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Diversified Healthcare Trust (NASDAQ: DHC - Get Free Report) was the recipient of a significant increase in short interest in March. As of March 13th, there was short interest totaling 7,519,124 shares, an increase of 20.6% from the February 26th total of 6,237,195 shares. Approximately 3.5% of the shares of the company are short sold. Based

NEWTON, Mass.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Diversified Healthcare Trust (Nasdaq: DHC) today announced a regular quarterly cash distribution on its common shares of $0.01 per share ($0.04 per share per year). This distribution will be paid to DHC's common shareholders of record as of the close of business on April 21, 2026 and distributed on or about May 14, 2026. About Diversified Healthcare Trust: DHC is a real estate investment trust, or REIT, focused on owning high-quality healthcare properties located.

Diversified Healthcare (DHC - Free Report) came out with quarterly funds from operations (FFO) of $0.14 per share, beating the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $0.13 per share. This compares to FFO of $0.06 per share a year ago. These figures are adjusted for non-recurring items.

This quarterly report represents an FFO surprise of +7.69%. A quarter ago, it was expected that this residential care real estate investment trust would post FFO of $0.12 per share when it actually produced FFO of $0.09, delivering a surprise of -25%.

Over the last four quarters, the company has surpassed consensus FFO estimates just once.

Diversified Healthcare, which belongs to the Zacks REIT and Equity Trust - Other industry, posted revenues of $366.47 million for the quarter ended March 2026, missing the Zacks Consensus Estimate by 1.23%. This compares to year-ago revenues of $386.86 million. The company has topped consensus revenue estimates just once over the last four quarters.

The sustainability of the stock's immediate price movement based on the recently-released numbers and future FFO expectations will mostly depend on management's commentary on the earnings call.

Diversified Healthcare shares have added about 61.7% since the beginning of the year versus the S&P 500's gain of 5.6%.

What's Next for Diversified Healthcare?While Diversified Healthcare has outperformed the market so far this year, the question that comes to investors' minds is: what's next for the stock?

There are no easy answers to this key question, but one reliable measure that can help investors address this is the company's FFO outlook. Not only does this include current consensus FFO expectations for the coming quarter(s), but also how these expectations have changed lately.

Empirical research shows a strong correlation between near-term stock movements and trends in estimate revisions. Investors can track such revisions by themselves or rely on a tried-and-tested rating tool like the Zacks Rank, which has an impressive track record of harnessing the power of estimate revisions.

Ahead of this earnings release, the estimate revisions trend for Diversified Healthcare was mixed. While the magnitude and direction of estimate revisions could change following the company's just-released earnings report, the current status translates into a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold) for the stock. So, the shares are expected to perform in line with the market in the near future. You can see the complete list of today's Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.

It will be interesting to see how estimates for the coming quarters and the current fiscal year change in the days ahead. The current consensus FFO estimate is $0.14 on $383.19 million in revenues for the coming quarter and $0.57 on $1.55 billion in revenues for the current fiscal year.

Investors should be mindful of the fact that the outlook for the industry can have a material impact on the performance of the stock as well. In terms of the Zacks Industry Rank, REIT and Equity Trust - Other is currently in the top 20% of the 250 plus Zacks industries. Our research shows that the top 50% of the Zacks-ranked industries outperform the bottom 50% by a factor of more than 2 to 1.

Another stock from the same industry, Gladstone Land (LAND - Free Report) , has yet to report results for the quarter ended March 2026. The results are expected to be released on May 11.

This real estate investment trust specializing in farmland is expected to post quarterly earnings of $0.01 per share in its upcoming report, which represents a year-over-year change of -83.3%. The consensus EPS estimate for the quarter has remained unchanged over the last 30 days.

Gladstone Land's revenues are expected to be $14.2 million, down 15.5% from the year-ago quarter.

NEWTON, Mass.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Diversified Healthcare Trust (Nasdaq: DHC) today announced that President and Chief Executive Officer Chris Bilotto and Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer Matthew Brown will be presenting at Nareit's REITweek 2026 Investor Conference in New York, NY on Tuesday, June 2, 2026 at 1:45 p.m. Eastern Time. A live audio webcast of the presentation will be available in a listen-only mode on the company's website at https://www.dhcreit.com/investors/events-and-presenta.

NEWTON, Mass.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Diversified Healthcare Trust (Nasdaq: DHC) today announced that it has increased its full year 2026 guidance, driven by disciplined expense management, procurement efficiencies and cost savings from recent operator transitions, as well as continued improvements across its senior housing operating portfolio (“SHOP”).

DHC now expects full year 2026 SHOP net operating income (“NOI”) to be in the range of $185 million to $195 million, an increase from its prior guidance range, issued on February 23, 2026 and confirmed most recently on May 4, 2026, of $175 million to $185 million. As a result, DHC now expects 2026 total NOI to be in the range of $307 million to $323 million, compared to its prior guidance range of $297 million to $313 million, and Adjusted EBITDAre is now expected to be between $300 million and $315 million, a $10 million increase at the midpoint. Normalized funds from operations (“Normalized FFO”) per share is now expected to be in the range of $0.56 to $0.62, a $0.04 increase at the midpoint.

Chris Bilotto, President and Chief Executive Officer of DHC, made the following statement:

“Our increased 2026 NOI guidance reflects strong execution across our SHOP portfolio, including disciplined expense management and the early benefits of our recent operator transitions. We are realizing meaningful cost efficiencies, particularly within food and beverage and labor, while continuing to drive revenue growth through occupancy gains and rate increases. We expect these operational improvements to continue throughout 2026, supported by active asset management and favorable industry fundamentals, including sustained demand and limited new supply. We believe this positions us to deliver continued margin expansion and achieve our revised NOI guidance for the remainder of 2026.”

DHC’s updated SHOP NOI guidance assumes approximately 300 basis points of year-over-year occupancy growth, revenue growth of approximately 8.0%, and average monthly rate increases of approximately 5.3%, partially offset by operating expense growth of approximately 4.5%. An updated investor presentation reflecting DHC’s revised guidance and assumptions can be accessed on the Investors section of DHC’s website at www.dhcreit.com. DHC does not provide a reconciliation of non-generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”) measures that it discloses as part of its annual guidance or long term outlook because certain significant information required for such reconciliation is not available without unreasonable efforts, or at all, including, most notably, impairment of assets, gain (loss) on sale of properties, loss on modification or early extinguishment of debt and equity in net earnings of investees. These items that would be contained in the comparable GAAP measures are not indicative of DHC’s ongoing operations, are uncertain, depend on various factors, and could have a material impact on DHC’s GAAP results for the guidance period.

About Diversified Healthcare Trust

DHC is a real estate investment trust focused on owning high-quality healthcare properties located throughout the United States. DHC seeks diversification across the health services spectrum by care delivery and practice type, by scientific research disciplines and by property type and location. As of March 31, 2026, DHC’s approximately $6.2 billion portfolio included 285 properties in 33 states and Washington, D.C., with 23,901 senior living units, approximately 5.6 million square feet of medical office and life science properties and occupied by approximately 250 tenants. DHC is managed by The RMR Group (Nasdaq: RMR), a leading U.S. alternative asset management company with over $37 billion in assets under management as of March 31, 2026 and 40 years of institutional experience in buying, selling, financing and operating commercial real estate. DHC is headquartered in Newton, MA. For more information, visit www.dhcreit.com.

