The market move
A fresh Buy call from BofA kept the state-run defense contractor's rally humming. In Istanbul on Thursday, the stock hit 367.5 liras at its session high, up 9.2% on the day, taking this year's gain to 58%. For comparison, Turkey's main stock index is up 8.4% over the same span.
Why BofA is bullish
"Aselsan deserves to trade at a premium to much of the European defense sector given its exposure to sovereign air defense, defense electronics and one of the fastest growth profiles in our coverage," BofA analysts including David Holmes wrote in a report out Thursday. They pinned a 575 lira price target on the shares, which is 71% above where they closed on Wednesday.
Business and backlog
Aselsan focuses on radar, communications, and electronic defense systems, and it sits at the center of Turkey's "Steel Dome" integrated air-defense initiative. BofA said that role could back sustained double-digit real revenue growth and noted sales could exceed $10 billion by 2030. With a $34 billion market value, Aselsan is the country's most valuable listed company, a spot that used to be held by banks or family-run conglomerates.
When headlines spotlight single stocks, long-term habits still matter, so download the free Always Be Buying E-Book today
What this means for your portfolio
If defense stocks are on your radar, the mix here is clear: a large backlog, a pivotal national program, and a vote of confidence from a major bank. For everyday investors, the bigger takeaway is how one defense name now commands a larger share of Turkey's market. Make sure you know how much of your own mix leans on a single story like this and how comfortable you are with that exposure.
Amid attention on analyst calls, steady saving beats the noise, so grab your free Always Be Buying E-Book to learn
