Blackstone Pours $1 Billion Into New Defense Tech Firm - Blackstone (NYSE:BX)

Wells Fargo initiated coverage of Blackstone (BX) with an Equal Weight rating and a $122 price target, citing its leadership in alternative asset management but expressing caution due to market uncertainties and earnings volatility. Blackstone's dividend yield is 4.45%, but its payout ratio is high at 1.11, raising sustainability concerns.

Blackstone is considering a $2.26 billion offer for Robin Radar, according to sources. The potential sale process could impact Robin Radar's stock value and investor decisions. BAE is also reportedly weighing a bid for the company.

Blackstone (BX) is investing $1B to create Falcata, a new defense technology company. The move aims to capitalize on growing demand for defense and aerospace solutions as geopolitical threats evolve. Falcata will be formed through acquisitions, according to Blackstone.

Alternative asset managers like Apollo, Blackstone, and KKR are financing U.S. LNG and pipeline projects, with $20.35B invested in 2026. Insurance capital is backing projects like Sempra's Port Arthur LNG, Williams' power projects, and ONEOK's acquisitions. LNG projects now attract diverse investors, including infrastructure funds and sovereign wealth funds, due to long-term revenue stability.

Blackstone launches Norla, a logistics investment platform in the Nordics with 200 warehouses, primarily last-mile, covering 2M sqm. The platform, based in Stockholm, will operate in Sweden, Denmark, and Finland, and is expected to be operational next year. The assets are initially valued at €3B, according to a source familiar with the matter.

Blackstone's (BX) longtime private equity head, Joe Baratta, is leaving after 28 years. He will not be replaced, according to an internal memo. Blackstone manages $450B in private equity assets and $1.3T overall. Recent leadership changes include departures in real estate and growth strategy.