COPT Defense Properties (CDP)


Market Price (8/5/2026): $37.82 | Market Cap: $4.3 BilSector: Real Estate | Industry: Office REITs

COPT Defense Properties (CDP)


Market Price (8/5/2026): $37.82
Market Cap: $4.3 Bil
Sector: Real Estate
Industry: Office REITs

Investment Highlights Why It Matters Detailed financial logic regarding cash flow yields vs trend-riding momentum.

0

Attractive yield
Total YieldTotal Yield = Earnings Yield + Dividend Yield, Earnings Yield = Net Income / Market Cap Dividend Yield = Total Dividends / Market Cap is 7.1%, Dividend Yield is 3.3%, FCF Yield is 7.5%

Attractive cash flow generation
CFO/Rev LTMCash Flow from Operations / Revenue (Sales), Last Twelve Months (LTM) is 43%, FCF/Rev LTMFree Cash Flow / Revenue (Sales), Last Twelve Months (LTM) is 41%

Low stock price volatility
Vol 12M is 18%

Megatrend and thematic drivers
Megatrends include E-commerce Logistics & Data Centers, Smart Buildings & Proptech, and Sustainable & Green Buildings. Themes include Data Center REITs, Show more.

Trading close to highs
Dist 52W High is -1.4%, Dist 3Y High is -1.4%

Weak multi-year price returns
2Y Excs Rtn is -1.2%, 3Y Excs Rtn is -3.2%

Debt is significant
Net D/ENet Debt/Equity. Debt net of cash. Negative indicates net cash. Equity is taken as the Market Capitalization is 61%

Key risks
CDP key risks include [1] an extreme revenue dependence on a highly concentrated base of U.S. Show more.

0 Attractive yield
Total YieldTotal Yield = Earnings Yield + Dividend Yield, Earnings Yield = Net Income / Market Cap Dividend Yield = Total Dividends / Market Cap is 7.1%, Dividend Yield is 3.3%, FCF Yield is 7.5%
1 Attractive cash flow generation
CFO/Rev LTMCash Flow from Operations / Revenue (Sales), Last Twelve Months (LTM) is 43%, FCF/Rev LTMFree Cash Flow / Revenue (Sales), Last Twelve Months (LTM) is 41%
2 Low stock price volatility
Vol 12M is 18%
3 Megatrend and thematic drivers
Megatrends include E-commerce Logistics & Data Centers, Smart Buildings & Proptech, and Sustainable & Green Buildings. Themes include Data Center REITs, Show more.
4 Trading close to highs
Dist 52W High is -1.4%, Dist 3Y High is -1.4%
5 Weak multi-year price returns
2Y Excs Rtn is -1.2%, 3Y Excs Rtn is -3.2%
6 Debt is significant
Net D/ENet Debt/Equity. Debt net of cash. Negative indicates net cash. Equity is taken as the Market Capitalization is 61%
7 Key risks
CDP key risks include [1] an extreme revenue dependence on a highly concentrated base of U.S. Show more.

CDP in ETFs

Weight = CDP's share of each fund

ITOT0.01%
IWM0.14%
IJH0.12%
VB0.05%
USRT0.35%
SCHH0.29%
IWN0.29%
VNQ0.26%
+14 more covered ETFs

Valuation & Metrics

Price Chart

Why The Stock Moved

Qualitative Assessment

AI Analysis | Feedback

Updated on 8/1/2026

COPT Defense Properties (CDP) stock has gained about 20% since 4/30/2026 because of the following key factors:

1. Exceptional Fiscal Q2 2026 Earnings Beat and Upgraded Full-Year Guidance.

COPT Defense Properties reported robust operating results for fiscal Q2 2026 (ended June 30, 2026) on July 27, 2026. The company announced Funds From Operations (FFO) per diluted share of $0.71, surpassing the consensus estimate of $0.33 and exceeding its own guidance midpoint by $0.02. Additionally, total revenues reached $197.4 million, topping analyst estimates ranging from $188.93 million to $189.4 million. Following this strong performance, management raised its full-year fiscal 2026 FFO per share guidance midpoint by $0.02 to $2.78, which is $0.03 higher than its initial outlook. They also increased the same-property cash Net Operating Income (NOI) growth guidance by 100 basis points to 4.0% and cash rent spreads on renewals by 100 basis points to 3%.

