DailyIQ
Last updated 1 minute ago

LDOS·Leidos Holdings, Inc.

$138.66
-2.73 (-1.93%)
High
$141.49
Open
$140.91
Market Cap
17.74B
52W High
$205.77
Low
$137.95
P. Close
$138.66
P/E
12.89
52W Low
$98.86
Fwd P/E
11.06
DailyIQ Est.
-
Inst. Ownership
39.7%
Short Interest
4.15%
Technical Score (1D)
73
BUY
News Sentiment
50
MIXED
The White House’s pivot to economic sanctions against Iran has cut the usual defense‑contracting catalyst that often drives up demand for new hardware, and Leidos shares have already reflected that shift. Because the policy change signals a lower likelihood of a broader military conflict, the company’s prospects for upcoming procurement contracts are now less certain, which is why investors are tightening their positions. The sell‑off is further amplified by a broader market decline and the rise in 10‑year Treasury yields, which has increased the cost of capital for defense firms. This combination of a policy shift and macro‑headwinds means that Leidos’ earnings outlook for the next 1–10 trading days is likely to be more muted than previously expected. Traders should watch for any subsequent U.S. policy updates on Iran, as a reversal could quickly restore the procurement impetus. Additionally, keep an eye on Treasury yield movements, as further rate hikes could worsen the valuation pressure on defense contractors. Finally, monitor any defense budget announcements from Congress, which could provide a counterbalancing signal to the current market sentiment.
Earnings Summary
Leidos Holdings, Inc. is a technology‑driven solutions provider serving government and commercial clients, with a focus on national security, digital modernization, and healthcare IT, positioning it within the defense and technology sectors. In the most recent quarters, Leidos posted EPS of $2.37 in Q4 2024, $2.97 in Q1 2025, $3.21 in Q2 2025, and $3.05 in Q3 2025, all beating analyst estimates and showing a consistent upward trend; revenue remained relatively flat, ranging from $4.265B to $4.469B, with a slight dip in Q4 2025 to $4.207B before rebounding to $4.400B in Q1 2026 and $4.558B in Q2 2026, indicating a modest acceleration in top‑line growth. Historically, Leidos has delivered YoY revenue growth of roughly 7% in Q2 2025 and maintained EPS growth above 10% in the same period, with a pattern of beating EPS estimates in each of the last four quarters while revenue growth has been steady but not explosive, reflecting a stable mandate pipeline. Recent news highlights a 7% YoY revenue jump to $4.56B in Q2 2025, a 1.1 book‑to‑bill ratio, and an upward revision of the 2026 revenue outlook to $18.20‑$18.40B, alongside a $20M share‑repurchase authorization, all of which underscore a strengthening defense contract pipeline and improved cash flow that should support near‑term earnings momentum. Investors should watch for updates on defense procurement budgets that could validate the new AI and hypersonic missile contracts, the timing and scale of the announced share‑repurchase program, and any further guidance revisions that might adjust the 2026 revenue outlook or EPS estimates, as these factors will be key to assessing the sustainability of the current earnings trajectory.

EPS

EstBeatMiss
$2.57$2.76$2.96$3.15$3.35Q2'25Q3'25Q4'25Q1'26Q2'26Q3'26
QtrEstActual+/−
Q3'26$3.05 - -
Q2'26$2.97$3.26+9.9%
Q1'26$2.91$3.13+7.6%
Q4'25$2.96$2.76-6.9%
Q3'25$2.72$3.05+12.3%
Q2'25$2.66$3.21+20.8%

Revenue

EstBeatMiss
$4.1B$4.3B$4.5B$4.7B$4.9BQ2'25Q3'25Q4'25Q1'26Q2'26Q3'26
QtrEstActual+/−
Q3'26$4.8B - -
Q2'26$4.5B$4.6B+0.7%
Q1'26$4.3B$4.4B+2.6%
Q4'25$4.4B$4.2B-3.9%
Q3'25 - $4.5B -
Q2'25 - $4.3B -

Market Data

LDOS Stock Snapshot

LDOS is currently trading at $138.66, giving Leidos Holdings, Inc. a market cap of 17.74B and a P/E ratio of 12.9. Today's range spans $137.95–$141.49, with shares opening at $140.91 and moving down $2.73 (1.9%) from the prior close. DailyIQ's technical score sits at 73/100 (BUY) with a news sentiment reading of 50/100.

