducts-dna-tests-after-gaza-clash">the death of Yahya Sinwar</a>, the top leader of Hamas, with one word: &#8220;Eliminated.&#8221; 
What Happened: Israel Defense Forces killed Sinwar — Israel's most wanted target since the war with Hamas began on Oct. 7 — in a firefight in Gaza.
Sinwar orchestrated an assault that killed about 1,200 people and led to the abduction of over 200 others.
<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"> 
<div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">Eliminated: Yahya Sinwar.
&mdash; Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) <a href="https://twitter.com/IDF/status/1846957737487278263?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 17, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
</figure>
In a prepared <a href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/statements-releases/2024/10/17/statement-from-president-joe-biden-on-the-death-of-yahya-sinwar/">statement</a>, President Joe Biden said the IDF &#8220;relentlessly pursued Hamas's leaders&#8221; with the help of U.S. intelligence.
&#8220;There has rarely been a military campaign like this, with Hamas leaders living and moving through hundreds of miles of tunnels, organized in multiple stories underground, determined to protect themselves with no care for the civilians suffering above ground,&#8221; Biden said. 
&#8220;Today, however, proves once again that no terrorists anywhere in the world can escape justice, no matter how long it takes.&#8221;
Sinwar's body was retrieved after an exchange of fire on Wednesday, according to the <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/live/2024/10/17/world/israel-lebanon-iran-gaza-news?campaign_id=190&amp;emc=edit_ufn_20241017&amp;instance_id=137113&amp;nl=from-the-times&amp;regi_id=136109156&amp;segment_id=180692&amp;user_id=e415429009fa21c5b8b4141c24d72bca">New York Times</a>, citing Israeli authorities. His identity was verified using dental records and fingerprints that matched those on file, Israel Police said. There was no immediate response from Hamas regarding his death.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/10/41112728/us-boosts-military-presence-in-middle-east-deploys-fighter-squadrons-amid-rising-tensions-with-iran">US Boosts Military Presence In Middle East As Tensions Spike With Iran</a> 
Why It Matters: Sinwar's killing marks a significant development in the yearlong conflict. 
So far, the war in Gaza devastated the region and its people. Despite being only 141 square miles, Gaza is home to over 2 million people. 
Gaza's health ministry reports over 41,000 deaths. Per the Associated Press, Gaza's health ministry <a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-hamas-war-gaza-health-ministry-health-death-toll-59470820308b31f1faf73c703400b033">doesn't distinguish between civilians and combatants</a>. About 1.9 million Palestinians have been <a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-palestinians-hamas-war-anniversary-statistics-e61765035c725b3c8d4840e2bab565cd">displaced</a>.
Sinwar&#8217;s death also presents an &#8220;opportunity&#8221; to proceed with negotiations between Israel and Hamas and end the war, Vice President Kamala Harris said, per <a href="https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2024-10-17/harris-says-sinwar-s-death-offers-opportunity-to-end-gaza-war?srnd=phx-latest&amp;sref=TBDibEcD&amp;embedded-checkout=true">Bloomberg</a>. 
Both sides remain deadlocked over key issues. 
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu addressed the nation and promised the Israeli military would secure the release of all hostages. See below for coverage via CNN.
<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"> 
<div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<iframe loading="lazy" title="Reporter on what he found interesting from Netanyahu's remarks" width="500" height="281" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/8hrXuXFzUjA?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe>
</div>
</figure>
Defense exchange-traded funds (ETFs) at last check Thursday afternoon, were trending up with the exception of the SPDR S&amp;P Aerospace &amp; Defense ETF:
<ul>
<li>IShares U.S. Aerospace &amp; Defense ETF (BATS:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ITA#BATS">ITA</a>) rose 1.8% to $154.70.</li>
<li>Invesco Aerospace &amp; Defense ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PPA#NYSE">PPA</a>) is up 0.17% to $119.</li>
<li>SPDR S&amp;P Aerospace &amp; Defense ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XAR#NYSE">XAR</a>) is down 0.29% to $162.77.</li>
</ul>
Oil ETFs: 
<ul>
<li>The United States Oil Fund (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/USO#NYSE">USO</a>), was up 0.15% at $72.51.</li>
<li>The VanEck Oil Services ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/OIH#NYSE">OIH</a>) was down 0.25% at $286.69.</li>
</ul>
Now Read:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/asia/24/10/41336413/oil-prices-take-largest-plunge-in-over-a-year-as-israel-vows-to-spare-iranian-facilities-energy-stoc">Oil Prices Take Largest Plunge In Over A Year As Israel Vows To Spare Iranian Facilities</a></li>
</ul>
Image: Shutterstock.

