The space industry is increasingly positioned for consolidation as companies seek the scale needed to compete for a growing range of commercial and national-security opportunities, BofA Securities said in a note Wednesday.
The analysts said Rocket Lab (RKLB) exceeded expectations in Q3 due to strong profitability across business segments. While some of that strength reflected one-time items, underlying margins also came in ahead of forecasts.
The company has delayed the first launch of its Neutron rocket to 2026, though the analysts do not view the delay as a significant setback. Rocket Lab now has more than $1 billion in liquidity, providing room to expand into satellite and payload capabilities.
BofA maintained a buy rating and raised its price objective to $60 from $50.
Intuitive Machines (LUNR)'s planned acquisition of Lanteris Space Systems brings both opportunity and risk. The deal adds commercial and defense satellite expertise and enhances profitability, "although integration of the large acquisition and potential competition with Lanteris's existing customers are watch items that could limit near-term appreciation," the analysts said.
BofA reiterated its underperform rating and raised its price objective to $9.50 from $8.50.
Redwire (RDW) fell short of growth expectations, facing ongoing program-level cost pressures. The company reported $8.3 million in unfavorable "estimate at completion" charges in Q3, and revenue came in below consensus, with potential additional headwinds in Q4 from the recent US government shutdown.
The brokerage reiterated its underperform rating and lowered its price objective to $6 from $9.
Price: 43.12, Change: +0.34, Percent Change: +0.79
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