Lockheed Martin에 대한 매도 수량은 투자자에게 Lockheed Martin의 주식 하락에 베팅하는 정도를 알려줍니다. 매도 수량 데이터는 2주마다 업데이트됩니다.

Lockheed Martin (NYSE:LMT) 주식, 공매도 수량 보고

Lockheed Martin

Lockheed Martin is the world's largest defense contractor and has dominated the Western market for high-end fighter aircraft since it won the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter program in 2001. Lockheed's largest segment is aeronautics, which derives upward of two-thirds of its revenue from the F-35. Lockheed's remaining segments are rotary and mission systems, mainly encompassing the Sikorsky helicopter business; missiles and fire control, which creates missiles and missile defense systems; and space systems, which produces satellites and receives equity income from the United Launch Alliance joint venture.

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월스트리트는 목요일에 정부 셧다운을 막으려는 시도가 실패한 후 금요일에 워싱턴 D.C.에서의 발전을 주시하고 있다. 일부 주식은 하루가 지나고 자정 마감 시한이 다가오면서 불안한 모습을 보이고 있다. 무슨 일이 있었나: 하원은 마이크 존슨(공화당-루이지애나) 하원의장이 제안한 비상 계획을 투표 몇 시간 만에 거부했다. 이 제안은 필요한 2/3의 찬성을 얻지 못했다.

美 정부 폐쇄 위협: 협상이 실패하면 휴가 여행 및 급여 지연 가능성 대두

General

최근 일론 머스크가 전통적인 유인 항공기보다 드론 전쟁을 지지하는 발언을 한 후, 전문가들은 이러한 전환의 실현 가능성에 대해 논의하고 있다. 이 대화는 유인 전투기를 드론으로 교체했을 때의 잠재적인 운영 및 산업적 결과에 대해 광범위한 논의를 촉발했다.

전문가들은 유인 전투기를 드론으로 대체하는 것의 실행 가능성을 의심

PLTR

TSLA

데이터 분석 회사 팔란티어 테크놀로지스(NYSE:PLTR)의 주가는 육사-해사 미식축구 경기에서 회사의 경영진이 주요 정치인들과 함께 있는 모습을 보인 후 로빈후드의 야간 거래에서 3% 이상 급등했다. 

팔란티어, 야간 로빈후드 거래에서 3% 이상 급등한 이유는?

Lockheed Martin Corp

LASER MASTER INTL INC by Laser Master International, Inc.

Laser Master International Inc

Wall Street is watching for developments in Washington, D.C. Friday after <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42607744/house-rejects-trump-endorsed-backup-plan-to-prevent-government-shutdown-and-suspend-debt-limit-lawmakers-chant-he">Thursday's failed attempt</a> to avert a government shutdown. Some stocks remain wobbly as the day wears on and a midnight deadline approaches. 
What Happened: The House turned down a contingency plan proposed by Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La) only hours before the vote Thursday. The proposal failed to secure the necessary two-thirds majority. 
Backed by President-elect Donald Trump, the funding bill ran into trouble mainly from Democrats due to its inclusion of a two-year debt limit suspension. The bill would have maintained government funding&nbsp;at existing levels through mid-March, suspended the debt limit&nbsp;for two years and allocated approximately&nbsp;$100 billion in disaster relief&nbsp;and about $10 billion for&nbsp;farmer economic assistance.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Market Movement, Sectors Affected </h2>
Defense Sector: Companies in the defense industry, such as Lockheed Martin (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LMT#NYSE">LMT</a>) , Northrop Grumman (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NOC#NYSE">NOC</a>) and L3Harris Technologies (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LHX#NYSE">LHX</a>) often depend heavily on government contracts. During a shutdown, delays in contract awards and payments can occur, potentially impacting cash flow and stock performance.
Health Care Sector: Firms that receive substantial revenue from government health care programs, like Medicare and Medicaid, might experience payment delays during the shutdown. This could affect companies such as UnitedHealth Group (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/UNH#NYSE">UNH</a>) and Humana (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/HUM#NYSE">HUM</a>).
Aerospace Sector: Aerospace companies that rely on federal contracts or regulatory approvals could face delays, potentially affecting their operations and stock prices. These stocks include Lockheed Martin and Boeing (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BA#NYSE">BA</a>)
Consumer, Retail Sectors: A shutdown can lead to furloughs for federal employees, resulting in delayed paychecks. This reduction in disposable income may decrease consumer spending over the holidays, adversely affecting retail companies and consumer goods manufacturers.
Financial Sector: Government shutdowns can delay economic reports and data releases, creating uncertainty in financial markets. Naturally, this uncertainty could lead to increased market volatility, impacting financial institutions and investment firms.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Holiday Travelers, Take Note</h2>
With the busy holiday season upon us and the Transportation Security Administration expecting to screen up to 40 million air travelers in the coming weeks, air traffic controllers and essential airport workers could be doing their jobs without the prospect of a paycheck.
Before the Capitol moved closer to a shutdown, the AAA predicted over 119 million people would hit the roads over the holidays, <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2024/12/20/travel/government-shutdown-travel.html">noted</a> the NY Times. If no funding solution is reached by midnight, the already crowded highways could be even more so as planes and trains fill up or, worse, face cancellations. No matter what happens in D.C., Amtrak is expected to keep the trains running on schedule.
Now Read:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/economics/macro-economic-events/24/12/42619788/market-volatility-halts-on-soft-inflation-data-yet-traders-remain-wary-of-fighting-the-fed-10-etfs-moving-friday">Market Volatility Halts On Soft Inflation Data, Yet Traders Remain Wary Of Fighting The Fed: 10 ETFs Moving Friday</a></li>
</ul>
Photo via Shutterstock

Government Shutdown Threat: Holiday Travel, Paychecks Could Face Delays If No Deal Reached

