Surge in U.S. Layoffs Alters Investment Strategies
Written by Emily J. Thompson, Senior Investment Analyst
Updated: 3d ago
0mins
Source: Benzinga
- Surge in Layoffs: January saw over 108,000 layoffs in the U.S., marking the worst start to the year since 2009, with hiring plans plummeting to record lows, indicating heightened economic uncertainty according to Challenger, Gray & Christmas.
- Focus on Wealth Preservation: Post-layoff, wealth creation takes a backseat to wealth preservation strategies, as financial planners recommend maintaining a substantial emergency fund to cover essential expenses like rent and insurance, thereby mitigating risks during market volatility.
- Income-Focused ETFs Gain Traction: With salary income halted, investors are turning to ETFs designed for cash flow, such as iShares Core U.S. Aggregate Bond ETF and Vanguard Total Bond Market ETF, which can modestly supplement cash reserves during unemployment, although they are not substitutes for regular paychecks.
- Gradual Investment Approach: Investing severance packages all at once exposes individuals to market timing risks; thus, gradual allocation strategies are advised to smooth entry points, especially when job searches extend longer than anticipated, ensuring liquidity amid economic uncertainty.
Trade with 70% Backtested Accuracy
Stop guessing "Should I Buy LMT?" and start using high-conviction signals backed by rigorous historical data.
Sign up today to access powerful investing tools and make smarter, data-driven decisions.
Analyst Views on LMT
Wall Street analysts forecast LMT stock price to fall over the next 12 months. According to Wall Street analysts, the average 1-year price target for LMT is 535.50 USD with a low forecast of 430.00 USD and a high forecast of 605.00 USD. However, analyst price targets are subjective and often lag stock prices, so investors should focus on the objective reasons behind analyst rating changes, which better reflect the company's fundamentals.
12 Analyst Rating
4 Buy
7 Hold
1 Sell
Hold
Current: 609.180
Low
430.00
Averages
535.50
High
605.00
Current: 609.180
Low
430.00
Averages
535.50
High
605.00
About LMT
Lockheed Martin Corporation is a global aerospace and defense company. The Company is engaged in the research, design, development, manufacture, integration and sustainment of advanced technology systems, products and services. Its segments include Aeronautics, Missiles and Fire Control (MFC), Rotary and Mission Systems (RMS) and Space. Aeronautics segment is engaged in the research, design, development, manufacture, integration, sustainment, support and upgrade of advanced military aircraft. MFC segment provides air and missile defense systems, manned and unmanned ground vehicles, energy management solutions, and others. RMS segment designs, manufactures, services and supports various military and commercial helicopters, surface ships, sea and land-based missile defense systems, and others. Its Space segment is engaged in the research and design, development, engineering and production of satellites, space transportation systems, and strategic, advanced strike, and defensive systems.
About the author
Emily J. Thompson
Emily J. Thompson, a Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) with 12 years in investment research, graduated with honors from the Wharton School. Specializing in industrial and technology stocks, she provides in-depth analysis for Intellectia’s earnings and market brief reports.
Global Military Spending Reaches Record High
- Surge in Military Spending: Global military expenditure reached a record $2.7 trillion in 2024, with the U.S. accounting for about half, as its 2026 budget is set at $1.48 trillion, reflecting a $500 billion increase from 2025, indicating a strong commitment to defense investment.
- Germany's Defense Budget Growth: Germany boosted its defense spending to €86 billion in 2025, becoming the fourth-largest military spender globally, and increased its 2026 budget by 25% to €108 billion, aiming for €152 billion by 2029, highlighting its focus on military modernization.
- Lockheed Martin's Revenue Growth: Lockheed Martin's sales grew 6% to $75 billion in 2025, with a slight decline in earnings per share, yet its net cash position surged 66% to $4.12 billion and operating cash flow skyrocketed 214% to $3.22 billion, showcasing strong financial performance amid rising defense spending.
- Rheinmetall's Sales Increase: Rheinmetall reported a 13% sales increase to €2.78 billion in Q3 2025, with operating margin rising to 12.9% and backlog growing 23% to €63.8 billion, projecting 35%-40% sales growth for 2025, indicating its strong position to benefit from Germany's defense budget expansion.
See More
Nuclear Energy ETF Leads New Investment Trend
- Emerging Investment Theme: Nuclear energy is recognized as a key power source for AI, with the Range Nuclear Renaissance Index ETF (NUKZ) amassing over $808 million in assets under management within just two years, reflecting strong market demand and investor confidence.
- Sector Allocation Advantage: The ETF's allocation to energy stocks stands at 13.20%, significantly higher than the category average of 2.14%, while its nearly 55% weight in industrial stocks enhances its performance during market fluctuations, increasing potential returns for investors.
- Global Investment Strategy: More than one-third of NUKZ's 45 holdings are from companies outside the U.S., providing investors with diversified revenue opportunities while maintaining exposure to the domestic market.
