<div id="readability-page-1"><p>The recent conflict in Iran has sent ripples through the stock market, especially for companies that fuel our world and protect our borders. While some prices are jumping because of war news, others are moving because of long-term strategy. Here are five stocks to watch as the situation unfolds:</p><h3>Claim 70% Off TipRanks Premium</h3><ul><li>Unlock  hedge fund-level data  and  powerful investing tools  for smarter, sharper decisions  </li><li> Stay ahead of the market with  the latest news and analysis  and maximize your portfolio's potential</li></ul> <h2><strong>1. Lockheed Martin (LMT) – Missiles and Defense</strong></h2> <p>Lockheed Martin (LMT) is the world's largest defense contractor, and it is seeing massive demand as the U.S. military replaces weapons used in the Middle East. The company's stock jumped nearly 11% recently as governments placed fresh orders for missiles and aircraft. With a record backlog of $194 billion, Lockheed has enough work to keep its factories busy for years. Investors are keeping a close eye on its fortress of orders, especially since the company expects to see up to $80 billion in sales this year.</p> <h2><strong>2. Chevron (CVX) – Energy and Stability</strong></h2> <p>Chevron (CVX) is often seen as a safe-haven for investors who want to profit from high oil prices without taking on too much risk. As oil climbed toward $119 per barrel last week, Chevron's stock hit an all-time high near $200. Because Chevron handles everything from finding oil to selling gas at the pump, it is more stable than smaller companies. Even if oil prices settle down, Chevron's plan to cut $3 billion in costs by the end of 2026 keeps it in a very strong position.</p> <h2><strong>3. RTX Corporation (RTX) – Rapid Missile Growth</strong></h2> <p>Formerly known as Raytheon, RTX (RTX) is a leader in building the high-tech defense systems used to intercept drones and missiles. The stock has surged 55% over the last year and recently hit a record high of $215. To meet the urgent demand, RTX just finished a $115 million expansion of its missile facility in Alabama. This move will allow it to build 50% more missiles, including the famous Tomahawk and AMRAAM models that are critical for modern warfare.</p> <h2><strong>4. Northrop Grumman (NOC) – Stealth and Air Power</strong></h2> <p>Northrop Grumman (NOC) specializes in advanced technology like the B-21 stealth bomber. Its stock recently spiked 6% in a single day as tensions in the Middle East escalated. Investors view Northrop as a safe harbor during times of war because its top-quality tech is hard to replace. The company currently has a record $96 billion backlog, and analysts expect its revenue to keep growing as international demand for stealth and surveillance gear rises.</p> <h2><strong>5. Halliburton (HAL) – Oil Services and Rebuilding</strong></h2> <p>Unlike the big oil producers, Halliburton (HAL) provides the tools and workers needed to drill wells and fix infrastructure. While its stock has been a bit bumpy lately, dropping about 6% since the fighting started, experts say Halliburton is a stock to watch for the future. Once the conflict ends, there will be a huge need to rebuild oil sites in the Middle East. Halliburton's expertise in oil field services makes it a primary candidate to lead that multi-billion dollar effort.</p> <h2><strong>Key Takeaway</strong></h2> <p>The conflict in Iran is creating a complex market where some stocks win today while others prepare for tomorrow. Defense giants like Lockheed Martin, RTX, and Northrop Grumman are seeing record demand for weapons and high-tech gear. In the energy sector, Chevron remains a steady choice for investors during high oil prices. Finally, companies like Halliburton may see their biggest gains later when it is time to rebuild.</p> <p>We used the TipRanks Stock Comparison tool to see how these companies stack up side-by-side. It seems like the highest conviction pick, according to analysts, is RTX with a Strong Buy rating. RTX also has the highest upside potential from the average price target.</p></div>

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<p>The ongoing conflict in Iran is impacting the stock market, particularly in the energy and defense sectors. Key stocks to watch include Lockheed Martin (LMT), which has seen an 11% increase due to high demand for defense contracts; Chevron (CVX), reaching an all-time high as oil prices rise; RTX Corporation (RTX), experiencing a 55% surge with expanded missile production; Northrop Grumman (NOC), benefiting from increased demand for stealth technology; and Halliburton (HAL), poised for future growth in oil services post-conflict. Analysts favor RTX as a strong buy with significant upside potential.</p>

5 Stocks to Watch in Energy and Defense as the Iran Conflict Unfolds