Who is Mykhailo Fedorov and why does this matter for investors?

He is Ukraine’s tech-focused first deputy prime minister, proposed to lead the Defense Ministry, pending parliament approval. His track record in digital services and drones signals more funding for UAVs, EW, and counter‑drone. That may support European defense stocks with sensor, munitions, and air-defense exposure favored by front-line needs.

How could this impact German defense stocks like Rheinmetall and Hensoldt?

A drone-first approach supports demand for radars, optronics, EW, and ammunition. That aligns with Rheinmetall’s air-defense and munitions and Hensoldt’s sensors and counter‑UAV. Watch order intake, backlog conversion, and guidance. Valuations are elevated, so time entries using technicals and ensure cash flow quality supports growth plans.

What metrics should I track near term?

Focus on order announcements tied to drones, counter‑UAV, and EW, delivery schedules, and margin mix. For RHM.DE and HAG.DE, monitor EPS guidance, free cash flow, debt-service ratios, and book-to-bill. Technically, watch RSI, MACD turns, and Bollinger bands for entry signals, alongside any EU or NATO procurement updates.

How can DE retail investors gain exposure while managing risk?

Consider a core in diversified European primes with selective satellite positions in sensor or drone specialists. Use staggered buys, set stop-loss levels sized to volatility, and cap single-name exposure. Review currency impacts for U.S. listings and prefer firms with strong balance sheets, durable backlogs, and improving cash conversion.

Law and Government

January 03: Zelensky Picks Mykhailo Fedorov to Lead Defense Ministry, Drone Push

ByHuzaifa Zahoor January 3, 2026January 3, 2026

Mykhailo Fedorov defense minin nomination points to a drone-first shift in Ukraine. President Zelensky proposed the tech-focused deputy PM to lead the ministry, pending parliament approval. We see potential acceleration in UAVs, counter‑drone, and electronic warfare orders that can sway European defense stocks. For German investors, the read-through touches Rheinmetall and Hensoldt, while U.S. supplier AVAV sits in the drone segment. Below we outline the procurement backdrop, key metrics, and what to watch for portfolio positioning in DE.