Howmet Aerospace Slides to 340th in Trading Activity as Defense Revenue Surges 21% and Analysts Flag 19.2% Upside Potential

On August 29, 2025, Howmet Aerospace (HWM) fell 1.17% to $174.10, with a trading volume of $0.29 billion, down 28.96% from the previous day. The stock ranked 340th in trading activity among peers. Analysts highlight its exposure to the defense aerospace sector, where demand remains robust amid global geopolitical tensions.

Recent reports underscore Howmet’s performance in defense-driven markets. A Zacks analysis noted that the company’s defense aerospace revenue rose 21% year-over-year in Q2 2025, driven by sustained government contracts and elevated defense spending. Morgan Stanley included HWM in its list of top defense stocks, citing its strong earnings momentum and strategic positioning in high-margin aerospace segments. The firm assigned a 19.2% upside potential to HWM, reflecting confidence in its operational resilience.

Howmet’s Q2 results exceeded expectations, with adjusted earnings of $0.91 per share, up 36% year-over-year. The company attributed the growth to higher demand for titanium components and efficient cost management. Management expressed optimism about long-term margins, with Zacks analysts noting the firm’s ability to sustain EBITDA expansion. Institutional ownership remains strong at 90.46%, signaling continued institutional confidence.

Backtest data from Morgan Stanley indicates a 19.2% upside potential for HWM, aligning with its inclusion in the firm’s top defense stock picks. The analysis emphasizes Howmet’s exposure to secular growth themes, including defense modernization and aerospace innovation, as key drivers for future performance.