General Dynamics (NYSE:GD) Bolsa

General Dynamics

General Dynamics is a defense contractor and business jet manufacturer. The firm's segments include aerospace, marine, combat systems, and technology. General Dynamics' aerospace segment manufactures Gulfstream business jets and operates a global aircraft servicing operation. Combat systems produces land-based combat vehicles such as the M1 Abrams tank and Stryker armored personnel carrier, as well as munitions. The marine segment builds and services nuclear-powered submarines, destroyers, and other ships. The technologies segment contains two main units: an IT business that primarily serves the government market and a mission systems business that focuses on products that provide command, control, computing, intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance capabilities to the military.

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General Dynamics Corporation Common Stock

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Nvidia Corp (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVDA#NASDAQ">NVDA</a>) CEO Jensen Huang might be all-in on GPUs, but IonQ Inc's (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IONQ#NYSE">IONQ</a>) CEO Niccolo De Masi <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/quantum-computing">says quantum computing</a> is the next big thing—and he's not backing down.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Quantum: The Third Leg Of Computing</h2>
"I can remember 10 years ago when Intel was busy bashing Jensen and Nvidia and saying GPUs would never matter," De Masi <a href="https://www.cnbc.com/video/2025/02/27/ionq-ceo-on-quantum-computing-and-mechanics-ai.html">said</a> in a CNBC interview. "I find that ironic that our market cap is about the same as Nvidia's 10 years ago. Now, Jensen is saying that you don't matter."
IonQ stock may have had a rocky 2025—down 42% year-to-date—but over the past six months, the stock has skyrocketed 257.9%, signaling that investors are taking the quantum race seriously. 
De Masi is confident that quantum processing units (QPUs) will soon sit alongside CPUs and GPUs as the backbone of computing.
Read Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/management/25/02/43993251/ionq-q4-eps-miss-500-million-offering-ceo-appointment-acquires-stake-in-id-quantique-details">IonQ Q4 EPS Miss, $500 Million Offering, CEO Appointment, Acquires Stake In ID Quantique: Details</a>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Revenue, Partnerships, Quantum's Real-World Impact</h2>
&#8220;Quantum computing needs a lot of qubits to be truly useful. We think it takes about that many to do this useful stuff that we're already driving GAAP revenue around this year." De Masi said. "We're the only company in the space that has guided to $85 million in GAAP revenue this year at the midpoint."
IonQ isn't just talking the talk, it. is securing major partnerships with industry giants like Microsoft Corp (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MSFT#NASDAQ">MSFT</a>), AstraZeneca Plc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AZN#NASDAQ">AZN</a>) and General Dynamics Corp (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GD#NYSE">GD</a>).
"We're going to solve problems that no one else can solve in the world because of the beauty of quantum mechanics," De Masi said.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The 800-Pound Gorilla In Quantum Computing</h2>
With Nvidia dominating AI and Microsoft making heavy bets on quantum through Azure, IonQ is positioning itself as the independent leader in quantum computing. "We were the first. We were the best capitalized independent player in the market," De Masi stated. "I would argue that we remain the 800-pound gorilla of the category."
As tech giants continue to evolve their computing stacks, the question isn't whether quantum computing matters, it's when it will become indispensable. And IonQ is betting that moment is sooner than most expect.
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Investors with a lot of money to spend have taken a bullish stance on General Dynamics (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GD#NYSE">GD</a>).
And retail traders should know.
We noticed this today when the positions showed up on publicly available options history that we track here at Benzinga.
Whether these are institutions or just wealthy individuals, we don't know. But when something this big happens with GD, it often means somebody knows something is about to happen.
Today, Benzinga's options scanner spotted 8 options trades for General Dynamics.
This isn't normal.
The overall sentiment of these big-money traders is split between 37% bullish and 25%, bearish.
Out of all of the options we uncovered, there was 1 put, for a total amount of $60,000, and 7, calls, for a total amount of $675,699.
<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 $200.0 to $220.0 for General Dynamics over the recent three months. 
<h3>Volume &amp; Open Interest Development</h3>
Looking at the volume and open interest is an insightful way to conduct due diligence on a stock.
This data can help you track the liquidity and interest for General Dynamics's options for a given strike price.
Below, we can observe the evolution of the volume and open interest of calls and puts, respectively, for all of General Dynamics's whale activity within a strike price range from $200.0 to $220.0 in the last 30 days. 
<h3>General Dynamics Option Activity Analysis: Last 30 Days</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2025/1740681944_0.png" alt="Options Call Chart" />
<h3>Biggest Options Spotted:</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>GD</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>01/16/26</td>
<td>$43.7</td>
<td>$43.3</td>
<td>$43.7</td>
<td>$220.00</td>
<td>$231.6K</td>
<td align="right">146</td>
<td align="right">60</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>GD</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>01/16/26</td>
<td>$45.1</td>
<td>$43.6</td>
<td>$43.8</td>
<td>$220.00</td>
<td>$175.2K</td>
<td align="right">146</td>
<td align="right">139</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>GD</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>NEUTRAL</td>
<td>01/16/26</td>
<td>$45.2</td>
<td>$42.5</td>
<td>$44.11</td>
<td>$220.00</td>
<td>$66.1K</td>
<td align="right">146</td>
<td align="right">77</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>GD</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>06/18/26</td>
<td>$14.0</td>
<td>$12.0</td>
<td>$12.0</td>
<td>$220.00</td>
<td>$60.0K</td>
<td align="right">30</td>
<td align="right">50</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>GD</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>01/16/26</td>
<td>$61.0</td>
<td>$59.4</td>
<td>$59.8</td>
<td>$200.00</td>
<td>$59.8K</td>
<td align="right">71</td>
<td align="right">12</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