2. Sustained Strong Demand from Defense and Government Tenants Amid Surging Defense Budgets.

COPT Defense Properties experienced strong demand and leasing momentum from its core defense and government tenants. This is significantly bolstered by an unprecedented increase in U.S. Department of Defense (DOD) funding, with the fiscal year 2027 DOD budget request totaling $1.425 trillion, representing a 44% increase over the prior fiscal year. This substantial funding environment drives demand for COPT Defense's specialized, secure properties located near critical defense installations and supports long-term occupancy and rent growth.

Show more
Updated on 8/1/2026

COPT Defense Properties (CDP) stock has gained about 20% since 4/30/2026 because of the following key factors:

1. Exceptional Fiscal Q2 2026 Earnings Beat and Upgraded Full-Year Guidance.

COPT Defense Properties reported robust operating results for fiscal Q2 2026 (ended June 30, 2026) on July 27, 2026. The company announced Funds From Operations (FFO) per diluted share of $0.71, surpassing the consensus estimate of $0.33 and exceeding its own guidance midpoint by $0.02. Additionally, total revenues reached $197.4 million, topping analyst estimates ranging from $188.93 million to $189.4 million. Following this strong performance, management raised its full-year fiscal 2026 FFO per share guidance midpoint by $0.02 to $2.78, which is $0.03 higher than its initial outlook. They also increased the same-property cash Net Operating Income (NOI) growth guidance by 100 basis points to 4.0% and cash rent spreads on renewals by 100 basis points to 3%.

2. Sustained Strong Demand from Defense and Government Tenants Amid Surging Defense Budgets.

COPT Defense Properties experienced strong demand and leasing momentum from its core defense and government tenants. This is significantly bolstered by an unprecedented increase in U.S. Department of Defense (DOD) funding, with the fiscal year 2027 DOD budget request totaling $1.425 trillion, representing a 44% increase over the prior fiscal year. This substantial funding environment drives demand for COPT Defense's specialized, secure properties located near critical defense installations and supports long-term occupancy and rent growth.

3. High Portfolio Occupancy and Strategic Development Pipeline.

The company demonstrated strong operational efficiency, achieving a 7.4% year-over-year increase in same-property cash NOI for fiscal Q2 2026, with its Defense/IT portfolio showing an 8.5% growth. As of June 30, 2026, the total portfolio was 94.1% occupied and the Defense/IT portfolio was 96.4% leased, maintaining high occupancy rates. COPT Defense also actively expanded its development pipeline, with projects totaling nearly 900,000 square feet that are 73% pre-leased, signifying future growth potential. This was further supported by a $43 million land acquisition in Chantilly, Virginia, aimed at expanding its footprint in high-demand areas.

4. Positive Analyst Sentiment and Upward Price Target Revisions.

Several financial analysts issued positive reports and raised price targets for COPT Defense Properties within the specified period. For example, JPMorgan Chase & Co. increased its price target from $33.00 to $34.00 on May 15, and Truist Financial also raised its objective from $33.00 to $34.00 on June 8. Wells Fargo & Company lifted its price target from $35.00 to $36.00 on June 1. Furthermore, Evercore reiterated an "outperform" rating with a $42.00 target price, and Cantor Fitzgerald maintained an "overweight" rating with a $37.00 target. BTIG initiated coverage with a "Buy" rating, citing the FFO beat, higher guidance, and the defense-related development pipeline as key drivers. The company currently holds a "Moderate Buy" consensus rating among analysts.