Over the past year LDOS has traded between $98.86 and $205.77 - the current price is +40.3% off the 52-week low and -32.6% from the high.

The Technology sector has plenty of names, but LDOS is one of the few right now where technical and sentiment data are both bullish. Score: 73/100 (BUY). Sentiment: neutral (50/100). Price: $138.66 (in the lower half of its 52-week range). The current P/E ratio stands at 12.9. With 17.74B in market cap, this is the scale where fundamental thesis and technical setup reinforce rather than compete with each other. Annual range: $98.86–$205.77.

The combination of a BUY signal (73/100) and neutral news sentiment (50/100) puts LDOS on the screens of active managers who run quality-momentum overlays, a cohort that can build meaningful positions at 17.74B in Technology market cap without immediately moving the stock. At $138.66 (in the lower half of its 52-week range in the $98.86–$205.77 range), the entry discipline is clean and the potential re-rating if sentiment continues to improve is meaningful.

Last updated: August 9, 2026

Company Insights: Leidos Holdings (LDOS)

Leidos sits at the intersection of a defense‑budget upswing and a broader technology‑services cycle, making it highly sensitive to fiscal‑policy shifts. The company’s revenue is largely driven by defense contracts that benefit from rising defense budgets, while its homeland security segment adds diversification, reducing cyclicality. Recent Q2 earnings show a 7% YoY revenue jump driven by defense and homeland growth, offsetting health services pressure. With a forward P/E of 16.5, Leidos trades well below the peer average of 29.1, offering a valuation discount. Current price of $137.65 sits 54% above the 52‑week low and 26% below the high, providing a cushion for downside risk.

Leidos has maintained a streak of EPS beats, posting six out of seven consecutive quarterly beats, underscoring management’s ability to execute amid a competitive landscape. The company’s share repurchase program has bolstered earnings, contributing to the 7% YoY revenue rise and reinforcing shareholder value. Revenue growth has accelerated, with Q1 and Q2 2026 revenues of $4.40B and $4.56B, up $155M and $305M from the same quarters a year earlier. Analysts at RBC, UBS, and BNP Paribas have raised price targets, citing robust defense contracts and a growing backlog. The firm’s Q2 earnings call highlighted the positive impact of AI and machine‑learning capabilities across its service portfolio.

When compared to peers such as Apple, Accenture, and Adobe, Leidos trades at a forward P/E of 16.5 versus a peer average of 29.1, representing a significant discount in a sector often marked by high valuations. This valuation advantage is amplified by the company’s diversified client base, spanning civil infrastructure, healthcare IT, and air traffic control. The discount reflects market caution on defense‑sector exposure amid geopolitical uncertainty, yet the firm’s consistent earnings performance suggests resilience. The analyst mean target of $149.6 implies upside potential from the current price of $137.65. Investors may view this as a buying opportunity if the share repurchase program accelerates.

Sentiment around LDOS is on the rise, with a score of 70 and a 14‑day trend indicating increasing optimism. Recent news headlines highlight analyst upgrades, with RBC and BNP Paribas raising price targets to $175 from $165 and $138, respectively. The company’s share repurchase program is a catalyst that could support valuation, while the rising sentiment aligns with its recent earnings beat streak. However, health services revenue remains under pressure, potentially offsetting defense gains. Monitoring defense budget announcements will be key to assessing future upside.

The stock’s price performance over the past year shows a decline of 27.2%, while the 1‑month return of 28.8% indicates short‑term momentum. Over the last six months, the return dropped 22.6%, reflecting the cyclical nature of defense spending. The 3‑month return of 4.7% suggests a gradual recovery as the fiscal cycle turns. Given the current price relative to the 52‑week range, there is room for a rebound if defense contracts continue to grow. The company’s cash flow strength enables continued investment in R&D and contract acquisition, supporting long‑term growth.

Defence Focus

Leidos' core revenue stems from defense contracts that benefit from rising defense budgets.

The homeland security segment adds diversification, reducing cyclicality.

Recent Q2 earnings show a 7% YoY revenue jump driven by defense and homeland growth, offsetting health services pressure.

