Stifel raises Rocket Lab stock target to $29, maintains buy rating

Published 09/05/2025, 11:36
Stifel raises Rocket Lab stock target to $29, maintains buy rating

On Friday, Stifel analysts increased their price target on Rocket Lab USA (NASDAQ:RKLB) stock from $27.00 to $29.00, while reiterating a Buy rating. The firm’s analyst, Erik Rasmussen, highlighted Rocket Lab’s solid performance in the recent quarter, with revenue hitting the higher end of the company’s guidance and a smaller-than-expected adjusted EBITDA loss. The company, currently valued at $10.48 billion, has demonstrated remarkable momentum with a 442% return over the past year, according to InvestingPro data.

Rocket Lab’s guidance for the second quarter indicates a return to growth, which is expected to lead into a stronger second half of the year. According to Rasmussen, the company’s launch services are anticipated to benefit from higher average selling prices (ASPs) and increased launch cadence. Moreover, the space systems segment is set to gain from the next phase of the Space Development Agency (SDA) program, where revenue recognition has accelerated. This aligns with the company’s impressive 65% year-over-year revenue growth and strong liquidity position, with a current ratio of 2.08.Want deeper insights? InvestingPro subscribers have access to 12 additional exclusive tips and comprehensive financial metrics for Rocket Lab.

The analyst also noted that Rocket Lab’s Neutron project is on track for a launch in the second half of the year. The Neutron vehicle’s inclusion as a trusted vehicle for the National Security Space Launch (NSSL) program is seen as a strong endorsement of its potential, which could lead to further significant task orders in the future.

Additionally, Rasmussen mentioned Rocket Lab’s pending acquisition of Mynaric (ETR:M0YNn), a company specializing in laser communication technologies. This acquisition positions Rocket Lab favorably, as it will enable them to offer a comprehensive suite of services including launch capabilities, spacecraft and component manufacturing, and the potential to operate their own satellite constellation.

In other recent news, Rocket Lab USA, Inc. reported its financial results for the first quarter of 2025. The company achieved a revenue of $122.6 million, marking a 32.1% increase from the previous year and surpassing expectations. However, Rocket Lab’s earnings per share (EPS) came in at a loss of $0.12, missing the forecasted loss of $0.10. The company’s Launch Services and Space Systems segments were key contributors to the revenue growth, generating $35.6 million and $87 million, respectively. Despite the revenue increase, Rocket Lab is facing challenges in balancing growth and profitability, as reflected in the EPS miss.

In addition to financial results, Rocket Lab announced its intention to acquire Monaric, a German company specializing in laser-based satellite communications. This acquisition is expected to enhance Rocket Lab’s spacecraft supply chain and expand its presence in Europe. The company also provided guidance for Q2 2025, projecting revenue between $130 million and $140 million. Analyst firm Deutsche Bank (ETR:DBKGn) inquired about the strategic rationale behind the Monaric acquisition, and Rocket Lab emphasized the importance of production capabilities.

Furthermore, Rocket Lab has been selected to participate in the U.S. Department of Defense’s National Security Space Launch (NSSL) program, a significant milestone for the company’s Neutron launch vehicle. The company is also targeting a launch cadence of six launches per quarter, reflecting its strategic focus on expanding market presence and operational efficiency.

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