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Stock Movement Drivers

Fundamental Drivers

The 22.1% change in CDP stock from 4/30/2026 to 8/4/2026 was primarily driven by a 13.5% change in the company's P/E Multiple.
(LTM values as of)43020268042026Change
Stock Price ($)30.9837.8122.1%
Change Contribution By: 
Total Revenues ($ Mil)7647842.7%
Net Income Margin (%)19.9%20.9%5.0%
P/E Multiple22.926.013.5%
Shares Outstanding (Mil)113113-0.2%
Cumulative Contribution22.1%

LTM = Last Twelve Months as of date shown

Market Drivers

4/30/2026 to 8/4/2026
ReturnCorrelation
CDP22.1% 
Market (SPY)7.3%-9.1%
Sector (XLRE)1.7%61.1%

Fundamental Drivers

The 25.1% change in CDP stock from 1/31/2026 to 8/4/2026 was primarily driven by a 14.6% change in the company's P/E Multiple.
(LTM values as of)13120268042026Change
Stock Price ($)30.2237.8125.1%
Change Contribution By: 
Total Revenues ($ Mil)7507844.6%
Net Income Margin (%)20.0%20.9%4.8%
P/E Multiple22.726.014.6%
Shares Outstanding (Mil)112113-0.3%
Cumulative Contribution25.1%

LTM = Last Twelve Months as of date shown

Market Drivers

1/31/2026 to 8/4/2026
ReturnCorrelation
CDP25.1% 
Market (SPY)11.8%8.1%
Sector (XLRE)9.8%51.6%

Fundamental Drivers

The 44.3% change in CDP stock from 7/31/2025 to 8/4/2026 was primarily driven by a 27.3% change in the company's P/E Multiple.
(LTM values as of)73120258042026Change
Stock Price ($)26.2037.8144.3%
Change Contribution By: 
Total Revenues ($ Mil)7507844.5%
Net Income Margin (%)19.2%20.9%8.9%
P/E Multiple20.426.027.3%
Shares Outstanding (Mil)112113-0.4%
Cumulative Contribution44.3%

LTM = Last Twelve Months as of date shown

Market Drivers

7/31/2025 to 8/4/2026
ReturnCorrelation
CDP44.3% 
Market (SPY)23.1%12.8%
Sector (XLRE)11.9%50.7%

Fundamental Drivers

The 65.6% change in CDP stock from 7/31/2023 to 8/4/2026 was primarily driven by a 95.4% change in the company's P/E Multiple.
(LTM values as of)73120238042026Change
Stock Price ($)22.8337.8165.6%
Change Contribution By: 
Total Revenues ($ Mil)71178410.3%
Net Income Margin (%)27.1%20.9%-22.6%
P/E Multiple13.326.095.4%
Shares Outstanding (Mil)112113-0.7%
Cumulative Contribution65.6%

LTM = Last Twelve Months as of date shown

Market Drivers

7/31/2023 to 8/4/2026
ReturnCorrelation
CDP65.6% 
Market (SPY)74.4%33.5%
Sector (XLRE)29.9%60.7%

Return vs. Risk

Price Returns Compared

 202120222023202420252026Total [1]
Returns
CDP Return12%-3%4%26%-6%38%82%
Peers Return22%-36%7%13%-18%20%-7%
S&P 500 Return27%-19%24%23%16%11%102%

Monthly Win Rates [3]
CDP Win Rate58%50%42%75%50%75% 
Peers Win Rate60%35%52%60%42%65% 
S&P 500 Win Rate75%42%67%75%67%50% 

Max Drawdowns [4]
CDP Max Drawdown-15%-22%-22%-13%-19%-6% 
Peers Max Drawdown-13%-44%-37%-19%-31%-21% 
S&P 500 Max Drawdown-5%-25%-10%-8%-19%-9% 