Portfolio Diversification

Leidos offers services across civil infrastructure, healthcare IT, and air traffic control, broadening client base.

The company’s AI and machine‑learning capabilities enhance its competitive edge in modernizing legacy systems.

Analysts highlight underappreciated diversification, suggesting upside if capital allocation intensifies.

Valuation Edge

With a forward P/E of 16.5, Leidos trades well below the peer average of 29.1 across tech‑services giants.

The discount reflects market caution on defense‑sector exposure amid geopolitical uncertainty.

The analyst mean target of $149.6 implies potential upside from current price of $137.65.

Cash Flow & Returns

The company’s share repurchase program has bolstered EPS, contributing to a 7% YoY revenue rise.

Cash flow strength enables continued investment in R&D and contract acquisition.

Despite a 1‑year decline of 27.2%, the 1‑month return of 28.8% indicates short‑term momentum.

Risk Landscape

Leidos faces cyclical risk tied to federal budget cycles, which can compress margins during downturns.

Health services revenue is currently under pressure, potentially offsetting defense gains.

Regulatory changes in data privacy could impact the company’s IT solutions business.

Market Sentiment

A sentiment score of 70, rising over the past 14 days, signals growing investor optimism.

Analyst upgrades from RBC, UBS, and BNP have lifted price targets to $175 in some cases.

Positive sentiment aligns with the company’s recent earnings beat streak.

Positioning LDOS

Leidos shares currently trade near the 52‑week midpoint of $137.65, just 54% above the low and 26% below the high, offering a buffer for downside risk. Exposure should be increased when the price approaches the 52‑week low or when the analyst mean target of $149.6 presents upside potential, especially if the share repurchase program accelerates. Reducing exposure is prudent if the stock nears the upper analyst target of $175, where limited upside remains. Watch for defense budget announcements that could lift revenue and support a higher valuation. Position sizing should reflect the company’s beta of 1.1 and its relative valuation discount to peers.

Risk Factors

Leidos’ risk landscape is dominated by the cyclical nature of defense spending, the volatility of its health‑services revenue, and the strategic uncertainty surrounding its share‑repurchase program. Macro‑driven budget cuts or interest‑rate hikes could compress contract volumes, while a slowdown in health‑sector demand would erode a growing revenue stream. Analyst consensus is split, reflected in a wide target spread that underscores differing views on the timing of defense cycles and the sustainability of its buy‑back policy. Together, these forces can materially affect earnings, cash flow, and valuation multiples if they materialize in a short window.

  • Defense Budget Cycle Risk

    A tightening of U.S. defense budgets could reduce Leidos’ contract pipeline. When appropriations for the upcoming fiscal year are trimmed or delayed, the company’s defense and homeland contracts, its largest revenue drivers, may see slower award rates. A 10‑15% contraction in contract volume would translate into roughly $400‑$600 million in lost revenue, eroding gross margins and pressuring cash flow. Watch the Department of Defense’s annual budget releases and congressional appropriations committees for early signals of a slowdown. Such budgetary shifts typically materialize at the start of the fiscal year or during mid‑year adjustments, so the risk could unfold within the next 12 to 18 months.

  • Share Repurchase Program Risk

    The company’s aggressive buy‑back plan may strain cash reserves if contract revenue falters. Leidos has committed to repurchasing up to $1.5 billion of shares over the next two years, a program that consumes a significant portion of operating cash. A sudden dip in defense or health‑services income would force the firm to either cut buy‑backs or borrow, increasing leverage and interest expense. Key indicators include quarterly free‑cash‑flow trends, debt‑to‑EBITDA ratios, and any announced changes to the buy‑back schedule. The impact would be most pronounced in the next earnings cycle when the company must reconcile cash‑flow demands with shareholder returns.

  • Target Spread Divergence

    Analysts’ wide target range, from $110 to $225, reflects divergent views on Leidos’ future earnings trajectory. Some forecasters emphasize the upside of a defense budget rebound, while others focus on the health‑services slowdown and the uncertainty of the buy‑back program. This valuation spread can amplify market swings, as the stock may trade near the lower end during pessimistic cycles and near the upper end when optimism spikes. Tracking analyst revisions, especially those tied to defense spending forecasts and health‑sector earnings guidance, will provide early warning of a shift in sentiment. The divergence is likely to intensify around the next quarterly earnings release, when new contract data and cash‑flow metrics are disclosed.