New Street Research analyst Pierre Ferragu has expressed support for Tesla Inc. CEO Elon Musk&#8216;s upcoming role in the newly announced Department of Government Efficiency while acknowledging the challenges ahead in reforming federal operations.
What Happened: &#8220;Will be fascinating to see DOGE at work: Elon&#8217;s method in a government environment,&#8221; Ferragu wrote on X on Thursday, noting the potential resistance from &#8220;lawmakers &amp; civil servants defending their personal interest.&#8221;
The Tesla CEO&#8217;s approach to government reform has drawn attention from notable figures including Walter Isaacson, an American journalist known for his acclaimed biographies of influential figures including Henry Kissinger, Benjamin Franklin, Albert Einstein, Steve Jobs, Jennifer Doudna, and most recently, Musk himself. 
Isaacson recently appeared on CNBC&#8217;s &#8216;Squawk Box&#8217; to discuss Musk&#8217;s new challenge in leading the DOGE and his relationship with Trump.
Isaacson stated that Musk&#8217;s handling of DOGE will be distinct from his previous approach with Twitter, now X, where he reduced the workforce by 80% to increase efficiency. Unlike his private ventures, DOGE will be a federal agency, meaning Musk won't be directly paying employees. 
Isaacson also pointed out that Musk holds significant influence in the defense sector and noted that Trump&#8217;s support will play a key role in shaping Congress&#8217;s response.
The comments follow President-elect Donald Trump&#8216;s November announcement appointing Musk and former presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy to lead DOGE, a new initiative aimed at restructuring federal agencies and reducing the government&#8217;s $6.5 trillion annual spending. The department is scheduled to <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">complete its work by Jul. 4, 2026</a>.
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<div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">Will be fascinating to see DOGE at work: Elon's method in a government environment, with much more random individual agency (lawmakers &amp; civil servants giving the middle finger defending their personal interest) I'd root for DOGE and see them successful. It is going to be a… <a href="https://t.co/IroQKvB9Mh">https://t.co/IroQKvB9Mh</a>
&mdash; Pierre Ferragu (@p_ferragu) <a href="https://twitter.com/p_ferragu/status/1869833273469481214?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 19, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
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See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/12/42608297/tom-lee-explains-why-fewer-cuts-in-2025-could-boost-the-market-urges-investors-to-buy-the-dip-amid-recent-volatility">Tom Lee Explains Why &#8216;Fewer Cuts In 2025&#8217; Could Boost The Market, Urges Investors To &#8216;Buy The Dip&#8217; Amid Recent Volatility</a>
Why It Matters: Musk, who has been vocal about reducing government expenditures, called the initiative one that would &#8220;send shockwaves through the system.&#8221; 
His appointment comes as he continues to challenge <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">traditional government spending approaches</a>, recently criticizing military programs like Lockheed Martin Corp.&#8216;s F-35 program, estimated to cost $1.8 trillion.
Financial experts have weighed in on the potential impact. InCred Global Wealth U.K. analyst Mario Georgiou suggests the initiative could yield annual savings between $50-100 billion, though this represents a small portion of the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/11/42131911/donald-trump-appointed-doge-to-have-marginal-impact-saving-50-100-billion-says-analyst-as-elon-musk-aims-to-target-500-billion-plus-in-federal-expenditures">projected $6.7 trillion federal budget</a>.
The department&#8217;s mandate includes restructuring federal agencies, reducing regulations, and implementing accountability measures. While expressing optimism about DOGE&#8217;s potential success, Ferragu noted it would be &#8220;a fascinating tough fight,&#8221; highlighting the complexity of bringing private sector efficiency to government operations.
Read Next: 
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42608267/meta-flexes-movie-gen-ai-as-instagram-boss-teases-video-editing-magic-for-2025">Instagram Boss Shows How You Can Turn Yourself Into A Puppet — And That&#8217;s Just The Beginning</a></li>
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Image Via Shutterstock 
Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.

Elon Musk's DOGE Role In Government Set For 'Fascinating Tough Fight,' Says Analyst — Walter Isaacson Sees Challenges For Tesla CEO's Federal Path

Investors with significant funds have taken a bearish position in Lockheed Martin (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LMT#NYSE">LMT</a>), a development that retail traders should be aware of.
This was brought to our attention today through our monitoring of publicly accessible options data at Benzinga. The exact nature of these investors remains a mystery, but such a major move in LMT usually indicates foreknowledge of upcoming events.
Today, Benzinga's options scanner identified 10 options transactions for Lockheed Martin. This is an unusual occurrence. The sentiment among these large-scale traders is mixed, with 10% being bullish and 50% bearish. Of all the options we discovered, 9 are puts, valued at $761,454, and there was a single call, worth $93,440.
<h3>Expected Price Movements</h3>
Taking into account the Volume and Open Interest on these contracts, it appears that whales have been targeting a price range from $430.0 to $560.0 for Lockheed Martin over the last 3 months. 
<h3>Analyzing Volume &amp; Open Interest</h3>
In today's trading context, the average open interest for options of Lockheed Martin stands at 352.1, with a total volume reaching 287.00. The accompanying chart delineates the progression of both call and put option volume and open interest for high-value trades in Lockheed Martin, situated within the strike price corridor from $430.0 to $560.0, throughout the last 30 days.
<h3>Lockheed Martin Option Volume And Open Interest Over Last 30 Days</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1734541239_0.png" alt="Options Call Chart" />
<h3>Significant Options Trades Detected:</h3>