[1] Cumulative total returns since the beginning of 2021
[2] Peers: DEA, DLR, BXP, ARE, HIW.
[3] Win Rate = % of calendar months in which monthly returns were positive
[4] Max drawdown represents maximum peak-to-trough decline within a year
[5] 2026 data is for the year up to 8/4/2026 (YTD)

How Low Can It Go

EventCDPS&P 500
Summer-Fall 2023 Five Percent Yield Shock
  % Loss-10.7%-9.5%
  % Gain to Breakeven12.0%10.5%
  Time to Breakeven31 days24 days
2023 SVB Regional Banking Crisis
  % Loss-18.3%-6.7%
  % Gain to Breakeven22.4%7.1%
  Time to Breakeven125 days31 days
2022 Inflation Shock & Fed Tightening
  % Loss-18.7%-24.5%
  % Gain to Breakeven23.0%32.4%
  Time to Breakeven34 days427 days
2020 COVID-19 Crash
  % Loss-44.2%-33.7%
  % Gain to Breakeven79.3%50.9%
  Time to Breakeven396 days140 days
Q4 2018 Fed Policy Error / Growth Scare
  % Loss-30.0%-19.2%
  % Gain to Breakeven42.8%23.8%
  Time to Breakeven163 days105 days
2016-2017 Trump Reflation Bond Selloff
  % Loss-11.4%-3.7%
  % Gain to Breakeven12.9%3.9%
  Time to Breakeven18 days6 days

Compare to DEA, DLR, BXP, ARE, HIW

In The Past

COPT Defense Properties's stock fell -7.0% during the 2025 US Tariff Shock. Such a loss loss requires a 7.5% gain to breakeven.

Preserve Wealth

Limiting losses and compounding gains is essential to preserving wealth.

Asset Allocation

Actively managed asset allocation strategies protect wealth. Learn more.

EventCDPS&P 500
2020 COVID-19 Crash
  % Loss-44.2%-33.7%
  % Gain to Breakeven79.3%50.9%
  Time to Breakeven396 days140 days
Q4 2018 Fed Policy Error / Growth Scare
  % Loss-30.0%-19.2%
  % Gain to Breakeven42.8%23.8%
  Time to Breakeven163 days105 days
2014-2016 Oil Price Collapse
  % Loss-25.3%-6.8%
  % Gain to Breakeven33.9%7.3%
  Time to Breakeven207 days15 days
2013 Taper Tantrum
  % Loss-21.8%-0.2%
  % Gain to Breakeven27.8%0.2%
  Time to Breakeven126 days1 days
2011 US Debt Ceiling Crisis & European Contagion
  % Loss-34.7%-17.9%
  % Gain to Breakeven53.0%21.8%
  Time to Breakeven583 days123 days
2008-2009 Global Financial Crisis
  % Loss-32.5%-53.4%
  % Gain to Breakeven48.1%114.4%
  Time to Breakeven148 days1085 days

Compare to DEA, DLR, BXP, ARE, HIW

In The Past

COPT Defense Properties's stock fell -7.0% during the 2025 US Tariff Shock. Such a loss loss requires a 7.5% gain to breakeven.

Preserve Wealth

Limiting losses and compounding gains is essential to preserving wealth.

Asset Allocation

Actively managed asset allocation strategies protect wealth. Learn more.

About COPT Defense Properties (CDP)

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COPT Defense Properties (CDP) is a Real Estate Investment Trust (REIT) focused on owning, managing, leasing, and developing specialized office and data center properties. The company primarily provides critical real estate infrastructure for the United States Government and its contractors engaged in national security, defense, and information technology (IT) activities. This strategic focus targets what the company identifies as growing, durable, and priority missions within the defense and IT sectors.

The majority of COPT's business, accounting for 87% of its annualized rental revenue, comes from properties situated in "Defense/IT Locations." These locations are specifically chosen to support its government and contractor clientele. Complementing this core focus, the company also maintains a portfolio of Class-A office properties in select urban submarkets within the Greater Washington, DC/Baltimore region, which contribute the remaining 13% of its revenue.

