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Defence ETFs and the Mainstreaming of the Sector

How have defence ETFs driven the mainstreaming of the defence and security sector among investors?

Defence ETFs and the Mainstreaming of the Sector: The defence and security sector has seen. Defence-finance analysis; 15-page sourced DFM PDF report.

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Original DFM publication · DFM Analysis report · 2025-10-01

The defence and security sector has seen a dramatic rise in prominence among investors in recent years. Heightened geopolitical tensions – notably Russia’s war in Ukraine, instability in the Middle East, and doubts over U.S. strategic commitments – have driven governments worldwide to sharply increase military spending.

World military expenditure reached a record \$2.72 trillion in 2024 (up 9.4% from 2023), with Europe alone boosting its budgets by 17% and the United States reaching nearly \$1 trillion (66% of NATO’s total). In this context, defence companies and their stock prices have rallied.

This analysis answers: How have defence ETFs driven the mainstreaming of the defence and security sector among investors? How have geopolitical tensions and record 2024 military expenditure of $2.72 trillion reshaped the investment landscape for defence companies? How does Europe's 17% budget increase and the U.S. approach to nearly $1 trillion influence defence equity flows? What are the outlook, risks and constraints for defence-sector investment as stock prices rally?

Key takeaways

  • In this context, defence companies and their stock prices have rallied.
  • How does Europe's 17% budget increase and the U.S.

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Original DFM analysis

Defence ETFs and the Mainstreaming of the Sector

Type DFM Analysis report
Published 2025-10-01
Access free_public

FAQ

What is Defence ETFs and the Mainstreaming of the Sector?

Heightened geopolitical tensions – notably Russia’s war in Ukraine, instability in the Middle East, and doubts over U.S.

Why does Defence ETFs and the Mainstreaming of the Sector matter for European defence?

World military expenditure reached a record \$2.72 trillion in 2024 (up 9.4% from 2023), with Europe alone boosting its budgets by 17% and the United States reaching nearly \$1 trillion (66% of NATO’s total).

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