- Defensive Positioning: With an allocation of nearly 28% to the utilities sector, which is double that of competing funds, this ETF offers investors some protection in the event of a technology sell-off, demonstrating its robustness in uncertain market conditions.
See More
Nuclear ETFs Surge Amid Investment Opportunities
- Nuclear ETF Market Growth: There are nearly 10 dedicated nuclear or uranium ETFs currently available, with the Range Nuclear Renaissance Index ETF (NUKZ) managing over $808 million in assets within just two years, reflecting strong investor confidence and demand in the nuclear sector.
- Outperforming Competitors: NUKZ has outperformed many more well-known rivals, primarily due to its significant overweight in energy stocks (13.20%) and nearly 55% allocation to industrial stocks, which has generated unexpected gains in its portfolio.
- Global Investment Portfolio: More than a third of the ETF's 45 holdings are from companies outside the U.S., providing geographic diversification that appeals to investors looking to maintain domestic exposure while capitalizing on growth from international markets.
- Defensive Positioning Advantage: With an allocation of nearly 28% to the utilities sector, which is more than double that of competing funds, NUKZ's defensive posture may offer protection for investors amid recent technology sell-offs, enhancing its attractiveness.
See More
Trump Administration Invests in Critical Minerals Sector
- Scale of Government Investment: The Trump administration's equity stakes in at least 10 companies, including USA Rare Earth and MP Materials, represent an unprecedented scale aimed at reducing reliance on Chinese rare earths, potentially altering market competition dynamics.
- Legal Risk Concerns: The lack of a clear legal basis for these investments exposes the Trump administration to lawsuits from competitors and political scrutiny during potential regime changes, increasing operational uncertainties for the involved companies.
- Capital Allocation Risks: Government equity stakes raise concerns about capital misallocation, as funds may flow to less competitive companies, which could adversely affect the overall health of the market and investor confidence.
- Corporate Silence: Despite some executives expressing distaste for government intervention, most corporate leaders remain silent, fearing that public opposition could strain relations with the administration and negatively impact shareholder interests.
See More
Trump Administration Increases Investments in Critical Minerals
- Surge in Investments: The Trump administration has made unprecedented equity investments in at least 10 companies over the past year, including critical minerals and chipmakers, aiming to build a domestic supply chain and reduce reliance on China, indicating a proactive government role in economic strategy.
- U.S. Steel Golden Share: The administration secured a golden share in U.S. Steel as a condition for approving Nippon Steel's acquisition, granting the president veto power over key business decisions, which ensures stability and growth in the U.S. steel industry, reflecting direct government intervention in vital sectors.
- Strategic Deal with MP Materials: The Defense Department struck a landmark deal with MP Materials, investing $400 million in preferred stock with rights to purchase additional shares, positioning the Pentagon as the largest single shareholder and further solidifying U.S. dominance in the rare earth mining sector.
- L3Harris and Defense Partnership: L3Harris announced a proposed partnership with the U.S. government, where the Pentagon will invest $1 billion in its rocket motor business, with plans for an IPO in the second half of 2026, allowing the Pentagon's investment to convert into common equity, enhancing the capital base of the defense industry.
See More
Lockheed Martin Announces Q1 2026 Dividend
- Dividend Announcement: Lockheed Martin's board has authorized a Q1 2026 dividend of $3.45 per share, payable on March 27, 2026, reflecting the company's commitment to shareholder returns amid strong earnings.
- Record Date: The record date for the dividend is set for March 2, 2026, ensuring that investors holding shares by this date will receive the dividend, which enhances investor confidence in the company's stability.
- Capital Allocation Strategy: The company is significantly increasing investments while maintaining a disciplined and dynamic approach to capital allocation, indicating its ability to balance growth and returns, which boosts market expectations for future performance.
- Innovation Focus: As a global defense technology company, Lockheed Martin is dedicated to driving innovation and scientific discovery, with its all-domain mission solutions and 21st Century Security® vision accelerating the delivery of transformative technologies to keep clients ahead of the curve.
See More
Global Military Spending Reaches Record High
- Surge in Military Spending: Global military expenditure reached a record $2.7 trillion in 2024, with the U.S. accounting for about half, as its 2026 budget is set at $1.48 trillion, reflecting a $500 billion increase from 2025, indicating a strong commitment to defense investment.
- Germany's Defense Budget Growth: Germany boosted its defense spending to €86 billion in 2025, becoming the fourth-largest military spender globally, and increased its 2026 budget by 25% to €108 billion, aiming for €152 billion by 2029, highlighting its focus on military modernization.
- Lockheed Martin's Revenue Growth: Lockheed Martin's sales grew 6% to $75 billion in 2025, with a slight decline in earnings per share, yet its net cash position surged 66% to $4.12 billion and operating cash flow skyrocketed 214% to $3.22 billion, showcasing strong financial performance amid rising defense spending.