WARNING CONCERNING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

This press release contains statements that constitute forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and other securities laws. Also, whenever DHC uses words such as “believe”, “expect”, “anticipate”, “seek”, “intend”, “plan”, “estimate”, “will”, “may” and negatives or derivatives of these or similar expressions, DHC is making forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are based upon DHC’s present intent, beliefs or expectations, but forward-looking statements are not guaranteed to occur and may not occur. For example:

This press release includes DHC’s full year 2026 guidance, including with respect to NOI, Adjusted EBITDAre and Normalized FFO. However, DHC’s guidance is based on certain assumptions, which may not occur. As a result, DHC may not achieve the expected results provided in its guidance. Mr. Bilotto made statements in this press release regarding strong execution across DHC’s SHOP portfolio and expected operational improvements, active asset management and favorable industry fundamentals. However, DHC may not be able to continue to realize cost efficiencies and drive revenue growth through occupancy gains and rate increases as and/or when expected. Further, DHC cannot be sure that industry fundamentals will remain favorable. As result, DHC may not be able to deliver continued margin expansion in the SHOP portfolio and achieve its revised guidance for the remainder of 2026. Actual results may differ materially from those contained in or implied by DHC’s forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, some of which are beyond DHC’s control.

The information contained in DHC’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”), including under “Risk Factors” in DHC’s periodic reports, or incorporated therein, identifies other important factors that could cause DHC’s actual results to differ materially from those stated in or implied by DHC’s forward-looking statements. DHC’s filings with the SEC are available on the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov.

You should not place undue reliance upon forward-looking statements.

Except as required by law, DHC does not intend to update or change any forward-looking statements as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.‎

A Maryland Real Estate Investment Trust with transferable shares of beneficial interest listed on the Nasdaq.
No shareholder, Trustee or officer is personally liable for any act or obligation of the Trust.

Diversified Healthcare Trust is executing a strategic transformation, reducing net debt and selling assets while driving revenue and EBITDA growth. Despite a smaller property portfolio, DHC has improved occupancy rates and average monthly rates, particularly in its Senior Housing Operating Portfolio. Management raised 2026 guidance for NOI, EBITDA, and adjusted FFO per share, reflecting operational momentum and cost-cutting successes.

HERNDON, Va.--(BUSINESS WIRE)---- $BKSY #earnings--BlackSky Technology Inc. (“BlackSky” or the “Company”) (NYSE: BKSY) announced results for the first quarter ended March 31, 2026. “With up to $160 million in new contract wins, we are rapidly growing revenues driven by the demand for Gen-3 space-based intelligence and AI services,” said Brian E. O'Toole, BlackSky CEO. “We are raising our guidance for the year based on strong year-to-date sales performance, in-year revenue visibility, and accelerated demand for bes.

BlackSky Technology Inc. (BKSY - Free Report) reported $20.77 million in revenue for the quarter ended March 2026, representing a year-over-year decline of 29.7%. EPS of -$0.82 for the same period compares to -$0.42 a year ago.

The reported revenue compares to the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $28.33 million, representing a surprise of -26.66%. The company delivered an EPS surprise of -120.13%, with the consensus EPS estimate being -$0.37.

While investors scrutinize revenue and earnings changes year-over-year and how they compare with Wall Street expectations to determine their next move, some key metrics always offer a more accurate picture of a company's financial health.

As these metrics influence top- and bottom-line performance, comparing them to the year-ago numbers and what analysts estimated helps investors project a stock's price performance more accurately.

Here is how BlackSky Technology performed in the just reported quarter in terms of the metrics most widely monitored and projected by Wall Street analysts:

Revenue- Space-based intelligence & AI services: $16.52 million versus the two-analyst average estimate of $16.83 million.Revenue- Mission solutions: $2.01 million versus the two-analyst average estimate of $8.59 million.Revenue- Advanced technology programs: $2.25 million compared to the $5.57 million average estimate based on two analysts.View all Key Company Metrics for BlackSky Technology here>>>

Shares of BlackSky Technology have returned +21.3% over the past month versus the Zacks S&P 500 composite's +11.4% change. The stock currently has a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold), indicating that it could perform in line with the broader market in the near term.

BlackSky Technology Inc. (BKSY) Q1 2026 Earnings Call Transcript

Space stocks were in focus this week as earnings reports highlighted surging defense demand, growing satellite and launch backlogs,and continued investment in next-generation space infrastructure. 

While several companies posted record revenue or raised guidance, losses remained a theme across the sector as firms scale production and chase defense and national security opportunities.

RKLB stock is soaring. See the chart and price action here.  Voyager TechnologiesCEO Dylan Taylor called 2025 "a transformational year," saying demand across "defense, national security and space continues to accelerate." 

He added that Voyager is entering 2026 "from a position of strength," focused on converting demand into "sustained revenue growth and long-term shareholder value."

CEO Jason Kim said "momentum defined Firefly's first quarter," citing Golden Dome work, Blue Ghost milestones, Alpha Flight 7 and a U.S. Space Force demonstration. 

Kim said the company remains focused on scaling production for "frequent landings on the Moon, a regular launch cadence, and critical national security missions."

RedwireCEO Peter Cannito said "very strong demand" and wins including the $1.8 billion Andromeda IDIQ show Redwire has "many pathways to success." 

CFO Chris Edmunds pointed to gross margin improvement to 26.6% and said Redwire is reaffirming 2026 revenue guidance of $450 million to $500 million.

Rocket LabRocket Lab Corp. (NASDAQ:RKLB) delivered record Q1 revenue of $200.3 million, up 63.5% year over year, and backlog of more than $2.2 billion. 

Founder and CEO Peter Beck said, "With revenue, we topped $200 million in the quarter for the first time," and called gross margins "excellent" at 38.2% GAAP and 43% non-GAAP.  Rocket Lab guided Q2 revenue to $225 million to $240 million.

RKLB shares were up 25% on Friday, according to Benzinga Pro data. 

BlackSkyBlackSky Technology Inc. (NYSE:BKSY) reported Q1 revenue of $20.8 million. That’s down from $29.5 million a year earlier. However, the company raised full-year revenue guidance to $130 million to $150 million. 

CEO Brian O'Toole said BlackSky is "rapidly growing revenues driven by the demand for Gen-3 space-based intelligence and AI services" after winning up to $160 million in new contracts. 

He said the company is raising guidance on "strong year-to-date sales performance" and "accelerated demand" in its pipeline.

Coming Next WeekPhoto: Shutterstock

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BlackSky Technology reported a disappointing Q1, with revenues down 29.5% year-over-year and EPS badly missing expectations. BKSY raised full-year midpoint revenue guidance to $140 million, implying 31% growth, but so far that optimism isn't reflected in results. The stock trades at 16x EV/Sales despite stagnant revenues, leaving valuation highly vulnerable if sector momentum fades or the company misses guidance.

HERNDON, Va.--(BUSINESS WIRE)---- $BKSY #AI--BlackSky awarded a seven-figure subscription contract with a new government customer for new and advanced Gen-2 mission applications.

