Rocket Lab USA, Inc. (NASDAQ: RKLB): A Leading Force in the Aerospace Industry

Font: Financial Modeling Prep  • Jan 15, 2026

• KeyBanc downgraded Rocket Lab (NASDAQ: RKLB) from an Overweight rating to a Sector Weight rating, signaling potential challenges ahead.
• Rocket Lab reported a record-breaking third quarter with revenue of approximately $155 million, the highest in its history, and a significant contract from the U.S. Space Development Agency.
• The company's contracted backlog has surged to $1.1 billion, with management expecting to recognize about 57% of that amount soon, indicating strong future revenue potential.

Rocket Lab USA, Inc. (NASDAQ: RKLB) is a prominent player in the aerospace industry, known for its innovative approach to space launch services. The company specializes in developing small satellite launch vehicles and spacecraft components. As a key competitor to SpaceX, Rocket Lab has carved out a niche as a leading alternative in the space sector.

On January 14, 2026, KeyBanc downgraded Rocket Lab from an Overweight rating to a Sector Weight rating, reflecting a more cautious stance on the company's future prospects. At the time of this downgrade, the stock price was $91.80. This change indicates a shift in KeyBanc's outlook, suggesting potential challenges ahead for Rocket Lab.

Despite KeyBanc's downgrade, Cantor Fitzgerald maintains an optimistic view of Rocket Lab. The company is entering 2026 after a record-breaking third quarter, with a revenue of approximately $155 million, the highest in its history. This financial success is bolstered by a significant contract from the U.S. Space Development Agency, reinforcing Rocket Lab's position as a leading alternative to SpaceX.

Rocket Lab's achievements in 2025, including 21 successful Electron launches, have solidified its status as the second most active launcher in the U.S. and the global leader among publicly traded space companies. The company's contracted backlog has surged to $1.1 billion, with management expecting to recognize about 57% of that amount soon, indicating strong future revenue potential.

The stock for RKLB is currently priced at $91.80, having experienced a notable increase of 6.03%, or $5.22. Today, the stock fluctuated between $84.50 and $92.19, with the latter marking its highest price over the past year. With a market capitalization of approximately $47.09 billion and a trading volume of 27.49 million shares, Rocket Lab remains a significant player in the market.