Equities Weekly: Europe Defence and Aerospace Poised for Growth
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Chief Investment Office9 Apr 2025
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Europe equities: Defence and aerospace – structural growth and policy shifts. Despite growing concerns about the potential economic damage, Trump is pushing ahead with reciprocal tariffs policies. In light of this, we turn our focus to Europe, given its capacity to implement fiscal stimulus which can help soften the impact of tariffs. The defence and aerospace industry, in particular, is well-positioned to benefit as it stands out as a key strategic focus for Europe. On a YTD basis, Europe defence and aerospace, has outperformed the STOXX 600 index by 21 %pts and this moment is likely to persist.

The European Union (EU) faces a growing need for structurally higher defence spending, driven by geopolitical tensions and evolving security threats. With increasing concerns over regional stability, European nations are reassessing their military budgets to enhance defence capabilities and reduce reliance on external allies.

A key development is the potential increase in NATO’s defence spending target for EU countries. Currently set at c.2% of GDP, discussions are emerging about raising it to 3%. If implemented, this would translate to a significant 50% increase in defence budgets across the Eurozone as compared to 2024 levels. Such an uplift would accelerate investments in advanced weaponry, cybersecurity, space defence, and modernisation of military infrastructure. Hence, companies operating in the industry could benefit from increased government contracts, expanded R&D funding, and growing demand for next-generation defence technologies.

Equity fund flows: US Equity Funds experienced significant outflows during the week ended 2 Apr, as investors reacted to the reciprocal tariffs announced by President Trump on ‘Liberation Day’. US Equity Funds recorded the second consecutive weeks of redemptions, amounting to over USD4.6bn in outflows. In contrast, Europe Equity Funds continued their positive momentum, extending their inflow streak to eight consecutive weeks. Europe Equity Funds saw USD1.3bn of inflows, driven by announcement of increased defence spending in the region.

Figure 1: Global defence spending by region


Source: SIPRI, DBS


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