HERNDON, Va.--(BUSINESS WIRE)---- $BKSY--BlackSky Technology Inc. (NYSE: BKSY) will participate in the following upcoming investor events in May and June. 2026 Jefferies Virtual Space Summit Date: Tuesday, May 26, 2026 Fireside Chat: Henry Dubois, BlackSky chief financial officer 23rd Annual Craig-Hallum Institutional Investor Conference Date: Thursday, May 28, 2026 Location: Depot Renaissance Hotel (Minneapolis, MN) Morgan Stanley National Security Innovation Summit Date: Monday, June 15, 2026 Location:.

BlackSky Secures Seven-Figure, Multi-Year Renewal Contract to Accelerate Automation of Future Non-Earth Imagery Services BlackSky Technology Inc. (NYSE: BKSY) was awarded a seven-figure, multi-year contract renewal to accelerate the automation of future non-Earth imagery (NEI) services. This follow-on agreement expands the program’s scope toward the exploration of next-generation imaging payload and specialized mission-planning software solutions that support the real-time speed, scale and reliability of space domain awareness (SDA) operations.

“This contract validates confidence in BlackSky’s ability to rapidly design and field cutting-edge space technologies that strengthen our customer’s superiority in space, especially in an increasingly congested and contested orbital environment,” said Brian O’Toole, BlackSky CEO. “We are making advancements toward a fully automated, dynamic space-to-space collection system, leveraging the successful operational heritage of Gen-2 by integrating our proven Gen-3 architecture with a specially designed imaging payload to expand coverage and capacity across the space domain and deliver NEI services at disruptive speed and economics.”

As part of this contract, BlackSky will deliver timely, very high-resolution imagery and AI-enabled analytics of on-orbit objects that gives decision-makers a dual-use capability in a single platform that is flexible for both Earth observation and highly dynamic space domain awareness missions.

“BlackSky’s Gen-3 architecture continues to demonstrate superior technical scalability and performance, supporting both advanced EO and SDA missions, such as tracking unidentified satellites or monitoring debris fields in low-Earth orbit,” said O’Toole.

This contract underscores BlackSky’s strategic commitment to innovation, blending its proven space heritage with agile, future-forward engineering to secure the space domain for our national security partners. Delivering NEI capabilities gives BlackSky the ability to leverage underutilized capacity typically associated with satellites passing over the ocean or satellites in eclipse, traveling across the dark side of Earth. This enhances BlackSky’s service offering and supports mission success across the realm of space security.

BlackSky’s entire technology stack, from its foundational high-cadence Gen-2 capabilities to its advanced very high-resolution Gen-3 monitoring and upcoming large area AROS platforms, is defined by an AI-first, software-oriented framework designed to support responsive, dynamic real-time surveillance across all domains. BlackSky delivers flexible access to space-based imagery and AI-enabled analytics data via On-Demand and Assured subscription-based services or full sovereign systems. This full-technology stack ensures customers receive real-time insights exactly when and where they need them most.

About BlackSky

BlackSky is a real-time, space-based intelligence company that delivers on-demand, high frequency imagery, analytics, and high-frequency monitoring of the most critical and strategic locations, economic assets, and events in the world. BlackSky owns and operates one of the industry’s most advanced, purpose-built commercial, real-time intelligence systems that combines the power of the BlackSky Spectra® tasking and analytics software platform and our proprietary low earth orbit satellite constellation.

With BlackSky, customers can see, understand and anticipate changes for a decisive strategic advantage at the tactical edge, and act not just fast, but first. BlackSky is trusted by some of the most demanding U.S. and international government agencies, commercial businesses, and organizations around the world. BlackSky is headquartered in Herndon, VA, and is publicly traded on the New York Stock Exchange as BKSY. To learn more, visit www.blacksky.com and follow us on X.

Forward-Looking Statements

Certain statements in this press release may contain forward-looking statements within the meaning of the federal securities laws with respect to BlackSky. These forward-looking statements generally are identified by the words “believe,” “project,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “estimate,” “intend,” “strategy,” “future,” “opportunity,” “plan,” “may,” “should,” “will,” “would,” “will be,” “will continue,” “will likely result,” and similar expressions. Forward-looking statements are predictions, projections, and other statements about future events that are based on current expectations and assumptions and, as a result, are subject to risks and uncertainties. Many factors could cause actual future events to differ materially from the forward-looking statements in this document. If any of these risks materialize or underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results could differ materially from the results implied by these forward-looking statements. In addition, forward-looking statements reflect our expectations, plans, or forecasts of future events and views as of the date of this communication. We anticipate that subsequent events and developments will cause their assessments to change. Accordingly, forward-looking statements should not be relied upon as representing our views as of any subsequent date, and we do not undertake any obligation to update forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date they were made, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as may be required under applicable securities laws. Additional risks and uncertainties are identified and discussed in BlackSky’s disclosure materials filed from time to time with the SEC which are available at the SEC’s website at http://www.sec.gov or on BlackSky’s Investor Relations website at https://ir.blacksky.com.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260528950629/en/

BlackSky Technology shares are retreating from recent levels. Why are BKSY shares down? Jefferies Downgrade Hits A Stretched ChartWith the stock now trading at $48.47 and sitting close to its 52‑week high of $52.88, Jefferies sees limited room for further upside.

Konrad also noted that the excitement lifting the stock has been tied to broader enthusiasm around the space sector rather than changes in BlackSky's underlying business. He said recent space‑related headlines have had little to do with the company's core market and have not altered the long‑term bullish thesis.

The issue, in Jefferies' view, is simply that the stock has already priced in much of the expected momentum, including the company's projected 20% to 30% annual organic growth path.

BlackSky Technical AnalysisEven after Monday's drop, BKSY is still in a clear longer-term uptrend: it's trading 18.8% above its 50-day SMA at $36.04 and 72.9% above its 200-day SMA at $24.77, and the 50-day remains above the 200-day. That combination typically signals that pullbacks are being treated as corrections within an uptrend, until price starts losing those intermediate averages.

Near-term, the stock is hovering just 0.7% above its 20-day SMA at $42.52 but is below its 20-day EMA at $43.61, which often acts like a "fast" trend gauge during momentum phases. That setup suggests the stock is testing whether the recent up-move can hold its short-term trend support, or whether it needs more time to consolidate after the May swing high and the March swing low.

For momentum, MACD is the cleaner read right now: it's above its signal line and the histogram is positive, which points to improving momentum versus the prior downswing. In plain terms, when MACD is above the signal line, it suggests downside pressure is easing, even if the stock is choppy day-to-day.

Key Resistance: $52.88 — the 52-week high from May is the obvious overhead supply zone Key Support: $42.52 — the 20-day SMA is nearby and is a common "line in the sand" during pullbacks BKSY Shares Are PlungingBKSY Price Action: BlackSky shares were down 11.41% at $42.94 at the time of publication on Monday, according to Benzinga Pro.

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Effort funds rapid development of multi-spectral, large-area mapping spacecraft and foundation data collection system in 2028

HERNDON, Va.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--BlackSky Technology Inc. (NYSE: BKSY) was awarded a contract modification to its existing National Reconnaissance Office (NRO) contract to accelerate the development of the company’s AROS broad area collection satellites as a critical commercial alternative to current suppliers for foundation imagery. The effort funds a direct path toward a flight ready multi-spectral, large-area mapping spacecraft and foundation data collection system in 2028.

AROS will provide an optimal balance between leap-ahead technology capabilities at very competitive speed and economics and fill anticipated market gaps as aging commercial large area collection satellites come out of service.