<h3>About General Dynamics</h3>
General Dynamics is a defense contractor and business jet manufacturer. The firm's segments include aerospace, marine, combat systems, and technology. General Dynamics' aerospace segment manufactures Gulfstream business jets and operates a global aircraft servicing operation. Combat systems produces land-based combat vehicles such as the M1 Abrams tank and Stryker armored personnel carrier, as well as munitions. The marine segment builds and services nuclear-powered submarines, destroyers, and other ships. The technologies segment contains two main units: an IT business that primarily serves the government market and a mission systems business that focuses on products that provide command, control, computing, intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance capabilities to the military.
<h3>Where Is General Dynamics Standing Right Now?</h3>
<ul>
<li>With a trading volume of 547,640, the price of GD is up by 0.91%, reaching $251.51.</li>
<li>Current RSI values indicate that the stock is is currently neutral between overbought and oversold.</li>
<li>Next earnings report is scheduled for 55 days from now.</li>
</ul>
<h3>What The Experts Say On General Dynamics</h3>
In the last month, 5 experts released ratings on this stock with an average target price of $284.8.
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;adType=benzinga-insights&amp;ad=options-activity&amp;campaign=wallstreetadvantage">Click here for access</a>. 
&#x2A; An analyst from Citigroup has decided to maintain their Buy rating on General Dynamics, which currently sits at a price target of $335. 
&#x2A; An analyst from JP Morgan has decided to maintain their Overweight rating on General Dynamics, which currently sits at a price target of $284. 
&#x2A; Consistent in their evaluation, an analyst from Wells Fargo keeps a Equal-Weight rating on General Dynamics with a target price of $276. 
&#x2A; Consistent in their evaluation, an analyst from Wells Fargo keeps a Equal-Weight rating on General Dynamics with a target price of $244. 
&#x2A; An analyst from Barclays has decided to maintain their Overweight rating on General Dynamics, which currently sits at a price target of $285. 
Trading options involves greater risks but also offers the potential for higher profits. Savvy traders mitigate these risks through ongoing education, strategic trade adjustments, utilizing various indicators, and staying attuned to market dynamics. Keep up with the latest options trades for General Dynamics with <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pro/">Benzinga Pro</a> for real-time alerts.

