Global X Defense Tech ETF

SHLD

Market cap $4.28B

The Global X Defense Tech ETF offers the best balance of European and US defense exposure, with strong performance and a focus on counter-drone solutions. Rising threat levels in Europe, especially from drone incursions, highlight the urgent need for advanced and cost-efficient counter-drone technologies. SHLD stands out for its substantial exposure to both European defense firms and pure-play counter-drone companies, outperforming US-focused ETFs like ITA and XAR.

The S&P 500 has served as an excellent benchmark for the state of U.S.

The S&P 500 has served as an excellent benchmark for the state of U.S.

Defense ETFs surge ahead of Q3 earnings, fueled by record military spending and global demand for advanced defense tech.

In 2025, the best-performing ETF themes include gold and silver mining (SLVP, RING), bitcoin miners (WGMI), uranium (URA) and defense (EUAD, SHLD).

Global X Defense Tech ETF and NEOS Gold High Income ETF offer retirees a blend of defensiveness, growth, and steady income. SHLD focuses on defense technology, has outperformed the S&P 500, and provides international exposure, though its yield is under 1%. IAUI delivers gold exposure with a 12.56% yield, competitive expense ratio, and monthly distributions, making it attractive for income-focused investors.

Global X Defense Tech ETF (SHLD) is upgraded to Strong Buy, driven by record financial growth and robust order backlogs in defense technologies. SHLD benefits from surging global defense spending, geopolitical tensions, and increased demand for advanced tech, like AI, drones, and cybersecurity. Top holdings, such as PLTR, RNMBF, RTX, and BAESF, are delivering exceptional revenue growth, backlog expansion, and strong share price performance.

Defense ETFs are set to rally as the U.S.-UK Technology Prosperity Deal fuels AI-driven defense growth with $350B investment.

Global X Defense Tech ETF (SHLD) is rated a strong buy, offering global exposure to leading defense technology companies. SHLD has outperformed peers with a 77% YTD gain, robust diversification, and top holdings like PLTR, RNMBF, RTX, and BAESY. Rising geopolitical tensions and record global defense spending drive growth, with SHLD positioned to benefit from AI, cyber, and drone advancements.

Defense ETFs surged as NATO airspace breaches by Russian drones and a major spending pledge fueled investor demand.