Share “Developing BlackSky’s AROS constellation in partnership with the U.S. government cements a major step in securing U.S. global space competitiveness, resilience and maintaining critical operational continuity as commercially available foundation data becomes capacity-constrained in the coming years,” said Brian O’Toole, BlackSky CEO. “BlackSky will design, develop and field the next generation of high-performance, AI-ready geospatial foundation data satellites, leveraging the proven heritage and reliability of our advanced Gen-3 architecture and vertically integrated agile manufacturing infrastructure.”

These new satellites will be designed to support dynamic country-scale digital mapping, navigation, maritime situational awareness and 3D digital twin applications. The AROS system will operate as an integrated extension of the company’s existing fleet, incorporating BlackSky’s space, software and platform stack and unlocking an entirely new class of scalable, AI capabilities.

“AROS will provide an optimal balance between leap-ahead technology capabilities at very competitive speed and economics and fill anticipated market gaps as aging commercial large area collection satellites come out of service,” added O’Toole.

Once on orbit, integrating AROS and Gen-3 establishes a complementary tip-and-cue workflow where large-area surveillance can identify activity that drives dynamic point monitoring at national and regional scale. As the satellites work in tandem, AI-enabled analytics that detect and characterize aircraft, vessels and vehicles provide decision makers with real-time strategic and tactical insights over broad geographic areas.

The system architecture will also showcase a new proprietary data pipeline designed to feed real-time and retrospective AI analytics, model training and decision support tools and will be ready for deployment and integration into customer workflows within a relatively short timeframe. The modern AROS foundation enterprise is expected to support automated feature extraction, the generation of Earth digital twin systems and expedite the automated production of navigation safety applications.

About BlackSky

BlackSky is a real-time, space-based intelligence company that delivers on-demand, high frequency imagery, analytics, and high-frequency monitoring of the most critical and strategic locations, economic assets and events in the world. BlackSky owns and operates one of the industry’s most advanced, purpose-built commercial, real-time intelligence systems that combines the power of the BlackSky Spectra® tasking and analytics software platform and our proprietary low Earth orbit satellite constellation.

With BlackSky, customers can see, understand and anticipate changes for a decisive strategic advantage at the tactical edge, and act not just fast, but first. BlackSky is trusted by some of the most demanding U.S. and international government agencies, commercial businesses, and organizations around the world. BlackSky is headquartered in Herndon, VA, and is publicly traded on the New York Stock Exchange as BKSY. To learn more, visit www.blacksky.com and follow us on X.

Forward-Looking Statements

Certain statements in this press release may contain forward-looking statements within the meaning of the federal securities laws with respect to BlackSky. These forward-looking statements generally are identified by the words “believe,” “project,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “estimate,” “intend,” “strategy,” “future,” “opportunity,” “plan,” “may,” “should,” “will,” “would,” “will be,” “will continue,” “will likely result,” and similar expressions. Forward-looking statements are predictions, projections, and other statements about future events that are based on current expectations and assumptions and, as a result, are subject to risks and uncertainties. Many factors could cause actual future events to differ materially from the forward-looking statements in this document. If any of these risks materialize or underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results could differ materially from the results implied by these forward-looking statements. In addition, forward-looking statements reflect our expectations, plans, or forecasts of future events and views as of the date of this communication. We anticipate that subsequent events and developments will cause their assessments to change. Accordingly, forward-looking statements should not be relied upon as representing our views as of any subsequent date, and we do not undertake any obligation to update forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date they were made, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as may be required under applicable securities laws. Additional risks and uncertainties are identified and discussed in BlackSky’s disclosure materials filed from time to time with the SEC which are available at the SEC’s website at http://www.sec.gov or on BlackSky’s Investor Relations website at https://ir.blacksky.com.

More News From BlackSky Technology Inc.

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Key Takeaways Leveraged space and AI-linked ETFs dominated May's top-performing ETF list. Cooling oil prices and strong earnings boosted risk appetite across Wall Street. Sticky inflation and hawkish Fed signals failed to derail the tech-led rally. Wall Street had a spectacular May, with the S&P 500 gaining about 4.9%, the Dow Jones adding about 2.1% and the Nasdaq-100 surging about 10% over the past month (as of May 28, 2026) on U.S.-Iran truce hopes (read: 5 ETF Areas Trading at a 52-Week High).

Oil Plunges in May Oil dropped in the month as the United States and Iran tentatively agreed to extend the ceasefire by 60 days, with Brent set for the biggest monthly drop since 2020 on optimism that flows through the Strait of Hormuz may resume, per Bloomberg, as quoted on Yahoo Finance.

Upbeat Earnings Season The month was full of earnings releases. The Q1 earnings season has come to an end for nine of the 16 Zacks sectors, with results from 462 S&P 500, or 92.4% of the index’s membership, already out.

Total Q1 earnings for the 462 S&P 500 companies that reported through May 20, 2026 results are up +21.1% from the same period last year on +10.4% higher revenues, with 79.9% beating EPS estimates and 78.6% beating revenue estimates. This is a better showing from these companies relative to other recent periods.

Tech & Energy Sectors Flex Muscle The Tech sector has been enjoying positive estimate revisions for more than a year now, so the sector’s positive revisions trend is basically more of the same. The Energy sector’s improved earnings outlook is a direct result of the Iran war, as is the upgraded earnings outlook for parts of the Basic Materials sector, particularly the Chemicals industry.

Inflation Heats Up The Federal Reserve’s preferred inflation gauge surged to a three-year high in April. The Personal Consumption Expenditures Index rose 3.8% in April as the conflict in the Middle East pushed oil prices higher.

That was in line with expectations and up from 3.5% in March. Excluding volatile food and energy prices, the so-called “core” PCE index was up 3.3%, also matching expectations and up a tenth from 3.2% in March, per a Yahoo Finance article. Still, that’s the highest core reading in two and a half years.

New York Fed President and FOMC Vice Chair John Williams said Thursday that inflation is likely to remain elevated in the coming months, with headline inflation potentially nearing 4% and core inflation staying above 3%.

While Williams expects headline inflation to peak within the next few months, he maintained that the current monetary policy is “in a good place” to address risks stemming from the conflict with Iran.

Goldman Sachs COO John Waldron echoed those concerns, calling inflation the biggest risk facing markets, as quoted on the same Yahoo Finance article.

No Fed Rate Cut in 2026?Most policymakers continue to support holding interest rates steady for now, though a growing number are unwilling to rule out additional rate hikes if inflation remains high.

Fed Governor Lisa Cook said that she is “prepared to raise rates” if inflation fails to moderate in a “timely manner,” as quoted on the same Yahoo Finance article.

U.S. Q1 GDP Growth Revised Lower Amid Slow Consumer Spending The U.S. economy grew at an annualized rate of 1.6% in the first quarter of 2026, lower than the initial estimate of 2.0%, reflecting weaker consumer spending and softer business investment.

ETFs in Focus Against this backdrop, below we highlight a few winning leveraged ETFs of the month of May.

T-REX 2X Long RDW Daily Target ETF (RDWU - Free Report) – Up 515.3%

The T-REX 2X Long RDW Daily Target ETF seeks daily investment results, before fees and expenses, of 200% of the daily performance of the Redwire Corporation. The expense ratio of the fund is 1.50%.