Options

General Dynamics's Options: A Look at What the Big Money is Thinking

U.S. defense stocks have taken a major hit after President Donald Trump suggested the country could cut its military budget in half. Meanwhile, European defense companies are thriving as investors expect a boost in spending across the region.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Trump's Comments Shake U.S. Defense Industry</h2>
Trump on Feb. 13 floated the idea of significantly reducing the U.S. defense budget, which currently hovers around $1 trillion. He indicated plans to meet with China's Xi Jinping and Russia's Vladimir Putin to discuss global military spending cuts. "At some point, when things settle down, I'm going to meet with China and I'm going to meet with Russia, in particular those two, and I'm going to say there's no reason for us to be spending almost $1 trillion on the military &#8230; and I'm going to say we can spend this on other things," Trump said.
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Markets reacted quickly, with major U.S. defense stocks dropping. 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>), General Dynamics (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GD#NYSE">GD</a>), and Raytheon Technologies (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RTX#NYSE">RTX</a>) all slipped on the news. But this downturn is just a continuation. They have been in freefall following reports that the Department of Defense is preparing for <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/02/43836832/trump-administration-orders-sweeping-pentagon-cuts-defense-sector-stocks-on-watch">spending cuts</a> ahead of an audit by the Department of Government Efficiency, championed by Elon Musk.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Europe's Defense Stocks See a Boom</h2>
<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;&#x1f914; US defense stocks are falling. Over the month: • Lockheed Martin: -16.41% • Northrop Grumman: -13% • General Dynamics: -10.93% • Raytheon Technologies: -2.66% European defense stocks are rising: &#x1f1e9;&#x1f1ea; Rheinmetall: +36.4% &#x1f1eb;&#x1f1f7; Thales: +22.66% &#x1f1ec;&#x1f1e7; BAE Systems: +10.17% &#x1f1ea;&#x1f1fa;…
&mdash; MAKS 24 &#x1f1fa;&#x1f1e6;&#x1f440; (@Maks_NAFO_FELLA) <a href="https://twitter.com/Maks_NAFO_FELLA/status/1891819381509980658?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 18, 2025</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
</figure>
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While U.S. companies struggle, European defense stocks are soaring. Investors are betting on increased military budgets across Europe as the region faces pressure to boost its own defense spending. Rheinmetall saw a surge of 21.89% in the last 30 days and Thales climbed 19.23%. Others, like BAE Systems and Airbus, saw an increase but later stabilized.
European leaders, including UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, have been vocal about the need for higher defense spending. Additionally, French President Emmanuel Macron was hosting an emergency summit on the Ukraine war, where military budgets were a major topic after Trump surprised European allies in NATO and Ukraine by revealing he had <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/25/02/43825637/donald-trump-says-us-is-successfully-negotiating-with-russia-over-ukraine-but-polymarket-traders-arent-convinced">spoken with&nbsp; Putin</a> without prior consultation and planned to initiate a peace process.
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Wall Street Vs. European Markets</h2>
The impact of Trump's presidency on global markets is already showing. Since his inauguration, European stocks have outperformed U.S. markets. As the Financial Times reported, the Stoxx Europe 600 has gained 5.2% compared to the S&amp;P 500's 2.5% increase. This rally happened because the U.S. hasn't placed new tariffs on European goods, there's hope for peace talks in Ukraine, and the European Central Bank has made borrowing easier by lowering interest rates.
However, the outlook remains uncertain, as Trump has <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/02/43805852/trump-shakes-global-trade-with-25-auto-chip-and-pharma-tariffs-announcement-asian-stocks-pare-their-five-day-rally">announced new tariffs</a> on European cars, pharmaceuticals, and chips, which briefly sent European stocks lower.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The Big Picture</h2>
Trump's unpredictable stance on military spending is sending mixed signals to investors. While he advocates for cost-cutting, he also emphasizes U.S. military strength, having <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/25/01/43266467/trumps-executive-orders-make-us-most-lethal-fighting-force-in-the-world-iron-dome-defense-system-get-woke-policies-out-of-military">signed an order</a> to explore an &#8220;Iron Dome of America&#8221; missile defense system.
For now, European defense stocks are riding high, while U.S. companies brace for potential cuts.
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'There's No Reason To Spend $1 Trillion On The Military'—Trump's Statement Sends US Defense Stocks Spiraling While Europe's Surge

Wells Fargo analyst Matthew Akers maintains General Dynamics (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GD#NYSE">GD</a>) with a Equal-Weight and lowers the price target from $276 to $244.

Price Target

Wells Fargo Maintains Equal-Weight on General Dynamics, Lowers Price Target to $244

While European defense stocks soar, <a href="https://benzinga.com/topic/aerospace-defense-stocks" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">their American counterparts</a> are stuck in the trenches. 
As <a href="https://www.ft.com/content/1ea4a5d6-c8a9-4a87-8e3a-9a7c084d1a77">reported</a> by the Financial Times, President Donald Trump&#8216;s renewed calls for Europe to shoulder its own security burden paired with plans to trim Pentagon spending have clipped the wings of U.S. defense giants.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Europe&#8217;s Defense Boom, America&#8217;s Bust</h2>
Shares of Germany&#8217;s Rheinmetall have skyrocketed nearly 40% since Trump's return to the White House, while South Korea's Hanwha Aerospace has surged more than 70%, fueled by NATO rearmament deals. 
Meanwhile, American stalwarts like 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>) are down 13% and 10.8%, respectively, as fears of shrinking Pentagon contracts weigh on investor sentiment.
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Winners &amp; Losers Stateside</h2>
Among the top U.S. players, Lockheed Martin (-13%) and Northrop Grumman (-10.8%) have taken the biggest hits, while Boeing Co (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BA#NYSE">BA</a>) stands out as the lone gainer, up 2.5% since Trump took office. 
RTX Corp (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RTX#NYSE">RTX</a>) (-0.25%) has held relatively steady, but General Dynamics Corp (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GD#NYSE">GD</a>) (-9.3%) and L3Harris Technologies Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LHX#NYSE">LHX</a>) (-10.3%) have also faced notable declines.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Investor Implications: Pivot Or Persevere?</h2>
For investors, the message is clear: follow the money and it&#8217;s heading across the Atlantic.
With European defense budgets ballooning and the US tightening its belt, ETFs like iShares MSCI Europe ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IEUR#NYSE">IEUR</a>) and SPDR S&amp;P Aerospace &amp; Defense ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XAR#NYSE">XAR</a>) might offer better short-term returns than their U.S.-heavy counterparts.
Unless U.S. defense contractors can secure new international contracts or navigate domestic budget cuts, their stocks may remain stuck in neutral while European rivals continue their ascent.
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Photo: Shutterstock