<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Symbol</th>
<th>PUT/CALL</th>
<th>Trade Type</th>
<th>Sentiment</th>
<th>Exp. Date</th>
<th>Ask</th>
<th>Bid</th>
<th>Price</th>
<th>Strike Price</th>
<th>Total Trade Price</th>
<th>Open Interest</th>
<th align="right">Volume</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>LMT</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>01/16/26</td>
<td>$24.9</td>
<td>$24.4</td>
<td>$24.9</td>
<td>$450.00</td>
<td>$164.3K</td>
<td>209</td>
<td align="right">66</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>LMT</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>NEUTRAL</td>
<td>03/21/25</td>
<td>$42.0</td>
<td>$40.6</td>
<td>$41.3</td>
<td>$520.00</td>
<td>$123.9K</td>
<td>236</td>
<td align="right">36</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>LMT</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>01/15/27</td>
<td>$37.4</td>
<td>$37.3</td>
<td>$37.4</td>
<td>$560.00</td>
<td>$93.4K</td>
<td>48</td>
<td align="right">25</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>LMT</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>NEUTRAL</td>
<td>01/17/25</td>
<td>$18.7</td>
<td>$18.1</td>
<td>$18.4</td>
<td>$500.00</td>
<td>$91.9K</td>
<td>1.1K</td>
<td align="right">53</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>LMT</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>01/03/25</td>
<td>$29.9</td>
<td>$27.7</td>
<td>$28.53</td>
<td>$515.00</td>
<td>$85.5K</td>
<td>64</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

<h3>About Lockheed Martin</h3>
Lockheed Martin is the world's largest defense contractor and has dominated the Western market for high-end fighter aircraft since it won the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter program in 2001. Lockheed's largest segment is aeronautics, which derives upward of two-thirds of its revenue from the F-35. Lockheed's remaining segments are rotary and mission systems, mainly encompassing the Sikorsky helicopter business; missiles and fire control, which creates missiles and missile defense systems; and space systems, which produces satellites and receives equity income from the United Launch Alliance joint venture.
Having examined the options trading patterns of Lockheed Martin, our attention now turns directly to the company. This shift allows us to delve into its present market position and performance
<h3>Where Is Lockheed Martin Standing Right Now?</h3>
<ul>
<li>With a trading volume of 321,529, the price of LMT is down by -0.84%, reaching $486.5.</li>
<li>Current RSI values indicate that the stock is may be oversold.</li>
<li>Next earnings report is scheduled for 34 days from now.</li>
</ul>
<h3>What Analysts Are Saying About Lockheed Martin</h3>
1 market experts have recently issued ratings for this stock, with a consensus target price of $543.0.
Unusual Options Activity Detected: Smart Money on the Move
Benzinga Edge's Unusual Options board spots potential market movers before they happen. See what positions big money is taking on your favorite stocks. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/premium/ideas/benzinga-edge-checkout/?t=Be8be9arja3be22bz20&amp;utm_source=benzinga-insights">Click here for access</a>. 
&#x2A; An analyst from Wells Fargo persists with their Equal-Weight rating on Lockheed Martin, maintaining a target price of $543. 
Options trading presents higher risks and potential rewards. Astute traders manage these risks by continually educating themselves, adapting their strategies, monitoring multiple indicators, and keeping a close eye on market movements. Stay informed about the latest Lockheed Martin options trades with real-time alerts from <a href="https://benzinga.grsm.io/register174">Benzinga Pro</a>.

Options

Decoding Lockheed Martin's Options Activity: What's the Big Picture?

Lockheed Martin Integrates IBM Granite Into Its AI Factory Tools

LPTH

LightPath Technologies Highlights Strategic Shift To Advanced Optics And Imaging Systems, Defense Growth With $500M-$1B U.S. Army Missile Project, Black Diamond Glass Innovation, Commercial Expansion With Mantis Camera, And Leadership Enhancements For Global Expansion

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:
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<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.

Large Cap

iShares Dow Jones US Aerospace & Defense Index Fund

SHLD

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

In the wake of&nbsp;Elon Musk&#8216;s recent comments advocating for drone warfare over traditional manned aircraft, experts are now deliberating the practicality of such a transition. The conversation has sparked widespread discussion about the potential operational and industrial consequences of replacing manned fighter jets with drones.
What Happened: Experts are questioning the viability of drones fully replacing manned aircraft, following comments by&nbsp;Musk. The discussion centers around the operational and industrial implications of such a shift, The Financial Times&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ft.com/content/4598afaf-8f1c-45b3-8e69-d4b246ebeb92">reported</a> on Tuesday. 
According to the report, the complete phasing out of piloted fighters is considered improbable by many experts due to significant operational and industrial impacts.&nbsp;Justin Bronk, a&nbsp;senior research fellow at the&nbsp;Royal United Services Institute, emphasized that fighter jets perform numerous tasks that current unmanned systems struggle to replicate.
See Also:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42495782/crypto-market-predicted-to-surge-to-all-time-highs-by-late-2025-but-a-30-drop-in-bitcoin-prices-could-come-first?itm_source=parsely-api" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Crypto Market Predicted To Surge To All-Time Highs By Late 2025, But A 30% Drop In Bitcoin Prices Could C</a>
Bronk noted that the presence of a pilot is crucial for making judgments and providing reassurance, tasks that drones cannot yet handle effectively. Additionally, drones face challenges such as limited range and vulnerability to electronic warfare, making them less viable as sole replacements for manned aircraft.
Byron Callan&nbsp;of Capital Alpha Partners highlighted that if drones were the ultimate solution, countries like Ukraine and China would not be investing in manned combat aircraft.&nbsp;
Mark Gunzinger&nbsp;from the Mitchell Institute argued that future military capabilities would rely on a&nbsp;combination of both crewed and&nbsp;uncrewed systems and that AI will "not replace what humans bring to the fight.&#8221;
Why It Matters: The debate was ignited by <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/11/42157649/trumps-doge-co-lead-elon-musk-slams-lockheed-martins-f-35-fighter-jets-advocates-drone-warfare-as-pentagon-defends-1-8-trillion-program">Musk&#8217;s criticism</a> of the Lockheed Martin (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LMT#NYSE">LMT</a>) -made F-35 stealth fighter program, where he advocated for drone warfare. Musk, recently appointed by Donald Trump to co-lead the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), shared a video of drone swarms, questioning the continued investment in manned jets like the F-35.
Previously, in June, Musk had expressed his belief that&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/24/06/39160140/elon-musk-on-future-warfare-putting-humans-in-aircraft-just-slows-them-down">drones are the future</a>&nbsp;of warfare, suggesting that human pilots slow down aircraft. His comments underscore a significant shift in military aviation, highlighting the potential advantages of drones in terms of speed and safety.
Read Next:&nbsp;
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/24/12/42497173/investment-guru-peter-lynch-if-you-cant-explain-to-an-11-year-old-in-2-minutes-or-less-why-you-own-the-stock-you-shouldnt-own-it?itm_source=parsely-api" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Investment Guru Peter Lynch: &#8216;If You Can&#8217;t Explain To An 11-Year-Old In 2 Minutes Or Less Why You Own The Stock, You Shouldn&#8217;t Own It&#8217;</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.
Photo via Shutterstock