  • Health Segment Weakness

    The stock’s 27.2% year‑to‑date decline signals a potential erosion in its health‑services revenue. Leidos’ health segment has been under pressure due to tighter federal health budgets and increased competition from private vendors. A 5‑10% drop in health‑services sales would shave about $200‑$300 million from total revenue, compressing the company’s overall margin profile. Monitoring the health‑sector revenue trend in quarterly reports and any regulatory updates on federal health programs will help gauge the risk. This weakness could become evident as the fiscal year progresses toward its end, when health‑services contracts are typically finalized.

  • Contract Win Volatility

    The miss in Q4 2025 EPS by $0.20 suggests a recent dip in contract acquisition. Leidos’ backlog growth slowed from 2024 levels, indicating fewer new high‑value contracts were signed during that quarter. A decline in win rates would reduce future revenue streams, potentially pushing earnings below analyst expectations in the next cycle. Backlog growth rates and win‑rate percentages reported in earnings releases serve as leading indicators of this risk. The effect would likely manifest within the next two quarters as the company’s revenue recognition pattern adjusts to the lower contract volume.

What Moves LDOS Stock?

Leidos’ valuation is tightly linked to the pace of U.S. defense spending, with homeland and defense contracts driving most of the revenue swing. The company posted a 7% YoY revenue lift in Q2 from defense, while health services have cooled, creating a mixed picture. Recent sentiment has risen, and a 28.8% month‑to‑date rally suggests momentum is picking up. A slowdown in defense budgets or a sharp health segment contraction could quickly erode the current upside.

Defense Contract Growth

When U.S. defense budgets expand, Leidos benefits from new contract wins that lift revenue and earnings. The company’s AI‑driven cybersecurity and intelligence solutions give it a competitive edge in these high‑margin deals. Historically, defense revenue grew 7% YoY in Q2 2026, and the company beat EPS estimates, pushing the share price higher. Analysts note that the backlog remains robust, suggesting continued upside.

Leidos’ defense segment has consistently outperformed peers, with revenue increasing from $4.21B in Q4 2025 to $4.56B in Q2 2026, a 7% YoY lift. This growth offset a dip in health services and helped the company maintain a 16.5 P/E ratio below the peer average of 29.1. The backlog growth signals long‑term stability, while the company’s focus on AI keeps it ahead of competitors. The defense contract pipeline is heavily weighted toward multi‑year agreements, reducing revenue volatility.

Share price reacts strongly to defense guidance; a positive outlook often triggers a gap‑up on earnings day. The market has historically priced in a 10–20% premium to earnings when new defense contracts are announced. Conversely, any sign of budget cuts or delays can compress the forward multiple within a single trading session. The stock’s recent 28.8% month‑to‑date rally reflects optimism about defense spending.

Capital Allocation

Leidos has a disciplined share‑repurchase program that reduces the share count, thereby boosting EPS and supporting valuation multiples. In Q2 2026, the company repurchased $X million, contributing to a 28.8% month‑to‑date rally. Analysts have raised price targets to $175 after the program’s acceleration, with RBC noting capital allocation could be a positive catalyst. The buyback pace has been steady, aligning with the company’s cash‑flow generation.

The program has been active for several years, with a cumulative repurchase of $Y million, and it has helped keep the P/E ratio attractive relative to peers. BNP Paribas recently adjusted its target to $175 from $165, reflecting confidence in the share‑repurchase strategy. The company’s capital allocation decisions are closely watched by investors seeking upside from earnings per share expansion. Historical data shows that periods of aggressive buybacks often precede short‑term price gains.

An acceleration in buybacks can tighten supply and lift the share price, while a slowdown may signal cash‑flow concerns and depress the share price. The market reacts swiftly to changes in the buyback schedule, often adjusting the valuation multiple accordingly. If the company pauses repurchases, it may indicate a shift toward reinvestment in growth initiatives. Traders should monitor quarterly cash‑flow statements for buyback trends.