IEUR

US Defense Stocks Stumble As Trump's Pentagon Cuts Fuel European Surge

William Blair analyst Louie DiPalma downgrades General Dynamics (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GD#NYSE">GD</a>) from Outperform to Market Perform.

Downgrades

William Blair Downgrades General Dynamics to Market Perform

The Trump administration has ordered senior officials at the Pentagon and throughout the U.S. military to prepare <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/25/01/43266467/trumps-executive-orders-make-us-most-lethal-fighting-force-in-the-world-iron-dome-defense-system-get-woke-policies-out-of-military">for sweeping budget cuts.&nbsp;</a>
The Details: According to a Washington Post <a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/national-security/2025/02/19/trump-pentagon-budget-cuts/">report</a>, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, on Tuesday, sent a memo ordering senior officials to develop plans to cut 8% of the defense budget in each of the next five years. 
The order states plans for proposed cuts should be drawn up by Feb. 24 and includes many notable exemptions, including the modernization of nuclear weapons and missile defense, the acquisition of submarines, drones and other munitions.
Read Next: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/02/43703014/robert-f-kennedy-confirmed-as-trump-secretary-of-health">Robert F. Kennedy, Vaccine Skeptic, Confirmed As Trump&#8217;s Secretary Of Health: Health Care Stocks To Watch</a>
"The time for preparation is over — we must act urgently to revive the warrior ethos, rebuild our military, and reestablish deterrence," Hegseth wrote, according to the Washington Post which obtained the memo. 
"Our budget will resource the fighting force we need, cease unnecessary defense spending, reject excessive bureaucracy, and drive actionable reform including progress on the audit," Hegseth wrote.&nbsp;
Stocks To Watch: Shares of companies in the defense sector are on watch as details of any proposed cuts are not immediately clear.&nbsp;
Due to the above-listed exemptions which include submarines, missile defense and other munitions, many of the legacy defense contractors may not be the focus of proposed spending cuts but should still be monitored.&nbsp;
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>), General Dynamics Corp. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GD#NYSE">GD</a>), and Northrop Grumman Corp. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NOC#NYSE">NOC</a>) dipped following the Washington Post report but recovered quickly. 
However, shares of Palantir Technologies, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PLTR#NASDAQ">PLTR</a>) fell more than 10% following the news. The large drop may have been due to the stock's recent run which produced gains of nearly 250% over the past six months. 
Read Next:
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/social-media/25/02/43535256/palantir-adds-elon-musks-ai-chatbot-grok-to-aip">Palantir Adds Elon Musk&#8217;s AI Chatbot Grok To AIP</a></li>
</ul>
Image: Shutterstock

Large Cap

Politics

Movers

PLTR

Trump Administration Orders Sweeping Pentagon Cuts: Palantir, Lockheed Martin, General Dynamics Among Stocks On Watch

