The escalation of the conflict between Iran and Israel in recent days has caused significant tremors in the financial markets. As rockets fly across the Middle East, certain companies, particularly in the defense and energy sectors, are already recording substantial increases in stock value.
As the conflict enters its fifth day, strong demand for advanced weaponry, missile defense systems, and intelligence technologies is expected in the markets.
The stock of American weapons manufacturer Lockheed Martin, the world’s largest defense contractor by revenue, reached a new historical level, closing trading at $676.70 after a rise of more than four percent. The F-35 fighter jets, precision-guided missiles, and radar systems from this company are at the center of the air campaign currently being conducted over and around Iran.
The growth has also spread to the rest of the defense sector
Shares of Northrop Grumman rose by about six percent, driven by interest in their stealth bombers and missile defense systems. RTX Corporation, formerly known as Raytheon, strengthened by nearly five percent, while L3Harris Technologies and General Dynamics also recorded solid growth.
A significant jump was also achieved by the technology company Palantir Technologies, whose analytical tools are used in intelligence operations. Its shares rose by nearly six percent.
Growth was also recorded in Europe, although somewhat more moderate. The German armored systems manufacturer Renk Group and the Italian defense company Leonardo also increased, as investors expect a rise in orders from NATO countries and additional export contracts.
Analysts point out that defense budgets, which were already planned for growth in 2026, are now facing even fewer political obstacles in Washington and European capitals.
U.S. President Donald Trump stated that operations could last ‘four to five weeks’ or ‘significantly longer,’ as Iran continues to launch missiles and drones at targets in the region. Financial markets are therefore preparing for a longer period of intense military activity.
Energy companies on the wave of rising prices
The rise in defense stocks sharply contrasts with the broader weakness of the market, demonstrating how the benefits of the crisis are concentrated in a small number of sectors. Alongside weapons manufacturers, the biggest winners at the moment are also energy companies. Iranian retaliatory attacks have already included strikes on energy facilities in Saudi Arabia and Qatar, as well as threats to close the Strait of Hormuz. This maritime passage accounts for about 20 percent of the world’s oil supply, so its closure could trigger a significant spike in energy prices. Due to the situation, the price of Brent oil has exceeded $85 per barrel, reaching its highest level since 2024. On this wave, the stocks of the largest oil companies have also risen rapidly.