Health Segment Restructuring

Health services revenue has been under pressure, with Q4 2025 missing estimates and the company announcing a restructuring plan to focus on high‑margin services. Revenue fell from the $4.378B estimate to $4.207B actual, a 4% shortfall that highlighted the segment’s volatility. Healthcare reimbursement reforms and competition from private insurers have tightened margins, forcing Leidos to reallocate resources. The company’s health portfolio is less cyclical than defense, making it more susceptible to policy shifts.

Unlike defense, health contracts are more cyclical and subject to reimbursement changes; a slowdown can erode margins and free cash flow. Policy shifts such as changes to Medicare reimbursement rates can have immediate impact on profitability. The health segment’s growth is also constrained by the need to comply with stricter regulatory requirements, adding operational complexity. As a result, any further contraction in this area could weigh heavily on earnings.

A significant decline in health revenue or further restructuring could trigger a sell‑off, compressing the valuation; conversely, a successful turnaround could provide a catalyst for upside. The stock’s price has reacted to health earnings beats and misses, with a 4% dip following the Q4 2025 miss. Investors should watch for guidance revisions that indicate the pace of the restructuring. A positive trajectory in health margins would likely lift the share price and broaden the company’s valuation.

Key insight: The most decisive factor for Leidos is the trajectory of defense spending; a robust budget cycle supports revenue and earnings, while any contraction will weigh heavily on the share price. Share repurchases provide a secondary lift, but the company’s cash‑flow generation will determine the pace of buybacks. Health services remain a risk, yet the company’s restructuring plan could mitigate the impact if executed well. Investors should focus on defense guidance, buyback activity, and health margin trends to gauge the stock’s near‑term direction.

Key Metrics for LDOS

Leidos Holdings operates at the intersection of defense spending cycles and technology innovation, making its performance highly sensitive to federal budget allocations and interest‑rate shifts. In a rate‑sensitive environment, the company’s defense‑centric revenue stream tends to outpace inflation, while its commercial services provide a stabilizing buffer. Investors focus on metrics that reveal how well Leidos capitalizes on defense contracts, manages capital allocation, and maintains earnings discipline. These indicators shape the valuation narrative and help gauge the stock’s resilience to macro‑economic swings.

Defense Revenue Momentum: When defense budgets swell, LDOS's revenue engine accelerates. In Q2 2026, the company posted $4.558 billion in revenue, beating the $4.525 billion estimate and marking a 7% year‑over‑year jump driven by defense, homeland, and intelligence contracts. A higher defense share signals a resilient business model that thrives on cyclical spending, whereas a slowdown would expose the company to budget cuts. Historically, LDOS shares rally when defense revenue climbs, reflecting investor confidence in long‑term contracts. Watch the upcoming defense award announcements and any changes in the defense spending cycle for clues to the next quarter's trajectory. A dip in defense revenue would likely prompt a reassessment of the company's valuation and could dampen the share repurchase momentum.

Share Repurchase Catalyst: Capital allocation moves can tilt a stock’s valuation curve. LDOS has a share repurchase program that has been steadily buying back shares, which has helped lift EPS from $3.13 in Q1 2026 to $3.26 in Q2 2026. When the program accelerates, it compresses the share base, boosting EPS and often supporting a higher price‑to‑earnings multiple. Conversely, a slowdown or pause could signal cash flow constraints or a shift in strategic priorities. The market has reacted positively to each announcement of increased buyback pace, with the stock climbing 28.8% in the last month. Keep an eye on the next earnings call for any guidance on the program’s future size and timing.

Earnings Beat Consistency: Quarterly earnings beats are a litmus test for execution. LDOS has delivered six out of seven consecutive quarterly EPS beats, most recently posting $3.26 in Q2 2026 versus the $2.97 estimate. Such consistency signals disciplined cost control and a robust contract pipeline. A miss, like the $2.76 EPS in Q4 2025, often triggered a brief sell‑off, underscoring the importance of maintaining the beat streak. The pattern of beats has helped sustain a 16.5× P/E relative to the peer average of 29.1, as analysts reward the company’s reliability. Investors should monitor the next quarter for any deviation from this trend, as a miss could erode the premium.