As of December 31, 2020, COPT's extensive portfolio comprised 179 office and data center shell properties, encompassing 20.8 million square feet with a high occupancy rate of 95.0% leased. Additionally, the company owns a wholesale data center with a significant critical load, further solidifying its position in providing essential infrastructure for its specialized tenant base.

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AI Analysis | Feedback

Here are 1-3 brief analogies to describe COPT Defense Properties (CDP):

  • It's like the Lockheed Martin of real estate, providing essential facilities for national security and defense operations.
  • It's like Crown Castle (CCI) for secure government and defense office buildings and data centers.

AI Analysis | Feedback

  • Office Property Leasing: Leasing of office properties, primarily to tenants supporting U.S. Government and defense/IT missions, and also Class-A offices in the Greater Washington, DC/Baltimore region.
  • Data Center Property Leasing: Leasing of specialized data center shell properties and wholesale data center capacity to tenants.

AI Analysis | Feedback

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COPT Defense Properties (CDP) is a REIT that leases office and data center properties. Its major customers are its tenants, who fall into the following categories:

  • The United States Government.
  • United States Government contractors, predominantly those engaged in national security, defense, and information technology (IT) activities.
  • Companies leasing Class-A office space in select urban/urban-like submarkets within the Greater Washington, DC/Baltimore region.
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AI Analysis | Feedback

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AI Analysis | Feedback

Stephen E. Budorick, President & Chief Executive Officer

Stephen E. Budorick became President and Chief Executive Officer of COPT Defense Properties in May 2016, having previously served as Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer from September 2011. Prior to joining COPT Defense, he was Executive Vice President of asset management at Callahan Capital Partners, LLC, starting in 2006. His career also includes roles as Executive Vice President at Trizec Properties, Inc. (1997–2006) and Miglin Beitler Management Company (1991–1997), and in asset management at LaSalle Partners, Inc. (1988–1991). Mr. Budorick holds a B.S. in Industrial Engineering from the University of Illinois and an MBA in Finance from the University of Chicago.

Anthony Mifsud, Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer

Anthony Mifsud was appointed Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of COPT Defense Properties, effective April 1, 2015, as part of a planned succession. He joined the Company in September 2007 and served as Senior Vice President, Finance and Treasurer from January 2011. Before COPT Defense, he was Senior Vice President and Treasurer for Municipal Mortgage & Equity, where he led the corporate finance group. He also spent fifteen years at The Rouse Company in various corporate finance functions, including five years as Vice President, Finance, and previously practiced as a CPA at KPMG Peat Marwick.

Britt A. Snider, Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer

Britt A. Snider joined COPT Defense Properties in December 2023 as Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer. In this role, he oversees the company's operations, including asset management, leasing, property management, government services, and commercial development. Before joining COPT Defense, Mr. Snider was a Principal at Redbrick LMD, a real estate investment and development company, and prior to that, he served as Senior Vice President at WS Development.

David L. Finch, General Counsel, Corporate Secretary

David L. Finch serves as the General Counsel and Corporate Secretary for COPT Defense Properties. He was appointed General Counsel by December 2010 and Corporate Secretary by October 2016.

Matthew T. Myers, Senior Vice President, Chief Accounting Officer & Controller

Matthew T. Myers is the Senior Vice President, Chief Accounting Officer & Controller for COPT Defense Properties, a role he has held, along with previously serving as Comptroller/Controller/Auditor as of February 2023.