As Elon Musk Takes On Lockheed Martin-Made F-35s: Experts Question Feasibility Of Replacing Manned Fighter Jets With Drones

Reported Earlier, Lockheed Martin Launches Seventh GPS III Satellite, Accelerating Space Force's Next-Gen Constellation Modernization

Palantir Technologies Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PLTR#NYSE">PLTR</a>) shares jumped more than 3% in overnight trading on Robinhood following the company&#8217;s high-profile presence at the Army-Navy football game, where its executives were spotted alongside key political figures.
What Happened: The data analytics company&#8217;s stock, which closed at $76.07 on Friday after gaining 3.92% in regular trading, continued its upward momentum as images of an advertisement circulated on social media showing Palantir executives, including Chief Technology Officer Shyam Sankar and co-founder Joe Lonsdale, at the prestigious military matchup.
<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">Joe Lonsdale (CoFounder) &amp; Shyam Sankar (CTO) of Palantir at the Army Navy Game! <a href="https://t.co/NJqgzJgpW6">pic.twitter.com/NJqgzJgpW6</a>
&mdash; amit (@amitisinvesting) <a href="https://twitter.com/amitisinvesting/status/1867942733299720692?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 14, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
</figure>
The event gained additional attention when Tesla Inc. CEO Elon Musk responded with an American flag emoji to a social media post showing President-elect Donald Trump and other officials at the game, where Palantir&#8217;s logo was prominently displayed.
<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"> 
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">Iconic &#x1f525; <a href="https://t.co/AhnMftg7Jw">pic.twitter.com/AhnMftg7Jw</a>
&mdash; Autism Capital &#x1f9e9; (@AutismCapital) <a href="https://twitter.com/AutismCapital/status/1868062856375312689?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 14, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">&#x1f1fa;&#x1f1f8;
&mdash; Elon Musk (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1868097801965715862?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 15, 2024</a></blockquote>
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This latest surge follows a string of positive developments for Palantir, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42495649/microstrategy-palantir-axon-added-to-nasdaq-100-super-micro-computer-moderna-illumina-exit-the-index">including its recent addition to the Nasdaq 100 index</a>, effective Dec. 23, and expansion of government contracts.
The company&#8217;s market value has now surpassed traditional defense contractor Lockheed Martin Corp., <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/11/41891026/palantir-overtakes-lockheed-martin-in-market-cap-how-does-the-messi-of-ai-stack-up-against-the-traditional-defense-player">reaching $173 billion</a>.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/12/42500865/ark-invests-cathie-wood-predicts-rapid-robotaxi-market-shift-as-waymo-gains-on-lyft-in-san-francisco">Ark Invest&#8217;s Cathie Wood Predicts Rapid Robotaxi Market Shift As Waymo Gains On Lyft In San Francisco</a>
Why It Matters: Wedbush Securities Managing Director Dan Ives has labeled Palantir the &#8220;Messi of AI,&#8221; predicting 2025 will be a breakout year for the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42453057/palantir-positioned-to-become-the-next-oracle-in-2025-says-dan-ives-messi-of-ai-set-for-breakout-year">company&#8217;s artificial intelligence platform</a>.
The company <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/legal/24/12/42292744/whats-going-on-with-palantir-technologies-stock-today-9">recently secured a $36.8 million expanded contract</a> with U.S. Special Operations Command and achieved FedRAMP High Authorization for its Federal Cloud Service.
Adding to the momentum, reports indicate Sankar is being <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/global/24/12/42331892/trump-eyes-shyam-sankar-for-pentagon-role-while-palantir-gains-from-border-crisis-contracts-analyst-says-this-is-a-win-for-the-stock">considered for a top Pentagon research</a> and engineering position in the incoming administration. This development comes as Palantir continues to strengthen its government partnerships, including significant contracts with Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
The company&#8217;s CEO Alex Karp has maintained a firm stance on government collaboration, stating in company filings, &#8220;We stand by [government clients] when it is convenient, and when it is not.&#8221;
Read Next:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/12/42500701/trumps-security-adviser-pick-warns-of-gaps-in-our-agencies-amid-growing-drone-sightings-across-us-calls-for-expanding-israels-iron-dome-for-defense">Trump&#8217;s Security Adviser Pick Warns Of &#8216;Gaps In Our Agencies&#8217; Amid Growing Drone Sightings Across US, Calls For Expanding Israel&#8217;s Iron Dome For Defense</a></li>
</ul>
Image via Flickr
Disclaimer:&nbsp;This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.

Palantir Surges Over 3% In Overnight Trading After Army-Navy Game Spotlight, Elon Musk And Trump's Presence, And Nasdaq 100 Inclusion