Israeli Military, With Help Of US Intelligence, 'Relentlessly Pursued' Deceased Hamas Leader

The United States has issued a stark warning to Israel, urging the government to take swift and meaningful steps within the next 30 days to address the deteriorating <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/middle-east">humanitarian conditions in Gaza. </a>
Failure to act could result in potential restrictions on U.S. military aid, marking the strongest message sent by the Biden administration since the Israeli military offensive against Hamas began more than a year ago.
According to U.S. officials, Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin conveyed their concerns in a letter sent to Israeli officials on Sunday. The letter emphasized the urgent need for Israel to act, outlining specific measures that must be undertaken to alleviate the suffering of civilians in Gaza.
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Key Points From US Letter: Aid, Humanitarian Action Required</h3>
The letter highlighted several steps that Israel must take to reverse the worsening situation in Gaza:
<ul>
<li>Increase humanitarian aid access: Israel must allow a minimum of 350 aid trucks to enter Gaza daily. This would involve opening additional border crossings and ensuring the smooth flow of essential goods, such as food and medical supplies.</li>
<li>Ensure humanitarian pauses: Israel is urged to institute pauses in military operations to facilitate aid deliveries, vaccinations, and the movement of displaced civilians.</li>
<li>End forced evacuations: The U.S. specifically called for an end to forced evacuations of civilians in northern Gaza, allowing humanitarian organizations to access the area safely.</li>
</ul>
Failure to demonstrate progress on these measures, the U.S. warned, could have &#8220;serious implications&#8221; for Israel&#8217;s military aid under relevant U.S. laws.
The letter from Blinken and Austin said the U.S. government is particularly concerned about Israeli policies that could further limit the operations of humanitarian organizations like the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA).
The U.S. has set a clear deadline for Israel to demonstrate its commitment to improving the situation in Gaza. This 30-day window will be crucial in determining the future of U.S. military aid to Israel.
<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"> 
<div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">&#x1f6a8;&#x1f1fa;&#x1f1f8;&#x1f1ee;&#x1f1f1;Secretary of State Blinken &amp; Secretary of Defense Austin sent a letter on Monday to Israel demanding it takes steps within 30 days to improve the humanitarian situation in Gaza in order to avoid consequences in U.S. law for U.S. milirary aid to Israel. See letter here: <a href="https://t.co/N9DDMqsL7u">pic.twitter.com/N9DDMqsL7u</a>
&mdash; Barak Ravid (@BarakRavid) <a href="https://twitter.com/BarakRavid/status/1846182689222664471?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 15, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
</figure>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Market Reactions: U.S. Defense Stocks Slip, Israel ETFs Rise</h3>
On Tuesday, the iShares U.S. Aerospace &amp; Defense ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ITA#NYSE">ITA</a>) saw a slight decline of 0.5%, after hitting record highs earlier in the session.
Conversely, the VanEck Israel ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ISRA#NYSE">ISRA</a>) rose by 0.5%, marking its sixth consecutive session of gains.
Read Next:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/technicals/24/10/41340645/stock-of-the-day-goldman-sachs-blows-away-earnings-but-stock-may-be-due-for-a-pullback">Stock Of The Day: Goldman Sachs Blows Away Earnings, But Stock May Be Due For A Pullback</a></li>
</ul>
Photo: Shutterstock

Tech

ISRA

Defense Stocks Slip From Record Highs: US Says Military Aid To Israel Hangs On Gaza Humanitarian Conditions