AI Analysis | Feedback

Here are the key risks to COPT Defense Properties (CDP):

Key Risks to COPT Defense Properties (CDP)

  1. Reliance on U.S. Government and Defense Spending & Tenant Concentration: COPT Defense Properties derives a significant majority of its rental revenue from properties supporting the U.S. Government and its contractors, with the U.S. Government itself being a major tenant. This specialization exposes the company to risks associated with fluctuations in defense spending, changes in government policy, and potential budgetary constraints or government shutdowns, which can delay leasing activities and renewals. Furthermore, a substantial portion of the company's revenue is concentrated among its top ten tenants, increasing exposure to credit risk if any of these major tenants face financial difficulties or choose not to renew leases.
  2. Interest Rate Risk and Debt Refinancing: As a real estate investment trust (REIT), COPT Defense Properties is sensitive to changes in interest rates. Rising interest rates can increase the cost of servicing its existing debt, particularly as lower-rate debt matures and needs to be refinanced. The company has a significant debt load, and its reliance on external capital to fund investments poses a risk if capital markets become unfavorable, impacting its financial flexibility and profitability.
  3. Leasing Challenges, Market Conditions, and Geographic Concentration: The company faces ongoing challenges in renewing leases and maintaining high occupancy rates across its portfolio, particularly concerning upcoming lease expirations. Broader adverse economic conditions, such as declining demand for office space, increased competition, or decreases in market rental rates, could negatively impact the value of its properties and financial performance. Additionally, COPT Defense Properties' concentration of properties in specific defense hubs and the Greater Washington, DC/Baltimore region heightens its sensitivity to regional economic and policy developments.

AI Analysis | Feedback

The following are clear emerging threats for COPT Defense Properties:

  • Increased Adoption of Remote and Hybrid Work Models: A significant shift towards remote and hybrid work arrangements among businesses and government agencies could reduce the overall demand for traditional office space. While COPT's portfolio is heavily concentrated in Defense/IT Locations with specialized requirements that may necessitate some in-office presence, a broader trend of companies optimizing their physical footprint could challenge future occupancy rates and rental growth for both its Defense/IT and Regional Office Properties.

  • Accelerated Migration to Cloud Computing Services: The ongoing trend of organizations, including government contractors, moving their IT infrastructure from dedicated or co-located data centers to public, private, or hybrid cloud environments poses a threat to the demand for traditional data center shell and wholesale data center properties that COPT owns. As more services and data reside in the cloud, the need for the physical data center space that COPT provides could diminish over time, despite the specialized security needs of its customer base.

AI Analysis | Feedback

COPT Defense Properties operates within the specialized real estate markets of office and data center properties, primarily serving the United States Government and its contractors, as well as Class-A office properties in the Greater Washington, DC/Baltimore region. Here are the estimated addressable market sizes for their main products and services: * U.S. Government Leased Office Space: The U.S. federal government leased approximately 149.49 million square feet of office space across the nation, with an annual rent of $5.25 billion as of January 2025. Specifically, the Washington D.C. metro area alone accounts for nearly 36 million square feet of GSA office space, generating $1.47 billion in annual rent. Another report from March 2024 indicated the federal government leased 176 million square feet of real estate, encompassing mostly office and industrial properties, throughout the United States. However, there is a trend of government downsizing, with an estimated 31.7 million square feet of federally leased office space projected to be canceled nationally in the coming years. The General Services Administration (GSA) also plans to sell 443 non-core properties, including office buildings, totaling approximately 80 million rentable square feet. * U.S. Data Center Market (including Government and Defense): The overall United States data center market was valued at an estimated USD 54.7 billion in 2025 and is projected to grow to USD 116.9 billion by 2034, exhibiting an 8.81% Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) from 2026-2034. Another estimate places the U.S. data center market at USD 41,837.6 million in 2025, expected to reach USD 108,673.6 million by 2032 with a CAGR of 14.6% from 2025 to 2032. The U.S. data center construction market alone is projected to increase from US$ 85.3 billion in 2026 to US$ 164.5 billion by 2033. More specifically for government and defense, the global government & defense AI data center market size was valued at US$ 12,505.4 million in 2025 and is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 22.8% from 2025 to 2033, with North America being the largest revenue-generating region in 2025. Data centers are crucial for government organizations for secure data storage, digital services, and e-governance compliance. Tier 4 data centers, which offer high reliability and advanced physical security, are anticipated to grow at a CAGR of 12.7%, serving critical government operations, among other sectors. * Greater Washington, DC/Baltimore Regional Office Market: The Washington, D.C. Metropolitan commercial real estate market, encompassing the District of Columbia, Northern Virginia, and Suburban Maryland, consisted of approximately 436.6 million square feet of rentable office space as of Q3 2025. The Washington, D.C. office market specifically (buildings over 25,000 square feet) held about 155.2 million square feet of rentable space as of August 2025. In Q3 2025, legal and government tenants represented 30% of all office transactions over 10,000 square feet in the Washington, D.C. market. The Baltimore office market experienced 145,000 square feet of positive net absorption in 2023.