Benzinga examined the prospects for<a href="http://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas"> many investors&#8217; favorite stocks</a> over the last week — here&#8217;s a look at some of our top stories.
The Dow dropped 1.8% this week, while the S&amp;P 500 fell 0.6%, ending a three-week winning streak. Meanwhile, the Nasdaq gained 0.3%, continuing its climb, driven by optimism in tech and artificial intelligence. 
The Nasdaq 100, boosted by the Magnificent Seven, reached record highs, approaching the 22,000 mark and logging a 30% year-to-date gain. Five of the group's stocks, including Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAPL#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>) and Meta Platforms Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/META#NASDAQ">META</a>), hit new highs, with their combined market value <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/economics/macro-economic-events/24/12/42492966/ai-driven-rally-pushes-tech-stocks-to-records-broadcom-enters-trillion-dollar-club-inflation-data-flashes-warning-signal-this-week-in-the-markets">surpassing $18 trillion.</a>
Inflationary pressures also persisted in November, with the Consumer Price Index rising 2.7% year-over-year, marking the second consecutive annual increase and presenting challenges for the Federal Reserve's 2% target. Shelter costs, which rose 0.3%, accounted for 40% of the monthly CPI gain, underscoring the sticky nature of inflation despite <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/economics/macro-economic-events/24/12/42436676/inflation-rises-as-expected-in-november-sustain-hopes-for-next-weeks-fed-interest-rate-cut">earlier signs of disinflation.</a>
Benzinga provides daily reports on the stocks most popular with investors. Here are a few of this past week&#8217;s most bullish and bearish posts that are worth another look.
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">The Bulls</h3>
&#8220;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/24/12/42449593/tesla-stock-is-analysts-top-2025-sector-pick-elon-musks-political-involvement-will-accelerate-teslas-journey-beyond-autos">Tesla Is Analyst&#8217;s Top 2025 Stock Pick: Elon Musk Political Involvement May &#8216;Accelerate&#8217; EV Maker Beyond Autos</a>,&#8221; by <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/chris-katje">Chris Katje</a>, highlights Tesla Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TSLA#NASDAQ">TSLA</a>) as an analyst&#8217;s top automotive pick for 2025, citing Elon Musk's political influence as a catalyst for Tesla&#8217;s expansion into AI, robotics, and renewable energy beyond its core automotive business.
&#8220;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/24/12/42405504/dogecoin-can-touch-18-if-things-go-wild-says-influential-crypto-trader-thankful-for-the-dip-and-will-buy-more">Dogecoin Can Touch $18 If Things &#8216;Go Wild,&#8217; Says Influential Crypto Trader: &#8216;Thankful For The Dip And Will Buy More&#8217;</a>,&#8221; by <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/aniket-verma">Aniket Verma</a>, shares a crypto analyst&#8217;s bullish prediction for Dogecoin (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/doge/usd">DOGE</a>), targeting $3 with a potential high of $18 in a &#8220;wild&#8221; scenario, while using dips between $0.40 and $0.30 to increase holdings early in the bull cycle.
&#8220;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/24/12/42433049/microstrategy-nasdaq-100-inclusion-on-the-horizon-could-spell-59-upside-says-bernstein">MicroStrategy: Nasdaq 100 Inclusion On The Horizon Could Spell 59% Upside, Says Bernstein</a>,&#8221; by <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/murtuza-merchant">Murtuza Merchant</a>, highlights the significance of MicroStrategy Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MSTR#NASDAQ">MSTR</a>) joining the Nasdaq 100. Bernstein projects the move could enhance visibility, drive $2.1 billion in ETF inflows, and support a $600 price target, underpinned by the company's Bitcoin-centric growth strategy.
For additional bullish calls of the past week, check out the following:
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/24/12/42433831/bitcoin-to-200000-ethereum-to-7000-solana-to-750-in-2025-predicts-bitwise">Bitcoin To $200,000, Ethereum To $7,000, Solana To $750 In 2025, Predicts Bitwise</a>
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42453057/palantir-positioned-to-become-the-next-oracle-in-2025-says-dan-ives-messi-of-ai-set-for-breakout-year">Palantir Positioned To Become &#8216;The Next&#8217; Oracle In 2025, Says Dan Ives: &#8216;Messi Of AI&#8217; Set For Breakout Year</a>
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/space/24/12/42412982/russell-2000-high-flyers-4-stocks-shaping-2024-with-quantum-ai-nuclear-space">Russell 2000 High Flyers: 4 Stocks Shaping 2024 With Quantum, AI, Nuclear, Space</a>
The Bears
&#8220;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/legal/24/12/42404352/nvidia-china-antitrust-probe-may-remain-unsolved-in-near-term-says-top-analyst-investors-should-be-prepared-for-increased-scrutiny">Nvidia China Antitrust Probe May &#8216;Remain Unsolved&#8217; In Near Term Says Top Analyst; Investors Should Be Prepared For Increased Scrutiny</a>,&#8221; by <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/ananya-gairola">Ananya Gairola</a>, discusses China&#8217;s investigation into NVIDIA Corp. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVDA#NASDAQ">NVDA</a>) for potential anti-competitive practices, with TF Securities&#8217; Ming-Chi Kuo predicting limited short-term financial impact but warning of escalating scrutiny, including possible future CUDA-related probes.
&#8220;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/global/24/12/42402629/trump-to-change-dollar-stores-for-good-dollar-tree-exec-says-prepared-to-act">Trump To Change Dollar Stores For Good? Dollar Tree Exec Says &#8216;Prepared To Act&#8217;</a>,&#8221; by <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/chris-katje">Chris Katje</a>, highlights Dollar Tree Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DLTR#NASDAQ">DLTR</a>) and Dollar General Corp. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DG#NYSE">DG</a>) bracing for cost pressures from proposed tariffs, with Dollar Tree's CEO stating the company is ready to adapt its pricing and supply strategies.
&#8220;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/24/12/42468190/defense-stocks-face-headwinds-as-trumps-doge-targets-spending-cuts-goldman-sachs-downgrades-general-dynamics-to-sell">Defense Stocks Face Headwinds As Trump&#8217;s DOGE Targets Spending Cuts: Goldman Sachs Downgrades General Dynamics</a>,&#8221; by <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/piero-cingari">Piero Cingari</a>, reports Goldman Sachs&#8217; downgrade of General Dynamics Corp. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GD#NYSE">GD</a>) to Sell, citing risks from Donald Trump&#8216;s Department of Government Efficiency&#8217;s potential Pentagon budget cuts, while 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>) remain under scrutiny for valuation concerns and slowing growth.
For more bearish takes, be sure to see these posts:
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/24/12/42452944/larry-summers-cautions-on-trumps-tariffs-and-tax-cuts-markets-are-hair-trigger-sensitive-to-inflation">Larry Summers Warns Of Nixon-Era Risks In Trump&#8217;s Term: Policies Could Trigger &#8216;Significantly Larger&#8217; Inflation</a>
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/media/24/12/42482813/intel-cfo-hints-at-possible-division-split-as-company-struggles-to-recapture-moat">Intel CFO Hints at Possible Division Split as Company Struggles To Recapture Moat</a>
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/24/12/42430772/janet-yellen-warns-trump-tariffs-could-undermine-confidence-in-financial-markets-and-raise-american-household-costs">Janet Yellen Warns Trump Tariffs Could &#8216;Undermine Confidence In Financial Markets&#8217; And Raise American Household Costs</a>
Keep up with all the latest breaking news and trading ideas by following<a href="https://twitter.com/Benzinga"> Benzinga</a><a href="http://twitter.com/Benzinga"> on Twitter</a>.
Image created using artificial intelligence via Midjourney.