The U.S. defense sector is facing fresh uncertainty as the Trump administration sets the foundation for a cost-cutting initiative under the newly established Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). Despite the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/global/25/02/43787369/us-russian-officials-begin-ukraine-peace-talks-defense-sector-stocks-rise">recent buoyancy</a> in anticipation of peace talks involving the Presidents of the U.S., Russia and Ukraine, stocks of major defense contractors, including Lockheed Martin (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>), General Dynamics (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GD#NYSE">GD</a>), and Northrop Grumman (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NOC#NYSE">NOC</a>), are staring at near-term risks following the possibility of a defense budget cut. 
While the potential impact is still unfolding, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/etfs">defense-focused ETFs </a>could be in for a bumpy ride.
ETFs with significant holdings in defense giants may see volatility in the wake of potential budget constraints. Some of the key funds to monitor include:
iShares U.S. Aerospace &amp; Defense ETF (BATS:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ITA#BATS">ITA</a>) – Tracks U.S. defense and aerospace companies, including General Dynamics (18.75% exposure) Lockheed Martin (4.98% exposure) and RTX (15.72% exposure). 
SPDR S&amp;P Aerospace &amp; Defense ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XAR#NYSE">XAR</a>) – Offers exposure to large and mid-cap defense stocks, with exposure to stocks like Lockheed Martin, General Dynamics and RTX. This ETF offers a more equally weighted approach, which may help balance the losses.
Invesco Aerospace &amp; Defense ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PPA#NYSE">PPA</a>) – Holds a diversified mix of defense contractors and related industries. However, Lockheed Martin and RTX hold the top positions, with 7.26% and 7% of the total AUM.
First Trust Indxx Aerospace &amp; Defense ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MISL#NYSE">MISL</a>) – A newer entrant with a focus on companies involved in missile and defense technology. Once again, Lockheed Martin, General Dynamics and RTX hold significant percentage of the total assets.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/25/02/43827291/exclusive-will-trumps-tariffs-hurt-or-help-stock-market-59-say-this">EXCLUSIVE: Will Trump&#8217;s Tariffs Hurt Or Help Stock Market? 59% Say This…</a>
Why Defense Stocks Are Under Pressure
The DOGE recently kicked off its review at the Pentagon, aiming to curb waste, fraud, and redundancies. In a post on X, DOGE officials confirmed their commitment to "safely save taxpayer dollars and eliminate waste." 
<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">Great kickoff with <a href="https://twitter.com/DeptofDefense?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DeptofDefense</a>. Looking forward to working together to safely save taxpayer dollars and eliminate waste, fraud and abuse.
&mdash; Department of Government Efficiency (@DOGE) <a href="https://twitter.com/DOGE/status/1890621621448167497?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 15, 2025</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
</figure>
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the need to streamline operations and optimize spending, as reported by CBS News.
This initiative has raised concerns for major defense contractors, many of whom rely heavily on government contracts. Among the top players at risk are Lockheed Martin which has retreated almost 10% so far this year, RTX , General Dynamics, with a loss of 6.35% year-to-date, and Northrop Grumman, which has lost 6.5% so far this year.
With over $200 billion in annual federal contracts flowing into the sector, any cuts could significantly affect companies that derive nearly half their revenue from government spending, according to a report by Saxo Bank.
While U.S. defense spending may come under pressure, rising geopolitical tensions and commitments from NATO allies to boost their military budgets could create new opportunities for defense firms.
Fine-Tuning Is Key
For investors holding defense-heavy ETFs, now may be a time for caution but not necessarily panic. Watching how DOGE's review unfolds, tracking upcoming federal budgets, following the peace talks among Russia, Ukraine and U.S., and keeping an eye on global defense spending trends will be important. Diversification within ETFs could also help mitigate sector-specific risks.
As budget talks heat up, defense ETFs may experience short-term turbulence, but the longer-term picture will depend on how much of the spending shift is domestic versus international.
Read Next: 
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/02/43818555/trade-war-redux-a-bumpy-ride-ahead-for-these-etfs-after-trumps-tariff-move-on-auto-pharma-chip-imports">Trade War Redux: These ETFs Due For Bumpy Ride Thanks To Trump Tariffs On Auto, Pharma, Chip Imports</a></li>
</ul>
Photo: Shutterstock

Sector ETFs

ETFs

iShares Dow Jones US Aerospace & Defense Index Fund

MISL

4 ETFs In The Crosshairs As Defense Cuts Loom — Is It Time To Play Offense?

<a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/national-security/2025/02/19/trump-pentagon-budget-cuts/" title="https://www.washingtonpost.com/national-security/2025/02/19/trump-pentagon-budget-cuts/">https://www.washingtonpost.com/national-security/2025/02/19/trump-pentagon-budget-cuts/</a>

General

'Trump Administration Orders Pentagon To Plan For Sweeping Budget Cuts; Orders Pentagon To Develop Plans For 8% Budget Cut In Each Of The Next 5-Years' - Washington Post

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 often look for circumstances when the market estimation of an option diverges away from its normal worth. Abnormal amounts of trading activity could push option prices to hyperbolic or underperforming 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>Volume</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>DE</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>02/21/25</td>
<td>$500.00</td>
<td>$94.1K</td>
<td>607</td>
<td>6.2K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>HEES</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>02/21/25</td>
<td>$90.00</td>
<td>$45.5K</td>
<td>6.4K</td>
<td>1.0K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>LUNR</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>06/20/25</td>
<td>$20.00</td>
<td>$123.0K</td>
<td>3.2K</td>
<td>522</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>GD</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>NEUTRAL</td>
<td>02/21/25</td>
<td>$245.00</td>
<td>$33.3K</td>
<td>38</td>
<td>257</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>UBER</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>NEUTRAL</td>
<td>12/19/25</td>
<td>$30.00</td>
<td>$263.0K</td>
<td>4.5K</td>
<td>200</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>RTX</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>02/21/25</td>
<td>$124.00</td>
<td>$62.8K</td>
<td>1.1K</td>
<td>74</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>FLR</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>04/17/25</td>
<td>$57.50</td>
<td>$88.3K</td>
<td>128</td>
<td>50</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>ETN</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>02/21/25</td>
<td>$350.00</td>
<td>$118.7K</td>
<td>227</td>
<td>35</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>GEV</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>02/21/25</td>
<td>$300.00</td>
<td>$187.5K</td>
<td>439</td>
<td>25</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>AXON</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>03/20/26</td>
<td>$500.00</td>
<td>$26.2K</td>
<td>1</td>
<td>8</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