AI Analysis | Feedback

COPT Defense Properties (CDP) is expected to drive future revenue growth over the next 2-3 years through several key strategies and market dynamics:
  • Increased U.S. Defense and IT Spending: A significant driver of revenue growth for COPT is the sustained and increasing U.S. defense budget. The company is strategically positioned with properties supporting priority Department of Defense (DOD) missions, federal agencies, and defense contractors. For instance, the FY 2026 Defense Budget, including additional allocations, is projected at $954 billion, creating a favorable environment for demand for COPT's specialized facilities. This increase in defense spending is anticipated to spur demand for specialized spaces like Secure Compartmented Information Facilities (SCIFs) and secure data centers.
  • Strategic Development and Acquisitions in Defense/IT Locations: COPT focuses on disciplined expansion through new developments and selective acquisitions within established Defense/IT corridors such as Fort Meade/MD, Northern Virginia, Huntsville/AL, and San Antonio/TX. These new developments are often pre-leased (e.g., 70-100% pre-leasing ahead of groundbreaking for projects through 2025–2027), which minimizes lease-up risk and underpins net annualized billing revenue expansion upon delivery. The company plans substantial new investments in 2026, committing $225-$275 million to new projects.
  • High Tenant Retention and Contractual Rent Escalators: The company consistently demonstrates strong tenant retention rates, particularly within its Defense/IT portfolio, which is projected to be between 75-85% for 2026 with a midpoint of 80%. This high retention rate ensures a stable revenue base. Additionally, COPT benefits from contractual rent escalators, typically around 2-3%, embedded in its long-term leases (often 7-12 years). These escalators contribute to consistent low-single-digit same-property cash net operating income (NOI) growth.
  • Expanding Secure Compute and Data Center Offerings: COPT is expanding its powered-shell and high-specification infrastructure in locations adjacent to defense hubs, near fiber routes and peering points. This expansion aims to serve the growing needs of government cloud, AI model training/inference, and cyber missions, capitalizing on the robust demand for data center capacity.

AI Analysis | Feedback

Capital Allocation Decisions (2021-2026)

Capital Expenditures

  • COPT Defense Properties has established capital spending guidance for 2026 at $200 million to $250 million for active and future projects, alongside $225 million to $275 million in new investment commitments.
  • In 2025, the company committed $278 million to new investments across five projects in four markets, with an 81% pre-leased rate. An additional $146 million capital commitment was made in January 2026 for a fully pre-leased development at National Business Park.
  • The primary focus of these capital expenditures is on build-to-suit projects and pre-leased developments within its Defense/IT portfolio to support tenant growth. The company has a self-funding capability of $275 million to $300 million annually for such developments.