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Benzinga Bulls And Bears: Tesla, Nvidia, MicroStrategy, Dollar Tree, And Dogecoin Prediction Of $18 In 'Wild' Scenario

On Thursday, Rep. Jeff Van Drew (R-N.J.) called out the Pentagon for allegedly hiding information about unidentified drones spotted near military locations in New Jersey.
What Happened: The representative said, &#8220;We aren't being told the truth.&#8221; He went on to say in a Fox News interview that &#8220;they are dealing with the American public like we're stupid.&#8221;
Van Drew suggested that these car-sized drones might be linked to an Iranian &#8220;mothership,&#8221; <a href="https://www.politico.com/news/2024/12/12/new-jersey-drones-pentagon-00193985">reported</a> Politico. The Pentagon, however, denied these claims, stating there was no Iranian ship off the U.S. coast launching drones. Sabrina Singh, the Defense Department&#8217;s spokesperson, did not provide an explanation for the drone activity.
Van Drew later toned down his claims, stating there was a &#8220;real possibility&#8221; the drones could be Iranian or Chinese. He referred to sources with security clearances as &#8220;whistleblowers&#8221;, but did not provide any evidence to support his claims. 
In a post on X, he called the drone sightings &#8220;a national security crisis we cannot ignore.&#8221; Van Drew shared a clip of the Fox News interview in which he can be heard urging that the drones be shot down. 
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">What we've uncovered is alarming—drones flying in from the direction of the ocean, possibly linked to a missing Iranian mothership. This is a national security crisis we cannot ignore. Bring them down now. <a href="https://t.co/YicWkcoJR1">pic.twitter.com/YicWkcoJR1</a>
&mdash; Congressman Jeff Van Drew (@Congressman_JVD) <a href="https://twitter.com/Congressman_JVD/status/1866906922210955465?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 11, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
</figure>
Gov. Phil Murphy (D) of New Jersey rejected Van Drew&#8217;s claims, advocating for a fact-based approach to understanding the situation, rather than spreading fear, according to Politico.
The drone sightings, described as up to &#8220;six feet in diameter&#8221; and undetectable by radio frequency monitoring, follow similar reports over U.S. military installations in Virginia and the United Kingdom, raising national security concerns.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/media/24/12/42407739/trump-announces-plans-to-have-dinner-with-amazon-founder-jeff-bezos-as-billionaire-rivals-turn-unexpected-allies-after-years-of-clashes?itm_source=parsely-api" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Trump Announces Plans To Have Dinner With Amazon Founder Jeff Bezos As Billionaire Rivals Turn Unexpected</a>
Why It Matters: Sen. Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) also reacted to the mysterious drones. &#8220;We should be doing some very urgent intelligence analysis and take them out of the skies, especially if they're flying over airports or military bases,&#8221; said the Connecticut senator, according to a <a href="https://apnews.com/article/fbi-drones-new-jersey-8bfe84cf2678400181292b75f9193395">report</a> by the Associated Press. 
While some sightings may be misidentified aircraft, investigations by federal and state agencies continue, with no reported evidence of national security threats or foreign involvement confirmed.
The drone sightings come amidst a shift in military aviation. Elon Musk has highlighted that drones offer <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/24/06/39160140/elon-musk-on-future-warfare-putting-humans-in-aircraft-just-slows-them-down">significant advantages</a> over manned aircraft in terms of speed, safety, and technological capabilities, making them the preferred choice in critical situations.
Musk, Donald Trump&#8217;s pick to co-lead the Department of Government Efficiency, criticized Lockheed Martin&#8217;s F-35 stealth fighter program, advocating for the use of drones over manned jets.
Image via Pixabay
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>

Jeff Van Drew Calls Out Pentagon For Hiding Information About Mysterious New Jersey Drones: 'National Security Crisis We Cannot Ignore'

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

Analyst Color

Mid Cap

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Downgrades

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Economics

MRCY

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

This whale alert can help traders discover the next big trading opportunities.
Whales are entities with large sums of money and we track their transactions here at Benzinga on our options activity scanner.
Traders will search for circumstances when the market estimation of an option diverges heavily from its normal worth. High amounts of trading activity could push option prices to exaggerated or underestimated levels. 
Here's the list of options activity happening in today's session: 
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Symbol</th>
<th>PUT/CALL</th>
<th>Trade Type</th>
<th>Sentiment</th>
<th>Exp. Date</th>
<th>Strike Price</th>
<th>Total Trade Price</th>
<th>Open Interest</th>
<th align="right">Volume</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>GEV</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>02/21/25</td>
<td>$320.00</td>
<td>$38.1K</td>
<td>89</td>
<td align="right">557</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>BE</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>12/20/24</td>
<td>$25.00</td>
<td>$60.6K</td>
<td>2.6K</td>
<td align="right">554</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>VRT</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>NEUTRAL</td>
<td>01/17/25</td>
<td>$130.00</td>
<td>$143.4K</td>
<td>3.7K</td>
<td align="right">504</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>LMT</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>12/20/24</td>
<td>$500.00</td>
<td>$114.6K</td>
<td>840</td>
<td align="right">427</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>RKLB</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>NEUTRAL</td>
<td>12/18/26</td>
<td>$40.00</td>
<td>$41.5K</td>
<td>1.1K</td>
<td align="right">275</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>ALK</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>01/17/25</td>
<td>$65.00</td>
<td>$45.2K</td>
<td>39</td>
<td align="right">249</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