Redwire Corp. (RDW - Free Report) shares gained about 201% over the past month, thanks to strong investor optimism surrounding the space and defense technology sector, growing demand for satellite infrastructure, and continued momentum in government and commercial space programs.

Tradr 2X Long ALAB Daily ETF (LABX - Free Report) – Up 190.0%

The Tradr 2X Long ALAB Daily ETF seeks daily investment results, before fees and expenses, that correspond to two times the daily performance of the common shares of Astera Labs Inc. The expense ratio of the fund is 1.50%.

ALAB stock rose on AI infrastructure demand and continued optimism for high-speed connectivity and semiconductor-related technologies.

Defiance Daily Target 2x Long KEEL ETF (KEEX - Free Report) – Up 286.7%

The Defiance Daily Target 2X Long KEEL ETF seeks daily investment results, before fees and expenses, of two times the daily percentage change in the share price of Keel Infrastructure Corp. The expense ratio of the fund is 1.31%.

Keel Infrastructure stock rose on growing optimism around its shift toward AI and high-performance computing (HPC) infrastructure, and expectations for future data-center leasing deals. Investors have also responded positively to the company’s expanding AI-focused power infrastructure pipeline and improving liquidity position.

Direxion Daily MU Bull 2X ETF (MUU - Free Report) – Up 188.7%

The Direxion Daily MU Bull 2X ETF seeks daily investment results, before fees and expenses, of 200% of the performance of the common ETF of Micron Technology, Inc. The expense ratio of the fund is 1.01%.

In a historic milestone on May 26, 2026, Micron Technology’s (MU) market capitalization crossed the $1 trillion threshold, driven by an extraordinary 19.3% single-day stock rally that lifted shares to a close of $895.88. This dramatic rally places the memory-chip giant into an elite tier of a few tech titans (read: Tech ETFs to Buy as Micron Technology Joins the $1 Trillion Club).

Defiance Daily Target 2X Long RKLB ETF (RKLX - Free Report) – Up 217.3%

The Defiance Daily Target 2X Long RKLB ETF seeks daily leveraged investment results of two times the daily percentage change in the share price of Rocket Lab USA, Inc. The expense ratio of the fund is 1.31%.

RKLB shares soared due to strong investor enthusiasm around the booming space sector, upbeat earnings, and growing optimism tied to a potential SpaceX IPO.

June 2, 2026 Monday's MarketsS&P 500
7,600 (+0.26%)Nasdaq
27,087 (+0.42%)Dow
51,079 (+0.09%)Bitcoin
$71,444 (-2.70%)

Source: Image created by Jester AI.

1. Alphabet Launches Historic Stock Sale Alphabet (GOOG +1.19%) confirmed it will sell $80 billion in stock, including a $10 billion sum sold to Berkshire Hathaway (BRKB +0.23%), as it seeks more capital to fund AI compute infrastructure to meet "unprecedented customer demand." Berkshire stock was little changed ahead of the opening bell, while Alphabet fell around 2.5%.

"Be it power, land, supply chain constraints, how do you ramp up to meet this extraordinary demand for this moment?": CEO Sundar Pichai recently commented compute capacity was what keeps Alphabet execs up at night, with scaling up investments seen as a key way to support the growth opportunity ahead. Berkshire's current Alphabet holding worth around $20 billion: The team at Berkshire have been building a stake in the company since Q3 last year. The additional $10 billion is likely to take it to the third largest portfolio holding, behind Apple (AAPL +1.36%) and American Express (AXP +1.78%). 2. Results Roundup: CRDO Disappoints as HPE Wins Big As highlighted in yesterday's Breakfast News, Ulta Beauty (ULTA +1.20%) and Palo Alto (PANW +6.11%) release earnings after the closing bell today. Ulta has previously been recommended by Team Hidden Gems, while both are recommended by Team Rule Breakers.

Another Team RB recommendation: Hewlett Packard Enterprise (HPE +2.88%) rocketed over 25% in pre-market trading thanks to quarterly results beating expectations due to Cloud and AI revenue increasing, with management now expecting 29%-33% revenue growth for the full year. Revenue jumps 157% but slowing growth forecast: Credo Technology (CRDO +11.38%) initially fell over 12% in early trade, before recovering most of those losses, despite posting record revenue and profitability as investors noted a slowing pace of growth for the coming quarter and a concern over gross profit margin compression. 3. Space Stocks Jitter Ahead of SpaceX IPO Space stocks including Rocket Lab (RKLB +9.42%) and Redwire (RDW +14.90%) fell 14.7% and 15.83% yesterday respectively, as the sector takes a pause from a record-breaking rally ahead of the SpaceX IPO.

Higher volatility prompts caution: General excitement has been a factor in driving related stocks higher, with Redwire up over 130% in the past month. The short-term move suggests some investors are now looking to reduce exposure ahead of the SpaceX IPO, given the potential for further volatility. "Rocket Lab needs to be viewed as a long-term growth story": Fool contributing analyst Lou Whiteman said last month that although the latest company results don't justify such a high valuation, "there is nothing in the report to suggest Rocket Lab isn't on its way toward growing into the company the market expects in the years to come." The stock is beating the S&P 500 by 204% since the Stock Advisor recommendation by Team HG in July 2025. 4. Your Take Next week's SpaceX IPO is the investment topic du jour, and we continue to bring you takes from Fools on both Team Hidden Gems and Team Rule Breakers.

Lou Whiteman on Team HG yesterday noted, "I still expect a successful IPO ... SpaceX's path to the public markets is as complicated as its plan to reach Mars. It's not set up to provide the clarity market watchers love to see. Don't take that uncertainty as a sign the IPO is in trouble."

Meanwhile, Team RB's Jim Mueller recently said, "IPOs are designed to get people excited and eager to buy. But the harsh reality is that the vast majority of them end up losing money for investors over the following three to five years. I'd rather remember that and go with the odds. Especially for a company that burns cash and has some really crazy assumptions built into its valuation."

On a scale of 1-10, how excited are you about the upcoming SpaceX IPO? (1 = not interested at all, 10 = can't wait to buy). What excites you or what concerns you about SpaceX as an investment?

Debate with friends and family, or become a member to hear what your fellow Fools are saying!

This image and article was created using Large Language Models (LLMs) based on The Motley Fool's insights and investing approach. It has been reviewed by our AI quality control systems. Since LLMs cannot (currently) own stocks, it has no positions in any of the stocks mentioned. American Express is an advertising partner of Motley Fool Money. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Alphabet, American Express, Apple, Berkshire Hathaway, Hewlett Packard Enterprise, Redwire, Rocket Lab, and Ulta Beauty. The Motley Fool recommends Palo Alto Networks. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.

Key Takeaways RDW jumped 235.2% in six months, beating the aerospace-defense industry and aerospace sector.Redwire faces profit pressure from higher operating expenses and big investments in growth initiatives.RDW delivered its MANUS lunar robotic arm prototype in May 2026 as space and defense demand grows. Redwire Corporation (RDW - Free Report) stock has gained 235.2% in the past six months, outperforming both the Zacks Aerospace-Defense industry’s decline of 5.3% and the broader Zacks Aerospace sector’s gain of 0.8%. It also came below the S&P 500’s return of 10.9% in the same time frame.

