3 Overvalued Defense Stocks to Sell Before the 2024 Election
Written by Emily J. Thompson, Senior Investment Analyst
Source: Business Insider
- Defense Companies and Elections: Defense companies offer portfolio stability during recessions but face risks of overvaluation and stock sell-offs before election cycles, especially with significant government changes.
- RTX Corporation (RTX): RTX Corporation, a favorite among institutional investors, may see a decline in stock value due to potential funding cuts for Ukraine under a Republican-controlled Senate or if Donald Trump secures another term.
- Thales Group (THLLY): Thales Group, involved in weapons development with Elbit Systems, relies on U.S. spending for NATO and Israel, making it vulnerable to potential budget cuts under a Trump presidency.
- Leonardo DRS (DRS): Leonardo DRS, a critical provider for the F-35 and U.S. military programs, faces political challenges similar to Thales and could be impacted by cost-cutting measures if procurement programs are canceled.
- Potential Impact of Election Results: The upcoming U.S. presidential and congressional elections in November could significantly affect defense companies' revenues and future performance based on government policies and spending decisions.
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Analyst Views on RTX
Wall Street analysts forecast RTX stock price to fall over the next 12 months. According to Wall Street analysts, the average 1-year price target for RTX is 195.77 USD with a low forecast of 168.00 USD and a high forecast of 215.00 USD. However, analyst price targets are subjective and often lag stock prices, so investors should focus on the objective reasons behind analyst rating changes, which better reflect the company's fundamentals.
14 Analyst Rating
9 Buy
5 Hold
0 Sell
Moderate Buy
Current: 199.460
Low
168.00
Averages
195.77
High
215.00
Current: 199.460
Low
168.00
Averages
195.77
High
215.00
About RTX
RTX Corporation is an aerospace and defense company, which provides advanced systems and services for commercial, military, and government customers worldwide. The Company operates through three segments: Collins Aerospace, Pratt & Whitney, and Raytheon. Collins Aerospace segment provides technologically advanced aerospace and defense products and aftermarket service solutions for civil and military aircraft manufacturers, commercial airlines, and regional, business and general aviation, as well as for defense and commercial space operations. The Pratt & Whitney segment supplies aircraft engines for commercial, military, business jet, and general aviation customers. The Raytheon segment provides defensive and offensive threat detection, tracking and mitigation capabilities for the United States and foreign government and commercial customers. The Raytheon designs, develops, and provides advanced capabilities in integrated air and missile defense, smart weapons, missiles and others.
About the author
Emily J. Thompson
Emily J. Thompson, a Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) with 12 years in investment research, graduated with honors from the Wharton School. Specializing in industrial and technology stocks, she provides in-depth analysis for Intellectia’s earnings and market brief reports.
RTX Reports Strong Q4 Results, 2026 Guidance in Line with Consensus
- Earnings Beat: RTX reported Q4 earnings of $1.55 per share, exceeding the consensus estimate of $1.47, indicating sustained profitability that is likely to positively impact stock performance.
- Significant Revenue Growth: The company achieved Q4 revenues of $24.2 billion, 6.8% above expectations, with Pratt revenues growing 25% year-on-year, reflecting strong market demand and business performance.
- 2026 Guidance: Management guided for adjusted sales of $92.0-$93.0 billion and adjusted earnings of $6.60-$6.80 per share for 2026, aligning with consensus estimates, which demonstrates confidence in future growth.
- Stable Free Cash Flow: RTX's free cash flow guidance of $8.25-$8.75 billion meets the consensus of $8.56 billion, showcasing robust cash flow management that enhances investor confidence.
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RTX Secures $197 Million Defense Contract from U.S. Air Force
- Contract Details: RTX's Raytheon unit has secured a contract valued at approximately $197 million from the U.S. Air Force Life Cycle Management Center for the production, engineering support, and aircraft integration of an advanced reconnaissance system for Poland's air force.
- Technological Advantage: The MS-110 Multispectral Reconnaissance System employs artificial intelligence and machine learning to rapidly process wide-area and long-range imagery, enhancing surveillance, responsiveness, and survivability for allied forces, marking Poland as the first NATO member to receive this system.
- Compatibility and Integration: The MS-110 system can be carried by fighters, maritime patrol planes, special mission aircraft, and medium-altitude drones, with assembly and integration work taking place in Westford, Massachusetts, and completion expected by August 2031.
- Financial Performance: RTX reported fourth-quarter sales of $24.238 billion, a 12% increase year-over-year, and guided for adjusted sales of $92.0 billion to $93.0 billion for 2026, indicating strong growth potential in the defense sector.
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