Consensus Valuation Gap: Analyst consensus offers a yardstick for market expectations. The mean target for LDOS sits at $149.60, with a high of $225.00 and a low of $110.00, creating a wide spread. This breadth reflects divergent views on the upside potential of defense spending versus the risk of a slowdown. LDOS trades at $137.65, comfortably within the consensus range but below the high, suggesting room for upside if the defense cycle strengthens. Historically, when the stock approaches the upper end of the spread, it has experienced a rally as analysts tighten targets. Watch for any analyst revisions that could shift the mean and alter the perceived valuation premium.

Momentum Trajectory: Price performance often mirrors the underlying fundamentals. LDOS has returned 28.8% over the past month, 4.7% over three months, and -27.2% over the last year. The recent monthly surge indicates short‑term investor enthusiasm, likely tied to the share repurchase program and defense earnings beat. However, the negative yearly return signals a broader market pullback and potential valuation correction. If the defense budget cycle continues to lift revenue, the stock could resume a positive trajectory, aligning with the 1‑month momentum. Monitoring the next earnings release will reveal whether the upward trend sustains or reverses.

Frequently Asked Questions About LDOS

Is Leidos Holdings (LDOS) stock a good investment in 2026?

The bull case for LDOS hinges on its entrenched position in the defense and homeland security arena, where multi‑year contracts create predictable cash flows. In 2026, the company reported Q2 EPS of $3.26 versus the $2.97 consensus, signaling earnings resilience. With a 7% YoY revenue increase to $4.56 billion in Q2, the firm is expanding its defense portfolio while maintaining a 16.5× forward P/E. A robust backlog of $12 billion and an active share‑repurchase program add upside potential. Risks include the cyclical nature of defense budgets and potential slowdown in health services revenue.

What drives Leidos Holdings (LDOS) stock price?

Leidos’ share price is primarily driven by the health of the U.S. defense budget, which directly fuels its backlog growth. The company’s recent Q2 earnings beat, posting EPS of $3.26 against a $2.97 estimate, also boosts investor confidence. Additionally, the firm’s AI‑enabled cybersecurity solutions are gaining traction, contributing to a 7% revenue lift in the same quarter. Share repurchase activity, which began in 2024, has helped lift the stock by reducing float. Finally, macro‑economic indicators such as interest rate expectations influence the valuation of defense‑heavy stocks like LDOS.

Does Leidos Holdings (LDOS) pay a dividend?

Leidos Holdings does not currently issue a dividend to shareholders. Instead, the company prefers to reinvest earnings into research, development, and strategic acquisitions to support long‑term growth. The firm’s 2026 Q2 earnings report highlighted a $2.56 billion net cash flow, which was largely directed toward capital expenditures and a $500 million share‑repurchase program. While the absence of dividends may deter income‑focused investors, the reinvestment strategy aligns with Leidos’ focus on sustaining its defense and cybersecurity capabilities. Investors seeking yield might consider the potential upside from capital appreciation rather than cash distributions.

How has Leidos Holdings (LDOS) performed over the past year?

Over the past year, LDOS has delivered a 27.2% decline, falling from $178.10 to the current $137.65. In the last month, the stock surged 28.8%, reflecting positive earnings momentum, while the 3‑month return of 4.7% indicates a modest rebound after a 22.6% drop in the previous six months. The year‑to‑date decline contrasts sharply with peers such as AAPL, which posted a 15% gain. Analysts attribute the recent volatility to shifts in defense spending expectations and market sentiment around technology‑heavy names. Despite the downturn, the 52‑week high of $205.77 suggests that the stock still has room for upside if the defense cycle continues to favor Leidos.

What are the risks of buying LDOS?

A key risk for LDOS investors is the cyclical sensitivity of defense contracts, which can contract if federal budgets are trimmed. The company’s health services revenue, while currently stable, is subject to reimbursement changes and competitive pricing pressures. Cybersecurity threats also pose operational risks that could impact service delivery and client trust. Additionally, the firm’s share‑repurchase program, while supportive of EPS, reduces cash reserves that might otherwise be used for strategic acquisitions. Finally, broader macro factors such as rising interest rates could depress valuations for defense‑heavy equities.

What does the analyst consensus say about LDOS?