<h2>Explanation</h2>
These bullet-by-bullet explanations have been constructed using the accompanying table. 
• For GEV (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GEV#NYSE">GEV</a>), we notice a put option sweep that happens to be bearish, expiring in 71 day(s) on February 21, 2025. This event was a transfer of 21 contract(s) at a $320.00 strike. This particular put needed to be split into 5 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $38.1K, with a price of $1820.0 per contract. There were 89 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 557 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For BE (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BE#NYSE">BE</a>), we notice a put option sweep that happens to be bearish, expiring in 8 day(s) on December 20, 2024. This event was a transfer of 551 contract(s) at a $25.00 strike. This particular put needed to be split into 50 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $60.6K, with a price of $110.0 per contract. There were 2612 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 554 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• Regarding VRT (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VRT#NYSE">VRT</a>), we observe a call option sweep with neutral sentiment. It expires in 36 day(s) on January 17, 2025. Parties traded 239 contract(s) at a $130.00 strike. This particular call needed to be split into 26 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $143.4K, with a price of $600.0 per contract. There were 3723 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 504 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For LMT (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LMT#NYSE">LMT</a>), we notice a put option sweep that happens to be bearish, expiring in 8 day(s) on December 20, 2024. This event was a transfer of 157 contract(s) at a $500.00 strike. This particular put needed to be split into 34 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $114.6K, with a price of $730.0 per contract. There were 840 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 427 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For RKLB (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RKLB#NASDAQ">RKLB</a>), we notice a call option trade that happens to be neutral, expiring in 736 day(s) on December 18, 2026. This event was a transfer of 50 contract(s) at a $40.00 strike. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $41.5K, with a price of $830.0 per contract. There were 1157 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 275 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• Regarding ALK (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ALK#NYSE">ALK</a>), we observe a put option sweep with bullish sentiment. It expires in 36 day(s) on January 17, 2025. Parties traded 174 contract(s) at a $65.00 strike. This particular put needed to be split into 23 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $45.2K, with a price of $260.0 per contract. There were 39 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 249 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
Options Alert Terminology 
 - Call Contracts: The right to buy shares as indicated in the contract. 
 - Put Contracts: The right to sell shares as indicated in the contract. 
 - Expiration Date: When the contract expires. One must act on the contract by this date if one wants to use it. 
 - Premium/Option Price: The price of the contract. 
For more information, visit our <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/blog/how-to-understand-option-alerts/">Guide to Understanding Options Alerts</a> or read <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/options">more about unusual options activity</a>. 
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.

RKLB

6 Industrials Stocks Whale Activity In Today's Session

Deep-pocketed investors have adopted a bearish approach towards Lockheed Martin (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LMT#NYSE">LMT</a>), and it's something market players shouldn't ignore. Our tracking of public options records at Benzinga unveiled this significant move today. The identity of these investors remains unknown, but such a substantial move in LMT usually suggests something big is about to happen.
We gleaned this information from our observations today when Benzinga's options scanner highlighted 10 extraordinary options activities for Lockheed Martin. This level of activity is out of the ordinary.
The general mood among these heavyweight investors is divided, with 30% leaning bullish and 50% bearish. Among these notable options, 4 are puts, totaling $141,995, and 6 are calls, amounting to $294,124.
<h3>What's The Price Target?</h3>
Based on the trading activity, it appears that the significant investors are aiming for a price territory stretching from $450.0 to $560.0 for Lockheed Martin over the recent three months. 
<h3>Insights into Volume &amp; Open Interest</h3>
In today's trading context, the average open interest for options of Lockheed Martin stands at 380.0, with a total volume reaching 466.00. The accompanying chart delineates the progression of both call and put option volume and open interest for high-value trades in Lockheed Martin, situated within the strike price corridor from $450.0 to $560.0, throughout the last 30 days.
<h3>Lockheed Martin Option Activity Analysis: Last 30 Days</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1734022000_0.png" alt="Options Call Chart" />
<h3>Significant Options Trades Detected:</h3>

<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Symbol</th>
<th>PUT/CALL</th>
<th>Trade Type</th>
<th>Sentiment</th>
<th>Exp. Date</th>
<th>Ask</th>
<th>Bid</th>
<th>Price</th>
<th>Strike Price</th>
<th>Total Trade Price</th>
<th align="right">Open Interest</th>
<th align="right">Volume</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>LMT</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>03/21/25</td>
<td>$5.6</td>
<td>$4.8</td>
<td>$5.6</td>
<td>$560.00</td>
<td>$67.2K</td>
<td align="right">290</td>
<td align="right">122</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>LMT</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>06/20/25</td>
<td>$11.6</td>
<td>$11.3</td>
<td>$11.6</td>
<td>$560.00</td>
<td>$63.8K</td>
<td align="right">77</td>
<td align="right">62</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>LMT</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>06/20/25</td>
<td>$12.5</td>
<td>$11.6</td>
<td>$11.6</td>
<td>$560.00</td>
<td>$56.8K</td>
<td align="right">77</td>
<td align="right">135</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>LMT</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>01/15/27</td>
<td>$67.6</td>
<td>$64.1</td>
<td>$67.3</td>
<td>$500.00</td>
<td>$53.8K</td>
<td align="right">47</td>
<td align="right">13</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>LMT</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>09/19/25</td>
<td>$19.1</td>
<td>$16.9</td>
<td>$18.3</td>
<td>$450.00</td>
<td>$47.5K</td>
<td align="right">221</td>
<td align="right">26</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