<h2>Explanation</h2>
These itemized elaborations have been created using the accompanying table. 
• For DE (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DE#NYSE">DE</a>), we notice a call option sweep that happens to be bearish, expiring in 3 day(s) on February 21, 2025. This event was a transfer of 277 contract(s) at a $500.00 strike. This particular call needed to be split into 3 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $94.1K, with a price of $340.0 per contract. There were 607 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 6220 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For HEES (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/HEES#NASDAQ">HEES</a>), we notice a call option sweep that happens to be bullish, expiring in 3 day(s) on February 21, 2025. This event was a transfer of 46 contract(s) at a $90.00 strike. This particular call needed to be split into 4 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $45.5K, with a price of $990.0 per contract. There were 6477 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 1071 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• Regarding LUNR (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LUNR#NASDAQ">LUNR</a>), we observe a call option sweep with bearish sentiment. It expires in 122 day(s) on June 20, 2025. Parties traded 200 contract(s) at a $20.00 strike. This particular call needed to be split into 12 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $123.0K, with a price of $615.0 per contract. There were 3225 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 522 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For GD (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GD#NYSE">GD</a>), we notice a call option trade that happens to be neutral, expiring in 3 day(s) on February 21, 2025. This event was a transfer of 247 contract(s) at a $245.00 strike. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $33.3K, with a price of $135.0 per contract. There were 38 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 257 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• Regarding UBER (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/UBER#NYSE">UBER</a>), we observe a call option trade with neutral sentiment. It expires in 304 day(s) on December 19, 2025. Parties traded 50 contract(s) at a $30.00 strike. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $263.0K, with a price of $5260.0 per contract. There were 4564 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 200 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• Regarding RTX (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RTX#NYSE">RTX</a>), we observe a put option sweep with bullish sentiment. It expires in 3 day(s) on February 21, 2025. Parties traded 388 contract(s) at a $124.00 strike. This particular put needed to be split into 17 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $62.8K, with a price of $162.0 per contract. There were 1170 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 74 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For FLR (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/FLR#NYSE">FLR</a>), we notice a put option trade that happens to be bearish, expiring in 58 day(s) on April 17, 2025. This event was a transfer of 48 contract(s) at a $57.50 strike. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $88.3K, with a price of $1840.0 per contract. There were 128 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 50 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For ETN (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ETN#NYSE">ETN</a>), we notice a put option sweep that happens to be bullish, expiring in 3 day(s) on February 21, 2025. This event was a transfer of 35 contract(s) at a $350.00 strike. This particular put needed to be split into 7 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $118.7K, with a price of $3400.0 per contract. There were 227 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 35 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For GEV (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GEV#NYSE">GEV</a>), we notice a call option trade that happens to be bullish, expiring in 3 day(s) on February 21, 2025. This event was a transfer of 25 contract(s) at a $300.00 strike. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $187.5K, with a price of $7500.0 per contract. There were 439 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 25 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• Regarding AXON (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AXON#NASDAQ">AXON</a>), we observe a call option trade with bearish sentiment. It expires in 395 day(s) on March 20, 2026. Parties traded 1 contract(s) at a $500.00 strike. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $26.2K, with a price of $26250.0 per contract. There were 1 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 8 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.