- Rheinmetall's Sales Increase: Rheinmetall reported a 13% sales increase to €2.78 billion in Q3 2025, with operating margin rising to 12.9% and backlog growing 23% to €63.8 billion, projecting 35%-40% sales growth for 2025, indicating its strong position to benefit from Germany's defense budget expansion.
See More
Nuclear Energy ETF Leads New Investment Trend
- Emerging Investment Theme: Nuclear energy is recognized as a key power source for AI, with the Range Nuclear Renaissance Index ETF (NUKZ) amassing over $808 million in assets under management within just two years, reflecting strong market demand and investor confidence.
- Sector Allocation Advantage: The ETF's allocation to energy stocks stands at 13.20%, significantly higher than the category average of 2.14%, while its nearly 55% weight in industrial stocks enhances its performance during market fluctuations, increasing potential returns for investors.
- Global Investment Strategy: More than one-third of NUKZ's 45 holdings are from companies outside the U.S., providing investors with diversified revenue opportunities while maintaining exposure to the domestic market.
- Defensive Positioning: With an allocation of nearly 28% to the utilities sector, which is double that of competing funds, this ETF offers investors some protection in the event of a technology sell-off, demonstrating its robustness in uncertain market conditions.
See More
Nuclear ETFs Surge Amid Investment Opportunities
- Nuclear ETF Market Growth: There are nearly 10 dedicated nuclear or uranium ETFs currently available, with the Range Nuclear Renaissance Index ETF (NUKZ) managing over $808 million in assets within just two years, reflecting strong investor confidence and demand in the nuclear sector.
- Outperforming Competitors: NUKZ has outperformed many more well-known rivals, primarily due to its significant overweight in energy stocks (13.20%) and nearly 55% allocation to industrial stocks, which has generated unexpected gains in its portfolio.
- Global Investment Portfolio: More than a third of the ETF's 45 holdings are from companies outside the U.S., providing geographic diversification that appeals to investors looking to maintain domestic exposure while capitalizing on growth from international markets.
- Defensive Positioning Advantage: With an allocation of nearly 28% to the utilities sector, which is more than double that of competing funds, NUKZ's defensive posture may offer protection for investors amid recent technology sell-offs, enhancing its attractiveness.
See More
Trump Administration Invests in Critical Minerals Sector
- Scale of Government Investment: The Trump administration's equity stakes in at least 10 companies, including USA Rare Earth and MP Materials, represent an unprecedented scale aimed at reducing reliance on Chinese rare earths, potentially altering market competition dynamics.
- Legal Risk Concerns: The lack of a clear legal basis for these investments exposes the Trump administration to lawsuits from competitors and political scrutiny during potential regime changes, increasing operational uncertainties for the involved companies.
- Capital Allocation Risks: Government equity stakes raise concerns about capital misallocation, as funds may flow to less competitive companies, which could adversely affect the overall health of the market and investor confidence.
- Corporate Silence: Despite some executives expressing distaste for government intervention, most corporate leaders remain silent, fearing that public opposition could strain relations with the administration and negatively impact shareholder interests.
See More
Trump Administration Increases Investments in Critical Minerals
- Surge in Investments: The Trump administration has made unprecedented equity investments in at least 10 companies over the past year, including critical minerals and chipmakers, aiming to build a domestic supply chain and reduce reliance on China, indicating a proactive government role in economic strategy.
- U.S. Steel Golden Share: The administration secured a golden share in U.S. Steel as a condition for approving Nippon Steel's acquisition, granting the president veto power over key business decisions, which ensures stability and growth in the U.S. steel industry, reflecting direct government intervention in vital sectors.
- Strategic Deal with MP Materials: The Defense Department struck a landmark deal with MP Materials, investing $400 million in preferred stock with rights to purchase additional shares, positioning the Pentagon as the largest single shareholder and further solidifying U.S. dominance in the rare earth mining sector.
- L3Harris and Defense Partnership: L3Harris announced a proposed partnership with the U.S. government, where the Pentagon will invest $1 billion in its rocket motor business, with plans for an IPO in the second half of 2026, allowing the Pentagon's investment to convert into common equity, enhancing the capital base of the defense industry.
See More
Lockheed Martin Announces Q1 2026 Dividend
- Dividend Announcement: Lockheed Martin's board has authorized a Q1 2026 dividend of $3.45 per share, payable on March 27, 2026, reflecting the company's commitment to shareholder returns amid strong earnings.
- Record Date: The record date for the dividend is set for March 2, 2026, ensuring that investors holding shares by this date will receive the dividend, which enhances investor confidence in the company's stability.
- Capital Allocation Strategy: The company is significantly increasing investments while maintaining a disciplined and dynamic approach to capital allocation, indicating its ability to balance growth and returns, which boosts market expectations for future performance.
- Innovation Focus: As a global defense technology company, Lockheed Martin is dedicated to driving innovation and scientific discovery, with its all-domain mission solutions and 21st Century Security® vision accelerating the delivery of transformative technologies to keep clients ahead of the curve.
See More