Defense and aerospace stocks, as tracked by the iShares US Aerospace &amp; Defense ETF (BATS:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ITA#BATS">ITA</a>) have returned a remarkable 22% year-to-date in 2024; an aerospace expert weighed in on whether companies can keep up with sky-high valuations <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/commodities/24/10/41150239/investors-look-to-gold-as-middle-east-tensions-rise-how-israel-iran-conflict-could-impact-pri">fueled by tensions</a> in the Middle East.
The Aerospace Analyst: RBC analyst Ken Herbert reiterated Outperform ratings for the following aerospace companies in a note published Monday:
<ul>
<li>Boeing Co (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BA#NYSE">BA</a>), lowering its price target from $220 to $200.</li>
<li>General Electric Co (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GE#NYSE">GE</a>), raising its price target from $190 to $210.</li>
<li>General Dynamics Corp (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GD#NYSE">GD</a>), maintaining its price target at $320.</li>
<li>Airbus SE (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/EADSY#OTC">EADSY</a>), lowering its price target from 180 euros to 160 euros.</li>
</ul>
Industry Takeaways: Herbert noted the industry&#8217;s impressive performance in 2024.
&#8220;Investor sentiment into 3Q24 A&amp;D results is positive on defense stocks, with concerns about near-term incremental upside after the recent strength for many defense stocks. Sentiment seems universally bullish on the aerospace aftermarket, although these stocks appear about as crowded on the long side as we have seen,&#8221; the analyst said. &#8220;We believe the aero OE outlook is uncertain at best.&#8221;
The analyst noted his belief that aerospace valuations will hold in the near-to-mid term.
Boeing Takeaways: Herbert says that Boeing&#8217;s current risk-to-reward is favorable.
&#8220;We believe we are ~36 months into what should be a 4-to 5-year order cycle. Granted, the world is different today than it was for any prior cycle, but we expect demand for narrowbody aircraft to remain strong,&#8221; Herbert said.
The analyst believes that the ongoing labor strike at Boeing will be resolved before it releases its third-quarter earnings.
GE Aero Takeaways: Although Herbert raised General Electric&#8217;s price target, he simultaneously lowered expectations of 2024, 2025 and 2026 LEAP engine deliveries.
&#8220;While we are more cautious on revenue growth, we are raising our estimates for adj operating income and adj. EPS as GE Aero benefits from mix,&#8221; the analyst said. &#8220;We believe the healthy aftermarket demand fundamentals and continued favorable pricing on spare parts will offset downside risk to new LEAP deliveries, although investors will likely be focused on execution for this program.&#8221;
Herbert believes that the bear case for GE is &#8220;fading&#8221; amid efforts to derisk its balance sheet.
General Dynamics Takeaways: Herbert&#8217;s lowering of General Dynamics&#8217; price target comes amid pessimism in Gulfstream delivery estimates. The analyst sees headwinds ahead in delivering its G700 aircraft.
Herbert is still bullish on the company, with a perceived upside amid the continuing war in Ukraine.
Airbus Takeaways: The analyst&#8217;s lowered price target is attributed to lower delivery estimates in the near term. He believes the stock can perform well, even though the company will likely walk back its mid-decade target of 1,000 deliveries.
Herbert sees Airbus&#8217; core strengths as its strong backlog, cash position and margin expansion.
Also Read:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/asia/24/10/41336413/oil-prices-take-largest-plunge-in-over-a-year-as-israel-vows-to-spare-iranian-facilities-energy-stoc">Oil Prices Take Largest Plunge In Over A Year As Israel Vows To Spare Iranian Facilities: Energy Stocks Sink, Airlines, Cruise Lines Rally</a></li>
</ul>
Photo: Gorodenkoff/Shutterstock.com

European Aeronautic Defence And Space Unsponsored

EADSY

Aerospace Stocks Face Tough Questions: Can Boeing, GE, Airbus Justify Sky-High Valuations?

Boeing Company (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BA#NYSE">BA</a>) shares are trading higher on Tuesday. The company <a href="https://d18rn0p25nwr6d.cloudfront.net/CIK-0000012927/4d8edab4-f0b6-4cec-8b89-5b1f4a655cf8.pdf">inked</a> a $10 billion supplemental credit agreement <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/big-banks">with several big banks</a>.
Bank of America, Citibank, Goldman Sachs, and JPMorgan are on board as joint lead arrangers and bookrunners.
Boeing plans to pay a 0.5% funding fee on each advance under the credit agreement and a 0.50%-1.00% duration fee on outstanding advances after 90 to 270 days.
Non-SOFR loans will accrue interest at the higher of Citibank's base rate, federal funds rate plus 0.50%, or Adjusted Term SOFR plus 1.00%, with an additional 0.375%-1.00%, based on Boeing's credit rating.
SOFR loans will bear interest at Adjusted Term SOFR plus 1.375%-2.00%. Commitments end in 120 days, with advances maturing in 364 days.
The credit agreement limits Boeing's debt to 60% of total capital. It also restricts liens to $250 million, and allows mergers only if Boeing is the surviving entity.
Apart from this, Boeing disclosed a mixed shelf offering of up to $25 billion, which includes Senior and Subordinated Debt Securities, <a target="_blank" href="https://d18rn0p25nwr6d.cloudfront.net/CIK-0000012927/8cf7f199-191c-4c3e-8056-b2914fea83e1.pdf" rel="noreferrer noopener">Common </a>Stock, and Preferred Stock.
This week, Boeing announced a 10% workforce reduction of approximately 17,000 jobs in <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/earnings/24/10/41319026/boeings-q3-earnings-face-turbulence-strikes-layoffs-safety-woes-ahead" rel="noreferrer noopener">an effort to stem financial losses</a>.
Investors can gain exposure to the stock via&nbsp;IShares U.S.&nbsp;Aerospace &amp; Defense ETF&nbsp;(BATS:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ITA#BATS">ITA</a>) and&nbsp;Gabelli Commercial Aerospace and Defense ETF&nbsp;(NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GCAD#NYSE">GCAD</a>).
Price Action: BA shares are up 0.95% at $150.40 premarket at the last check Tuesday.
Read Next:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/10/41326434/boeing-employee-strike-enters-second-month-costing-airplane-maker-nearly-5b-the-stock-is-down-ov" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Boeing Employee Strike Enters Second Month, Costing Airplane Maker Nearly $5B: The Stock Is Down Over 4% As Operational Halts And Mounting Losses Impact Market Valuation</a></li>
</ul>
Image: Shutterstock