AXON

HEES

LUNR

UBER

10 Industrials Stocks Whale Activity In Today's Session

A high-stakes call between President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin sent shockwaves through markets, dragging down oil prices and U.S. defense stocks as investors reacted to Trump's surprise announcement of imminent peace negotiations to end <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/ukraine">the war in Ukraine.</a>
The West Texas Intermediate light crude – as tracked by the United States Oil Fund (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/USO#NYSE">USO</a>) – tumbled by 2.7% by 3:10 p.m. ET in New York, heading for its worst session since late November 2024.
Trump posted Wednesday on Truth Social that he had &#8220;a lengthy and highly productive&#8221; conversation with Putin, with the two leaders discussing &#8220;Ukraine, the Middle East, Energy, Artificial Intelligence, the power of the Dollar, and various other subjects.&#8221;
Trump added that he had directed his top officials, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio, CIA Director John Ratcliffe, National Security Advisor Michael Waltz and Ambassador and Special Envoy Steve Witkoff to lead negotiations.
Putin reportedly responded positively to the discussions and expressed willingness to cooperate. 
This decision follows a high-profile <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/global/25/02/43643471/trump-administration-secures-release-of-cannabis-prisoner-marc-fogel-from-14-year-russian-sentence">prisoner exchange</a> between Washington and Moscow. On Tuesday, Russia released American teacher Marc Fogel after three years of detention, while the U.S. freed Russian cybercriminal Alexander Vinnik.
Read Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/global/25/02/43643471/trump-administration-secures-release-of-cannabis-prisoner-marc-fogel-from-14-year-russian-sentence">Trump Administration Secures Release Of Cannabis Prisoner Marc Fogel From 14-Year Russian Sentence</a>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">What's Next For Ukraine And NATO?</h3>
The reaction from Kyiv remains cautious. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy also confirmed he had a "meaningful" conversation with Trump following the talks the U.S. President had with Putin.
&#8220;No one wants peace more than Ukraine. Together with the U.S., we are charting our next steps to stop Russian aggression and ensure a lasting, reliable peace,&#8221; Zelenskyy stated. 
The Ukrainian leader highlighted that Ukraine remains committed to defending its sovereignty.
Zelenskyy also met with Secretary of Security Scott Bessent, marking Bessent's first international visit. The two discussed preparing a new document outlining security, economic cooperation and resource partnerships.
Zelenskyy stressed the importance of preventing Moscow and its allies from gaining control over Ukraine and underscored the need for unified action across the free world.
"We expect to make progress by the Munich Security Conference," Zelenskyy said.
<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">I had a meeting with <a href="https://twitter.com/SecScottBessent?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SecScottBessent</a>—his first international visit, which was to Ukraine. We value our partnership with the United States, are grateful for the support in defending our independence, and strive to expand our joint capabilities—especially in security. Security… <a href="https://t.co/Px2VQ0Cnv0">pic.twitter.com/Px2VQ0Cnv0</a>
&mdash; Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) <a href="https://twitter.com/ZelenskyyUa/status/1889747140039311417?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 12, 2025</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
</figure>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Stock Market Reactions</h3>
Investors viewed the move as a sign of easing geopolitical tensions and a possible decrease in U.S. government spending on defense contractors.
The Energy Select Sector SPDR Fund (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XLE#NYSE">XLE</a>), representing major U.S. energy companies, tumbled by 2.24% on Wednesday, weighed down by lower oil prices. 
Shares of major U.S. defense contractors experienced marginal declines amid expectations of reduced defense spending following the potential de-escalation in Ukraine. 
Lockheed Martin Corp. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LMT#NYSE">LMT</a>) was down by 1.4% to $443.30, Northrop Grumman Corp. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NOC#NYSE">NOC</a>) eased by 0.5% to $471.70 and General Dynamics Corp. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GD#NYSE">GD</a>) dropped by 1.86% to $252.21.
Read now: 
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/etfs/broad-u-s-equity-etfs/25/02/43667841/inflation-runs-hot-in-january-houston-we-have-a-problem-experts-warn">Inflation Runs Hot In January: &#8216;Houston, We Have A Problem,&#8217; Experts Warn</a></li>
</ul>
Photo: Shutterstock

Government

Specialty ETFs

Commodities

Econ #s

Trump-Putin 'Highly Productive' Call Sparks Oil Sell-Off As Investors Eye Geopolitical De-Escalation

Citigroup analyst Jason Gursky maintains General Dynamics (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GD#NYSE">GD</a>) with a Buy and lowers the price target from $360 to $335.