Image Source: Zacks Investment Research

Other industry players, such as Lockheed Martin (LMT - Free Report) and The Boeing Company (BA - Free Report) , have also delivered a similar stellar performance in the past year. Shares of LMT and BA have risen 14.5% and 7.9%, respectively, in the said period.

RDW’s recent gains may draw investor attention. However, before investing, it is important to evaluate whether the company’s fundamentals are strong enough to support sustained long-term growth or if the recent rally may be temporary. A closer look at RDW’s growth stability can help investors make a more informed decision.

Headwinds for RDWRedwire continues to face profitability challenges as higher operating expenses and ongoing investments in growth initiatives put pressure on near-term earnings. While these investments are important for expanding the company's capabilities and market presence, they may limit profitability in the short run.

The company also operates in a highly competitive and capital-intensive industry, where rising development and manufacturing costs can affect margins and cash flow. Redwire’s efforts to grow its space infrastructure and mission-related businesses require substantial investment, which may continue to weigh on financial performance over the near term.

In addition, supply-chain disruptions and labor shortages across the aerospace and space industries remain potential challenges. These issues could result in production delays and increased operating costs for Redwire. Larger aerospace and defense companies such as Lockheed Martin and Boeing also face similar supply-chain and workforce pressures, highlighting broader industry-wide challenges. Redwire is further exposed to risks related to government contract funding, changing budget priorities and possible delays in mission execution, which could impact its growth and profitability.

Tailwinds for RDWRedwire is benefiting from increasing demand across the space and defense sectors, driven by higher investments in lunar exploration, space infrastructure and advanced military technologies. Continued support from government organizations, such as NASA, the European Space Agency and the U.S. Army, is creating new growth opportunities for the company.

In May 2026, Redwire reached an important milestone in its space business with the successful development, testing and delivery of its MANUS lunar robotic arm prototype. The system is designed to assist with payload handling and unloading during future lunar missions. The successful tests demonstrated the arm’s strong performance and reliability, reinforcing Redwire’s position in lunar exploration technology.

With continued momentum in both its space and defense businesses, Redwire is well-placed to capitalize on growing opportunities in these expanding markets.

Estimates for RDW’s Sales and EarningsThe Zacks Consensus Estimate for RDW’s 2026 sales implies year-over-year growth of 41%. The consensus estimate for its 2026 earnings indicates a year-over-year increase of 57.3%.

Image Source: Zacks Investment Research

The downward revision in its 2026 and 2027 earnings over the past 60 days suggests investors’ decreasing confidence in this stock’s earnings generation capabilities.

Image Source: Zacks Investment Research

RDW’s ValuationIn terms of valuation, RDW’s forward 12-month price-to-sales (P/S) is 7.71X, a premium to the industry average of 2.51X. This suggests that investors will be paying a higher price than the company's expected earnings growth compared with its industry average.

Image Source: Zacks Investment Research

Lockheed Martin and Boeing are trading at a discount in comparison with RDW. LMT’s forward 12-month P/S is 1.47X, while BA’s forward 12-month P/S is 1.67X.

What Should an Investor Do Now?Redwire is benefiting from strong revenue growth and growing participation in both commercial and government-supported space programs. However, higher operating expenses and execution-related challenges continue to pose risks to its growth outlook. The stock’s valuation also remains higher than the industry average, which may limit its near-term upside potential.

Furthermore, analysts have lowered their earnings estimates for 2026 and 2027 over the past two months, indicating a more cautious outlook for the company’s future profitability. Given these challenges, it is advisable to avoid the stock at present.

RDW currently carries a Zacks Rank #4 (Sell).

You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJI) is surging to record highs, up over 800 points and heading for its largest single-day percentage gain since April as investors rotate out of tech and into old economy stocks. Broadcom's (AVGO) post-earnings selloff sparked the chip sector woes, with the Nasdaq Composite (IXIC) firmly lower in response. Meanwhile, the S&P 500 Index (SPX) is trading flat after yesterday snapping a nine-day win streak. 

Continue reading for more on today's market, including:

Software stock plummets despite earnings beat.  UnitedHealth Group stock upgraded ahead of earnings.  Plus, options traders target VEEV; RDW awarded agricultural space contract; and WOOF slides after mixed results. 

Veeva Systems Inc (NYSE:VEEV) is seeing unusual options activity today. Options traders are targeting the cloud computing name at six times the intraday average volume after strong first-quarter earnings and revenue results, with 4,978 calls and 2,377 puts exchanged so far. The June 220 and 180 calls are the most popular. VEEV has struggled in 2026, sinking 20% so far, last seen down 0.2% at $178.25 despite its upbeat report.

One of the top performers on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE), Redwire Corp (NYSE:RDW) was last seen up 19.3% at $22.18, after the company was awarded a contract from biotech name Astrobiome Space to grow strawberries and test Astrobiome Space's proprietary soil enhancement product on board the International Space Station (ISS). Rebounding from a four-day losing streak that came after a 52-week high, the shares are up 181.8% year to date. 

Petco Health and Wellness Company Inc (NASDAQ:WOOF) is down 16.9% to trade at $2.53, pulling back to familiar support at the $2.50 level after mixed first-quarter results. WOOF is now down 9.8% since the start of the year. 

The announcement sent Redwire shares nearly 16% higher as investors welcomed a new commercial space agriculture milestone.

The gain followed a sharp pullback earlier this week, when Redwire shares fell 15% after Jefferies downgraded the stock to Hold from Buy on valuation concerns, despite raising its price forecast to $24.

Short Squeeze Likely Added FuelThursday’s move may have been amplified by short covering. Approximately 17.96% of Redwire’s public float was sold short, creating conditions for a potential short squeeze as bullish traders piled into the stock following the contract announcement.

First Strawberries To Be Grown In SpaceThe mission will test Astrobiome Space’s microbial biostimulant while growing wild strawberries in orbit, marking the first cultivation of the fruit in space. Astrobiome Space expects the product to improve crop resilience and nutrient density.

Redwire said its Greenhouse platform is designed to support long-duration space missions and advance commercial space agriculture. Astrobiome Space will begin Earth-based testing this month ahead of the ISS flight.

“This contract with Astrobiome Space marks an exciting step forward in advancing critical technology for sustainable life-support systems beyond Earth,” said Marc Dielissen, Executive Vice-President of Redwire Europe.

Analyst Consensus & Recent Actions: The stock carries a Buy rating with an average price forecast of $16.80. Recent analyst moves include:

Jefferies: Downgraded to Hold (Raises forecast to $24.00) (June 1) Canaccord Genuity: Buy (Raises forecast to $14.00) (May 11) Truist Securities: Upgraded to Buy (Raises forecast to $15.00) (March 9) Redwire Technical AnalysisRDW stock remains well above its key trend lines.

The stock trades about 32% above its 20-day simple moving average of $16.25. It also trades roughly 126% above its 200-day simple moving average of $9.47.

That shows how strong the longer-term rally has been. The bullish setup also remains intact. The 20-day SMA is above the 50-day SMA. A golden cross in April also keeps the broader trend pointed higher.

Momentum still looks positive. The MACD is above its signal line. The histogram is also positive. That suggests buyers still have control after the recent pullback.

Still, the stock looks extended. When a stock trades this far above its moving averages, any loss of buying pressure can lead to a sharp pullback.