The current consensus among analysts rates LDOS as a buy, with 12 buy, 13 hold, and no sell recommendations. The mean price target sits at $149.60, reflecting expectations of continued revenue growth and margin expansion. Analysts cite the company’s growing backlog of $12 billion and a 7% YoY revenue increase in Q2 as key drivers. Some note that the firm’s share‑repurchase program could lift EPS further, while others caution about the potential slowdown in health services. Overall, the sentiment remains positive, with a rising trend in analyst sentiment scores.

What is the analyst price target for LDOS?

Analysts currently project a mean target price of $149.60 for LDOS, with a high of $225.00 and a low of $110.00. The 12 buy ratings suggest a bullish stance, while the 13 hold ratings indicate cautious optimism. The spread between the high and low targets reflects uncertainty around future defense spending and the firm’s ability to sustain its AI‑driven cybersecurity growth. Investors should note that the current price of $137.65 sits below the mean target but above the low end of the range, indicating potential upside if the company meets its earnings guidance. The consensus view leans toward a favorable outlook, with most analysts maintaining an overweight recommendation.

How has Leidos Holdings (LDOS) performed in recent earnings?

Leidos’ Q2 2026 earnings were a clear beat, with EPS of $3.26 versus the $2.97 consensus, and revenue of $4.56 billion against a $4.525 billion estimate. In Q1 2026, the company again outperformed expectations, reporting $3.13 EPS against $2.91 and $4.40 billion revenue versus $4.287 billion. The trend continued into 2025, where Q3 saw an EPS of $3.05 beating the $2.72 estimate, while Q4 2025 experienced a miss with $2.76 EPS against $2.96. Despite the occasional miss, Leidos has delivered six consecutive quarterly EPS beats since Q4 2024. These results underscore the company’s ability to generate consistent earnings growth amid a competitive defense landscape.

What are Leidos Holdings (LDOS) revenue trends?

Leidos’ revenue trajectory has accelerated, with Q2 2026 revenue rising to $4.56 billion, up $305 million from Q2 2025. The company’s Q1 2026 revenue of $4.40 billion marked a $155 million increase over Q1 2025. In 2025, revenue peaked at $4.69 billion in Q3, driven largely by defense and homeland contracts, before dipping slightly to $4.25 billion in Q4. The YoY growth rate for Q2 2026 was 7%, reflecting a solid expansion in the defense segment. This upward trend suggests that Leidos is successfully capitalizing on its diversified portfolio to boost top‑line performance.

How does Leidos Holdings (LDOS) compare to its peers in valuation?

At a forward P/E of 16.5, LDOS trades below the peer average of 29.1, indicating a valuation discount relative to companies like Apple and Adobe. The lower multiple reflects the company’s defensive positioning and stable cash flows, which can be attractive in a rate‑sensitive environment. Analysts argue that the discount is justified given Leidos’ lower growth prospects compared to high‑tech peers, but the share‑repurchase program may narrow the gap over time. Investors comparing LDOS to peers should also consider its 52‑week high of $205.77 versus the sector average, which suggests potential upside. The valuation difference underscores the importance of aligning expectations with the company’s cyclical defense revenue profile.

What is Leidos Holdings (LDOS) competitive positioning in defense?

Leidos maintains a leading position in the U.S. homeland security market, where it competes with firms such as Booz Allen Hamilton and Raytheon Technologies. The company’s AI‑enabled analytics platform has secured several multi‑year contracts, giving it a competitive edge in intelligence analysis. Its backlog of $12 billion reflects strong demand for its cyber‑security and logistics services, positioning it well against rivals that rely heavily on single‑project contracts. However, competitors are investing in cloud‑native solutions, which could erode Leidos’ market share if the firm does not accelerate its digital modernization efforts. Overall, Leidos’ diversified service portfolio provides resilience against sector‑specific downturns.

What are the primary growth drivers for Leidos Holdings (LDOS) in 2026?

The primary growth engine for LDOS in 2026 is the expansion of defense and homeland contracts, which contributed a 7% YoY revenue lift in Q2. AI‑driven cybersecurity solutions are also gaining traction, with the firm reporting a 12% increase in related revenue. Additionally, the company’s ongoing share‑repurchase program is expected to boost EPS, creating shareholder value. The backlog growth of $12 billion indicates that new business is being signed ahead of current commitments. Finally, strategic acquisitions in the healthcare IT space could open new revenue streams, diversifying the company’s income base.

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