<h3>About Lockheed Martin</h3>
Lockheed Martin is the world's largest defense contractor and has dominated the Western market for high-end fighter aircraft since it won the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter program in 2001. Lockheed's largest segment is aeronautics, which derives upward of two-thirds of its revenue from the F-35. Lockheed's remaining segments are rotary and mission systems, mainly encompassing the Sikorsky helicopter business; missiles and fire control, which creates missiles and missile defense systems; and space systems, which produces satellites and receives equity income from the United Launch Alliance joint venture.
After a thorough review of the options trading surrounding Lockheed Martin, we move to examine the company in more detail. This includes an assessment of its current market status and performance.
<h3>Where Is Lockheed Martin Standing Right Now?</h3>
<ul>
<li>With a trading volume of 695,248, the price of LMT is down by -1.4%, reaching $497.17.</li>
<li>Current RSI values indicate that the stock is may be oversold.</li>
<li>Next earnings report is scheduled for 40 days from now.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Professional Analyst Ratings for Lockheed Martin</h3>
In the last month, 1 experts released ratings on this stock with an average target price of $543.0.
Turn $1000 into $1270 in just 20 days?
20-year pro options trader reveals his one-line chart technique that shows when to buy and sell. Copy his trades, which have had averaged a 27% profit every 20 days. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/premium/ideas/options-moneyline-2/?t=Moop1arja3be22op14&amp;utm_source=benzinga-insights">Click here for access</a>. 
&#x2A; An analyst from Wells Fargo persists with their Equal-Weight rating on Lockheed Martin, maintaining a target price of $543. 
Options trading presents higher risks and potential rewards. Astute traders manage these risks by continually educating themselves, adapting their strategies, monitoring multiple indicators, and keeping a close eye on market movements. Stay informed about the latest Lockheed Martin options trades with real-time alerts from <a href="https://benzinga.grsm.io/register174">Benzinga Pro</a>.

Lockheed Martin Unusual Options Activity For December 12

Aquilino served as the 26th commander of the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command, responsible for all U.S. military activities in the Indo-Pacific, from 2021 until his retirement as a four-star admiral in July 2024.

Management

Lockheed Martin Adds John C. Aquilino To Board

Wells Fargo analyst Matthew Akers maintains Lockheed Martin (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LMT#NYSE">LMT</a>) with a Equal-Weight and lowers the price target from $602 to $543.

Analyst Ratings

Wells Fargo Maintains Equal-Weight on Lockheed Martin, Lowers Price Target to $543

<a href="https://www.dsca.mil/press-media/major-arms-sales/ukraine-f-16-sustainment-services" title="https://www.dsca.mil/press-media/major-arms-sales/ukraine-f-16-sustainment-services">https://www.dsca.mil/press-media/major-arms-sales/ukraine-f-16-sustainment-services</a>

Macro Economic Events

Global

U.S. State Department Made Determination Approving Foreign Military Sale To Ukraine Of F-16 Sustainment Services And Related Equipment For $266.4M

<a href="https://news.lockheedmartin.com/2024-12-10-Lockheed-Martin-to-Explore-Advanced-Technologies-and-Capabilities-with-Norwegian-Industry" title="https://news.lockheedmartin.com/2024-12-10-Lockheed-Martin-to-Explore-Advanced-Technologies-and-Capabilities-with-Norwegian-Industry">https://news.lockheedmartin.com/2024-12-10-Lockheed-Martin-to-Explore-Advanced-Technologies-and-Capabilities-with-Norwegian-Industry</a>

Lockheed Martin To Collaborate With Norwegian Industry On Advanced Technologies And Capabilities Under $8M Contracts Spanning 24 Months

<a href="https://news.lockheedmartin.com/2024-12-09-Lockheed-Martins-Newest-Technology-Demo-for-Space-Connectivity-Is-Ready-for-Launch">https://news.lockheedmartin.com/2024-12-09-Lockheed-Martins-Newest-Technology-Demo-for-Space-Connectivity-Is-Ready-for-Launch</a>
Lockheed Martin's (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LMT#NYSE">LMT</a>) newest technology demonstration, called the <a href="https://www.lockheedmartin.com/en-us/news/features/2023/lockheed-martin-prepares-first-5g-mil--payload-for-orbit.html">Tactical Satellite (TacSat)</a>, is complete and ready for launch in 2025 aboard a Firefly Aerospace Alpha rocket.
TacSat is an intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance spacecraft with a mission to prove specialized sensing and communications capabilities on orbit. The satellite will participate in exercises next year that highlight cross-domain kill-web connectivity, enabling timely execution of tactical space missions.

Lockheed Martin's Newest Technology Demo For Space Connectivity Is Ready for Launch

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>

AMZN

GOOG

MSFT

Rydex ETF Trust Rydex S&P Equal Weight ETF

SPXE

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

Lockheed Martin (LMT) was awarded a $196.1M cost-plus-fixed-fee, indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract to provide system design and deve...

Lockheed Martin awarded $196.1M Navy contract

Morgan Stanley lowered the firm's price target on Lockheed Martin (LMT) to $555 from $599 and keeps an Equal Weight rating on the shares. 2025 pres...

Lockheed Martin price target lowered to $555 from $599 at Morgan Stanley

Citi analyst Jason Gursky says U.S. defense stocks have declined as much as 30% since the election, driven by concerns over the potential policies ...

Citi says defense stock concerns likely overdone, shares attractive

As Trump aims to slash federal spending, Wells Fargo economists see no major cuts in 2025

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Trump Trade: Federal funding plan endorsed by Trump fails

Companies in the Industrial Goods sector have received a lot of coverage today as analysts weigh in on Lockheed Martin (LMT – Research Report), JB ...

Analysts Offer Insights on Industrial Goods Companies: Lockheed Martin (LMT), JB Hunt (JBHT) and Amprius Technologies Inc (AMPX)

Lockheed Martin (LMT) was awarded a $198.09M firm-fixed-price, cost-plus-fixed-fee, cost reimbursable, indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity cont...

Lockheed Martin awarded $198.09M Navy contract

Lockheed Martin (LMT) was awarded a not-to-exceed $11.76B undefinitized, fixed-price incentive, firm-fixed-price modification to a previously award...

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