Key Resistance: $26.64. This is the 52-week high from May. Key Support: $16.25. This is the 20-day SMA and the nearest major trend support. RDW Stock Price Activity: Redwire shares were up 15.84% at $21.57 at the time of publication on Thursday, according to Benzinga Pro data.

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Redwire Corp (NYSE:RDW) shares are trading lower on Tuesday after the company announced a new at-the-market equity offering.

Redwire stock is feeling bearish pressure. Why is RDW stock falling? Redwire launched an at-the-market equity offering on Tuesday, allowing the company to sell up to $500 million in common stock over time. The offering is structured as a continuous ATM, meaning shares can be sold incrementally rather than in a single raise, giving Redwire flexibility on timing and size.

Redwire plans to use the net proceeds for general corporate purposes including working capital, debt repayment or refinancing, strategic acquisitions or investments and R&D to accelerate product development.

Redwire had total liquidity of $175.2 million as of March 31, including $144.5 million in cash and cash equivalents. The company also announced an equity distribution agreement to offer and sell up to $350 million of common stock from time to time when it reported earnings last month.

Technicals Show Mixed Signals Despite Bullish TrendRedwire is currently positioned above its 50-day, 100-day, and 200-day simple moving averages, indicating a strong bullish trend. The 20-day SMA is slightly below the current price, suggesting a potential for upward momentum if the stock can maintain this positioning.

The RSI is at 59.14, which is in neutral territory, indicating that the stock is neither overbought nor oversold at this time. This level suggests that there is still room for upward movement before reaching overbought conditions.

MACD is currently below its signal line, indicating bearish pressure in the short term. Traders should be cautious as this could signal a potential pullback or consolidation phase before any further upward movement.

Key support is at 14.50 and resistance is at 17.50, which traders should monitor closely. A break below support could signal a trend reversal, while a move above resistance may confirm continued bullish momentum.

The golden cross in May, when the 50-day SMA crossed above the 200-day SMA, reinforces the bullish trend for Redwire. This crossover is a strong signal for traders looking for longer-term buying opportunities.

Over the past 12 months, Redwire has gained 5.03%, reflecting a positive longer-term trend despite recent volatility. This performance indicates that the stock has been able to maintain upward momentum over a significant period, which could attract more investors looking for stability.

Redwire Shares RetreatRDW Price Action: Redwire shares were down 8.67% at $16.96 at the time of publication on Tuesday, according to Benzinga Pro.

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Stocks are lower across the board, reversing this morning's gains as the chip rally fizzles. The Nasdaq Composite Index (IXIC) is down a whopping 504 points, while the S&P 500 Index (SPX) and Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJI) sit firmly in the red as well. Meanwhile, West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude is down 4.5%, after U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright said tanker traffic through the Strait of Hormuz is "rising very meaningfully," as President Trump continues negotiations with Iran. 

Continue reading for more on today's market, including:

Biopharma stock soars on $10.6 billion buyout.  Vail Resorts stock hit with bear notes after earnings miss.  Plus, options bulls eye CROX; ODC hits record highs; and RDW slides on equity offering. 

Call traders are targeting Crocs Inc (NASDAQ:CROX) today, after an upgrade from Baird to "outperform" from "neutral," with a price-target hike to $150 from $115. CROX has seen nine times its intraday average in call volume, with the most activity at the June 140 call, where new positions are being sold-to-open. The equity was last seen up 6% at $127.92, earlier tapping its highest mark since October 2024.

Pacing the top of the New York Stock Exchange's (NYSE) this afternoon is Oil-Dri Corporation of America (NYSE:ODC), up 12.9% to trade at record highs near $95, after the company's record fiscal third-quarter revenue and earnings growth. Year to date, the equity is up 93.2%. 

Aerospace and defense stock Redwire Corp (NYSE:RDW) is down 11.4% at $16.44, after the company entered into an equity distribution agreement allowing it to sell up to $500 million in common stock offerings. Though sliding further from its late-May 52-week peak, the shares are still up 106% year to date. 

Issued on behalf of Starfighters Space, Inc.

For years the most exciting companies in space stayed stubbornly private. That era is ending in a single week — and the way capital reaches the sector may never look the same.

Baystreet.ca News Commentary 

CAPE CANAVERAL, /PRNewswire/ -- There are two ways a company can find its way into the portfolios of the world's largest investors. The first is the one everyone talks about: a story so compelling that analysts champion it, fund managers buy it, and momentum builds. The second is quieter, more mechanical, and in many ways more powerful — a company simply grows large enough to cross an objective threshold, and the machinery of global index investing pulls it in automatically. This week, the commercial space sector is experiencing both at once, and the combination is turning what was once a niche, venture-funded frontier into a mainstream, publicly investable asset class.

The mechanical signal came when Starfighters Space, Inc. (NYSE: FJET) announced it had been added to the broad-market Russell 3000® Index, effective when U.S. markets open on June 29, 2026, as part of the first 2026 Russell reconstitution. The narrative signal — louder, and arriving the very same week — is the long-awaited public debut of SpaceX, the company that more than any other came to define the modern space age while remaining tantalizingly out of public reach. Taken together, they mark something larger than any single stock: the space economy is being wired directly into the plumbing of public markets.

Why Index Inclusion Is More Than a Trophy

Most catalysts that move a young stock depend on persuasion. Index inclusion does not. Membership in the Russell indexes is determined primarily through objective market-capitalization rankings and style attributes — not a committee weighing a company's prospects. A company is either large enough on the measurement date, April 30 this year, or it is not. Clearing that screen has compounding consequences: inclusion in the Russell 3000® brings automatic membership in either the large-cap Russell 1000® or the small-cap Russell 2000®, plus the relevant style indexes, and with it the attention of the index funds and benchmarked managers that track them.

The scale of that gravitational field is hard to overstate. According to data as of mid-2025, roughly $12.2 trillion in assets are benchmarked against the Russell U.S. indexes. And this year's reconstitution was unusually expansive: FTSE Russell reported the total market capitalization of the Russell 3000® rose about 29%, from $58.4 trillion to $75.6 trillion, as of the April 30 rank day. When the index expands and is recut, room opens at the threshold for companies that have grown into the size band — and capital markets have been notably receptive to space and defense names. For Starfighters, a company that completed its IPO only in December 2025, arriving on one of the world's most-followed benchmarks inside its first seven months as a public company is an unusually fast trip from the listing bell to the index card.

CONTINUED … Learn more about Starfighters Space, Inc. at: https://usanewsgroup.com/fjet-profile/

The Capstone: SpaceX Comes to Market

If Russell inclusion is the on-ramp, the SpaceX IPO is the eighteen-wheeler about to merge onto the highway. After filing its public S-1 prospectus in May 2026 and applying to list on Nasdaq under the symbol SPCX, the company widely regarded as the most important private space enterprise in history is, as reported, on the cusp of its market debut later this week, with pricing expected imminently. The figures attached to it are staggering: reporting has pointed to a share price around $135 and a valuation measured in the trillions of dollars, with a raise that, if achieved at the high end, would rank among the largest initial public offerings ever completed. (These figures are as reported and remain subject to final pricing.)

The importance for the sector is not really about one stock, however large. It is about what a successful mega-listing does to the category. It gives public investors a direct, liquid way to own the orbital economy's flagship name; it forces a market-clearing price discovery on space assets that until now traded only in private rounds; and it draws a wave of institutional attention toward every adjacent company that offers exposure to the same theme. A rising tide of capital looking for space exposure does not stop at a single ticker — it spreads across the names that make up the rest of the ecosystem.