Citigroup Maintains Buy on General Dynamics, Lowers Price Target to $335

General Dynamics's (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GD#NYSE">GD</a>) short percent of float has fallen 29.34% since its last report. The company recently reported that it has 2.90 million shares sold short, which is 1.18% of all regular shares that are available for trading. Based on its trading volume, it would take traders 2.08 days to cover their short positions on average.
<h3>Why Short Interest Matters</h3>
Short interest is the number of shares that have been sold short but have not yet been covered or closed out. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/how-to-short-a-stock/">Short selling</a> is when a trader sells shares of a company they do not own, with the hope that the price will fall. Traders make money from short selling if the price of the stock falls and they lose if it rises.
Short interest is important to track because it can act as an indicator of market sentiment towards a particular stock. An increase in short interest can signal that investors have become more bearish, while a decrease in short interest can signal they have become more bullish.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/short-interest">List of the most shorted stocks</a>
<h3>General Dynamics Short Interest Graph (3 Months)</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2025/1739206826_0.png" alt="short_fig" />
As you can see from the chart above the percentage of shares that are sold short for General Dynamics has declined since its last report. This does not mean that the stock is going to rise in the near-term but traders should be aware that less shares are being shorted.
<h3>Comparing General Dynamics's Short Interest Against Its Peers</h3>
Peer comparison is a popular technique amongst analysts and investors for gauging how well a company is performing. A company's peer is another company that has similar characteristics to it, such as industry, size, age, and financial structure. You can find a company's peer group by reading its 10-K, proxy filing, or by doing your own similarity analysis.
According to <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/">Benzinga Pro</a>, General Dynamics's peer group average for short interest as a percentage of float is 3.67%, which means the company has less short interest than most of its peers.
Did you know that increasing short interest can actually be bullish for a stock? <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/how-to-make-money-on-a-short-squeeze/">This post by Benzinga Money explains how you can profit from it.</a>
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and was reviewed by an editor.

Short Sellers

Short Ideas

Looking Into General Dynamics's Recent Short Interest

Barclays analyst David Strauss maintains General Dynamics (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GD#NYSE">GD</a>) with a Overweight and lowers the price target from $305 to $285.

Barclays Maintains Overweight on General Dynamics, Lowers Price Target to $285

RBC Capital Markets analyst Ken Herbert cut the price forecast for General Dynamics Corporation (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GD#NYSE">GD</a>) to $280 from $290, while <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/GD/analyst-ratings">reiterating an Sector Perform rating</a>.
On Wednesday, the company reported revenue growth of 14.3% year over year to $13.338 billion, beating the consensus of $12.77 billion and EPS of $4.15 (up 14% <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/43305515/general-dynamics-beats-q4-expectations-with-144-billion-contract-backlog">Y/Y), above the consensus of $4.10</a>.
In its conference call, the company said it expects a 2025 effective tax rate of 17.5%. The CEO said Gulfstream deliveries will be around 150 aircraft in 2025.
Also, the company expects 2025 total revenue of $50.3 billion and company-wide&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/calendars/guidance" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EPS to be around $14.80.</a>
The analyst writes that he remains optimistic about the 2025 Gulfstream outlook, however, muted free cash flow and limited margin expansion in defense, coupled with heightened uncertainty in the sector, remains a matter of concern.
In particular, Herbert recognized the execution challenges at Gulfstream but acknowledge the strong business jet demand, reflected in a 1x book-to-bill ratio for fourth-quarter 2024.
Following the company's revised 2025 guidance, the analyst now projects 150 deliveries in 2025 and 160 in 2026.
Additionally, aircraft services could offer upside potential with low double-digit growth, adds the analyst.
Apart from this, the analyst says that the submarine supply chain continues to face significant constraints, leading to persistent margin underperformance.
While revenue growth remains strong, Herbert remain cautious about the pace of margin improvement.
For 2026, the analyst expects overall defense portfolio margins to remain flat at approximately 9.5%, consistent with 2024 levels.
Also, the analyst believes that Trump 2.0 can pose greater risk for the GD defense portfolio outside of Marine.
Investors can gain exposure to the stock via&nbsp;Global X Funds Global X Defense Tech ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SHLD#NYSE">SHLD</a>)and&nbsp;First Trust Exchange-Traded Fund First Trust Indxx Aerospace &amp; Defense ETF&nbsp;(NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MISL#NYSE">MISL</a>).
Price Action: GDS shares are up 1.54% at $255.31 at the last check Thursday.
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Analyst Color

Reiteration

SHLD

General Dynamics' Growth Vs. Uncertainty: Analyst Flags Margin Challenges And Policy Risks

RBC Capital analyst Ken Herbert maintains General Dynamics (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GD#NYSE">GD</a>) with a Sector Perform and lowers the price target from $290 to $280.

RBC Capital Maintains Sector Perform on General Dynamics, Lowers Price Target to $280

JP Morgan analyst Seth Seifman maintains General Dynamics (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GD#NYSE">GD</a>) with a Overweight and lowers the price target from $307 to $284.

JP Morgan Maintains Overweight on General Dynamics, Lowers Price Target to $284

Susquehanna analyst Charles Minervino maintains General Dynamics (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GD#NYSE">GD</a>) with a Positive and lowers the price target from $315 to $300.

Susquehanna Maintains Positive on General Dynamics, Lowers Price Target to $300

Wells Fargo analyst Matthew Akers maintains General Dynamics (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GD#NYSE">GD</a>) with a Equal-Weight and lowers the price target from $279 to $276.

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