Boeing Shares Jump As Troubled Aerospace Company Inks $10B Supplemental Credit Agreement With Big Banks

United Nations Security Council members convened for an emergency session Wednesday in New York to address Israel, Lebanon, Iran and whether an all-out war in the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/middle-east">Middle East is preventable</a>.
What Happened: Israeli Ambassador Danny Danon, in his remarks to the UN Security Council, called Iran&#8217;s missile strike the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/global/24/10/41126038/iran-attacks-israel-with-missiles-middle-east-tensions-escalates-s-p-500-stocks-bitcoin-fall-as-oil">&#8220;largest&#8221; in Israel&#8217;s history</a>. 
&#8220;The council must understand the situation Israel is forced to live in. We are under attack,&#8221; Danon said, citing how holy sites were targeted. 
Israeli defense systems intercepted most of the 200 missiles Tuesday as they prepped for ground operations, the <a href="https://apnews.com/live/israel-lebanon-ground-operation-updates">Associated Press</a> reported.
&#8220;The world watched silently as Iran funded and directed attacks against us for the past year, arming and training their proxies for decades,&#8221; Danon added. &#8220;Now the world must step up. Iran must pay a heavy price for this attack. Anything less is complicity.&#8221;
As of early Wednesday afternoon, the meeting remained in session. See video below.
<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-4-3 wp-has-aspect-ratio"> 
<div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<iframe loading="lazy" title="LIVE: UN Security Council meeting on the Middle East" width="500" height="375" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/1VyjPJclLAI?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe>
</div>
</figure>
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/10/41143156/oil-prices-spike-energy-stocks-jump-after-irans-missile-attack-on-israel-what-investors-need-to-know">Oil Prices Spike, Energy Stocks Jump After Iran&#8217;s Missile Attack On Israel — What Investors Need To Know</a>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Bracing For Further Escalation</h3>
The UN meeting is taking place while Israeli troops&nbsp;battle Hezbollah militants&nbsp;inside Lebanon, making good on Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu&#8216;s&nbsp;vow to retaliate, per <a href="https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2024-10-02/israel-vows-retaliation-for-massive-iranian-missile-attack">Bloomberg</a>.
The Israeli army Wednesday suffered at least eight fatalities since the ground operation began, CNN <a href="https://www.cnn.com/world/live-news/israel-iran-missile-attack-middle-east-10-02-24-intl-hnk#cm1rx3x98000e3b6qp2nmm7pn">reported</a> citing Israel Defense Forces. 
Iran launched the attack against Israel following the recent killing of <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/09/41079860/israel-tightens-grip-hezbollah-leader-hassan-nasrallah-killed">Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah</a>. 
Since its formation in the early 1980s, Hezbollah — which the U.S. considers a terrorist organization — has received substantial support from Tehran, which views the group as an ally in advancing its influence in the Middle East.
The White House promised consequences for Iran's attack on Israel. On Tuesday, President Joe Biden reiterated at the start of a meeting with officials: &#8220;Make no mistake, the United States is fully, fully supportive of Israel.&#8221;
Market Reaction: Following the missile attacks from Iran on Israel, plus Tuesday&#8217;s <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/econ-s/24/10/41139919/private-sector-job-gains-outpace-forecasts-in-september-as-us-adds-143-000-jobs">job and economic data</a>, major stock indices dropped. As of early Tuesday afternoon:
<ul>
<li>The S&amp;P 500 was down slightly by 0.08%. </li>
<li>The Dow Jones was down by 0.02%. </li>
<li>The Nasdaq was up by 0.09%. </li>
</ul>
At last check, ETFs that track the indexes were up:
<ul>