The Ecosystem Riding the Wave

To understand why this is a sector story and not a single-company one, it helps to look at the range of public companies now competing for that institutional attention. Each offers a different lens on where capital is flowing across the modern space landscape.

Rocket Lab Corporation (NASDAQ: RKLB) has become the closest thing the public markets have to a SpaceX analogue, and its run reflects it: the stock reached fresh all-time highs around the mid-$140s in 2026, and it has expanded aggressively, including a spacecraft-robotics acquisition that pushes it further toward end-to-end mission capability and even Mars ambitions. Rocket Lab shows how hungry public investors are for a scaled, vertically integrated launch-and-space-systems story they can actually buy.

Intuitive Machines, Inc. (NASDAQ: LUNR) represents the lunar-economy thesis, building landers and services aimed at the renewed global push toward the Moon. As one of the names most associated with commercial lunar delivery, it illustrates how the investable space sector now reaches well beyond Earth orbit — and how richly the market is willing to value companies positioned for NASA-era Moon programs.

Redwire Corporation (NYSE: RDW) anchors the in-space infrastructure and manufacturing layer, supplying components, structures, and capabilities used across satellites and missions. Its strong 2026 performance underscores investor appetite for the "picks-and-shovels" providers that supply the broader build-out rather than any single launch.

Velo3D, Inc. (NASDAQ: VELO) rounds out the group from the supply-chain side, providing metal additive-manufacturing systems used to build mission-critical components for space, aviation, and defense programs. After reporting first-quarter 2026 revenue up 48% year-over-year and reaching a positive gross-margin inflection, Velo3D illustrates how the orbital build-out lifts not just launch and satellite names but the specialized manufacturers that supply the hardware behind them. These companies are referenced to illustrate the breadth of the sector, not to imply any partnership, endorsement, affiliation, or comparable financial performance; they span vastly different sizes and stages.

Where Starfighters Fits

Within that landscape, Starfighters Space occupies a genuinely differentiated niche. Rather than building rockets or satellites, the company operates what it describes as the world's only flight-ready MACH 2+ supersonic aircraft fleet, flying from NASA's Kennedy Space Center. The concept behind air-launch is elegant: releasing a vehicle from an aircraft already moving fast and flying high means the launch system inherits altitude and velocity it would otherwise have to generate itself, and because the platform is an aircraft rather than a fixed pad, it carries the promise of runway-based responsiveness and reusable hardware. "We believe our inclusion in the Russell 3000® Index represents an important milestone in Starfighters Space's evolution as a publicly traded space company," said CEO Tim Franta, framing the event as a reflection of growing awareness of the company's differentiated platform.

It is worth being clear-eyed: Starfighters is an early-stage, small-cap company whose shares have been volatile, and index inclusion changes visibility, not fundamentals. The real test ahead is commercial execution, not index mechanics. But the timing places the company inside one of the most powerful currents in the market right now — a sector being institutionalized in real time.

A Week That Resets the Map

Step back and the picture is striking. In a single week, the broadest benchmark in U.S. equities is formally ingesting space companies, and the sector's defining private giant is stepping onto the public stage. For a decade, owning the frontier of space meant access to private rounds most investors could never reach. That wall is coming down. The question for the rest of the year is no longer whether the space economy is investable — it is which companies, across which layers of the ecosystem, capture the attention now flooding in. The on-ramp is open, and the traffic is just beginning to build.

CONTINUED … Learn more about Starfighters Space, Inc. at: https://usanewsgroup.com/fjet-profile/

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SOURCES:

[1] Starfighters Space, Inc. — "Starfighters Space (NYSE: FJET) Added to Membership of Russell 3000® Index" (Business Wire, June 3, 2026; index inclusion effective June 29, CEO Tim Franta quote, company profile): https://finance.yahoo.com/markets/stocks/articles/starfighters-space-nyse-fjet-added-100000658.html

[2] FTSE Russell / Investing.com — Russell U.S. indexes 2026 reconstitution detail ($12.2T benchmarked; Russell 3000 total market cap up 29% to $75.6T; rank day April 30): https://www.investing.com/news/company-news/starfighters-space-added-to-russell-3000-index-effective-june-29-93CH-4723661

[3] Capital.com — SpaceX IPO overview (public S-1 May 20, 2026; Nasdaq application as SPCX; reported ~$135/share, pricing June 11, debut June 12; Starlink ~58% of revenue; figures as reported and subject to final pricing): https://capital.com/en-int/learn/ipo/spacex-ipo

[4] Bloomberg — "How SpaceX's Dream of a Record-Breaking IPO Stacks Up" (raise reported up to ~$75B; valuation in the trillions; would rank among largest IPOs in history): https://www.bloomberg.com/graphics/2026-spacex-ipo-stock-market-nasdaq-listings/

[5] Stocktwits — space-sector trading coverage around the SpaceX listing (peer names RKLB, LUNR, RDW, VELO and sector sentiment): https://stocktwits.com/news-articles/markets/equity/rklb-lunr-rdw-rise-musk-ai-satellite-vision/cZ0Ud6JR7bl

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This communication is being distributed by Baystreet.ca on behalf of Market IQ Media Group, Inc. ("MIQ"), as a digital media distribution and not as a paid advertisement in the traditional sense. MIQ has been paid a fee for Starfighters Space, Inc. advertising and digital media by Creative Direct Marketing Group ("CDMG"). USA News Group distributes this communication on behalf of MIQ regardless of the brand under which it appears. MIQ does not own any shares of Starfighters Space, Inc. and reserves the right to buy and sell shares of Starfighters Space, Inc. at any time without any further notice. There may be 3rd parties who may have shares of Starfighters Space, Inc. and may liquidate their shares which could have a negative effect on the price of the stock. All material disseminated by MIQ on behalf of Starfighters Space, Inc. has been reviewed and approved by CDMG; this is a digital media distribution.

While all information is believed to be reliable, it is not guaranteed by us to be accurate. Individuals should assume that all information contained in our publication is not trustworthy unless verified by their own independent research. Comparisons to other companies referenced in this publication are for contextual and illustrative purposes only and do not imply any partnership, endorsement, affiliation, or comparable financial performance. References to third-party companies, indexes, and the SpaceX initial public offering are for context only; MIQ has no relationship with and is not compensated by any of those parties. Forward-looking statements regarding index inclusion, the SpaceX offering, market growth, and company plans are subject to risks and uncertainties, and actual results may differ materially. Also, because events and circumstances frequently do not occur as expected, there will likely be differences between any predictions and actual results. Always consult a licensed investment professional before making any investment decision. Be extremely careful, investing in securities carries a high degree of risk; you may likely lose some or all of the investment.

Redwire (RDW +14.90%) is turning into a broader aerospace and defense technology story, with exposure to drones, autonomous systems, space infrastructure, and secure communications. The upside is compelling, but the key question is whether management can turn backlog and defense expansion into sustainable earnings.

*Stock prices used were the market prices of June 2, 2026. The video was published on June 10, 2026.

Rick Orford has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. Rick Orford is an affiliate of The Motley Fool and may be compensated for promoting its services. If you choose to subscribe through their link, they will earn some extra money that supports their channel. Their opinions remain their own and are unaffected by The Motley Fool.