<li>SPDR S&amp;P 500 ETF Trust (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SPY#NYSE">SPY</a>) was down 0.01% at $568.56 Tuesday.</li>
<li>SPDR Dow Jones Industrial Average ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DIA#NYSE">DIA</a>) was down slightly at $421.23.</li>
<li>The Invesco QQQ Trust (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/QQQ#NASDAQ">QQQ</a>), which tracks the Nasdaq 100, is up 0.22% to $482.33.</li>
</ul>
&#8220;Financial markets have reacted as one would expect to the heightened geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, with a bout of risk aversion sweeping through asset classes in the past 24 hours,&#8221; said Matthew Ryan, head of market strategy and global financial services at Ebury.
Equity markets are trading lower and, in currencies, the safe-havens have outperformed most of their peers, he adds. This includes the U.S. dollar, which remains buoyed following some hawkish <a href="https://www.federalreserve.gov/newsevents/speech/powell20240930a.htm">comments</a> from Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell on Monday.
The conflict is also causing broader concerns for inflation and central bank policy. Higher oil prices could undermine the U.S. Federal Reserve&#8217;s efforts to control inflation, potentially delaying future interest rate cuts, per <a href="https://www.timesofisrael.com/stock-markets-slump-oil-jumps-as-iran-attack-sparks-fear-of-all-out-war-in-mideast/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Times of Israel</a>.
What To Look For: Ryan says investors are &#8220;rightly fearful&#8221; that Israel&#8217;s retaliation could disrupt oil supplies. After all, Iran is the seventh-largest oil producer in the world. 
The price of gold and oil both spiked higher after the attack. The United States Oil Fund (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/USO#NYSE">USO</a>) was trading slightly higher on the day at $72.13 at last check while the SPDR Gold Trust (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GLD#NYSE">GLD</a>) is down 0.11% to $245.33 Wednesday. 
&#8220;The wider implication for markets is the rising possibility of a sharp move higher in global oil futures, and another period of elevated energy prices and consumer inflation,&#8221; Ryan says.
The ramifications will not be &#8220;anywhere near as severe&#8221; as those that followed Russia&#8217;s invasion of Ukraine, Ryan adds. &#8220;So far, at least, the moves in markets have been relatively contained.&#8221;
Defense ETFs, as of Wednesday afternoon, were trending up:
<ul>
<li>IShares U.S. Aerospace &amp; Defense ETF (BATS:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ITA#BATS">ITA</a>) rose 0.37% to $151.91.</li>
<li>Invesco Aerospace &amp; Defense ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PPA#NYSE">PPA</a>) is up 0.15% to $116.10. </li>
<li>SPDR S&amp;P Aerospace &amp; Defense ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XAR#NYSE">XAR</a>) is up 0.67% to $159.98. </li>
</ul>
Now Read: 
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/10/41112728/us-boosts-military-presence-in-middle-east-deploys-fighter-squadrons-amid-rising-tensions-with-iran">US Boosts Military Presence In Middle East As Tensions Spike With Iran</a> </li>
</ul>
Image: Shutterstock.

Broad U.S. Equity ETFs

Commodities

SPDR Dow Jones Industrial Average ETF Trust

Markets Turn Risk-Off As Israel, Iran Clash: Investors 'Rightly Fearful' Of Oil Disruption, Strategist Says

Taking A Defensive Stance On Defense Stocks

The economic impact of a large-scale war would be profound, affecting various sectors of the financial markets, including stocks, commodities, forex, and cryptocurrencies.


Thomas R. CarperSenate (D-DE)	$1K - $15K	etf	Purchase	Feb 03, 2022	Jan 31, 2022	Senate
Thomas R. CarperSenate (D-DE)	$1K - $15K	etf	Purchase	Feb 03, 2022	Jan 26, 2022	Senate
Thomas R. CarperSenate (D-DE)	$1K - $15K	etf	Purchase	Feb 03, 2022	Jan 18, 2022	Senate

Government Trades

iShares U.S. Aerospace & Defense ETF

top performing ITA trades

Popular Channels

Tools & Features

Partners & Contributors

About Benzinga