Better Bets vs. COPT Defense Properties (CDP)

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Peer Comparisons

Peers to compare with:

Financials

CDPDEADLRBXPAREHIWMedian
NameCOPT Def.Easterly.Digital .BXP Alexandr.Highwood. 
Mkt Price37.8125.43193.8970.6748.8732.9843.34
Mkt Cap4.31.2274.611.28.33.66.3
Rev LTM7843576,7713,4892,7618361,798
Op Inc LTM238861,233993457215347
FCF LTM3182692,9671,1921,279384788
FCF 3Y Avg2971832,3631,2351,433386810
CFO LTM3372692,9671,1921,279384788
CFO 3Y Avg3211832,3631,2351,433386810

Growth & Margins

CDPDEADLRBXPAREHIWMedian
NameCOPT Def.Easterly.Digital .BXP Alexandr.Highwood. 
Rev Chg LTM4.5%13.0%17.4%1.6%-8.6%3.0%3.8%
Rev Chg 3Y Avg4.1%7.2%9.8%3.4%0.8%-0.1%3.8%
Rev Chg Q3.9%9.7%28.9%0.8%-12.8%7.9%5.9%
QoQ Delta Rev Chg LTM1.0%2.3%6.8%0.2%-3.3%1.9%1.4%
Op Inc Chg LTM6.6%3.2%46.5%-3.1%-29.3%5.3%4.2%
Op Inc Chg 3Y Avg9.1%9.1%22.6%-1.6%-8.9%-2.8%3.7%
Op Mgn LTM30.3%24.2%18.2%28.5%16.5%25.8%25.0%
Op Mgn 3Y Avg29.2%25.0%15.5%30.0%21.1%25.6%25.3%
QoQ Delta Op Mgn LTM0.2%-0.3%2.9%-0.7%-1.0%0.2%-0.1%
CFO/Rev LTM43.0%75.3%43.8%34.2%46.3%46.0%44.9%
CFO/Rev 3Y Avg42.6%55.8%39.0%36.2%49.1%46.7%44.6%
FCF/Rev LTM40.6%75.3%43.8%34.2%46.3%46.0%44.9%
FCF/Rev 3Y Avg39.3%55.8%39.0%36.2%49.1%46.7%43.0%

Valuation

CDPDEADLRBXPAREHIWMedian
NameCOPT Def.Easterly.Digital .BXP Alexandr.Highwood. 
Mkt Cap4.31.2274.611.28.33.66.3
P/S5.43.340.63.23.04.43.8
P/Op Inc18.013.7222.811.318.316.917.4
P/EBIT16.113.4210.610.5-14.310.912.1
P/E26.0115.6343.735.3-8.121.630.7
P/CFO12.64.492.69.46.59.59.4
Total Yield7.1%8.2%0.9%8.1%-3.9%10.7%7.6%
Dividend Yield3.3%7.3%0.6%5.3%8.4%6.0%5.7%
FCF Yield 3Y Avg9.0%16.1%2.9%12.0%11.2%12.4%11.6%
D/E0.61.40.11.51.61.01.2
Net D/E0.61.40.11.41.50.91.2

Returns

CDPDEADLRBXPAREHIWMedian
NameCOPT Def.Easterly.Digital .BXP Alexandr.Highwood. 
1M Rtn0.4%-0.4%11.9%1.9%-7.1%3.5%1.2%
3M Rtn23.2%11.5%-0.8%22.0%13.0%34.0%17.5%
6M Rtn24.1%13.4%19.5%15.3%-6.6%34.4%17.4%
12M Rtn41.3%23.7%15.4%12.3%-32.8%25.0%19.5%
3Y Rtn65.5%-9.3%77.4%21.1%-52.5%68.4%43.3%
1M Excs Rtn-1.7%-1.2%9.0%-1.6%-4.6%0.5%-1.4%
3M Excs Rtn17.1%5.4%-9.1%14.5%12.9%30.1%13.7%
6M Excs Rtn14.5%3.9%8.1%3.9%-18.0%25.2%6.0%
12M Excs Rtn20.3%2.3%-8.2%-9.8%-55.8%0.3%-3.9%
3Y Excs Rtn-3.2%-79.3%4.5%-43.0%-123.5%-4.1%-23.5%

Financials

Segment Financials

Revenue by Segment
$ Mil20252024202320222021
Fort Meade/Baltimore/Washington (BW) Corridor330314290274 
Northern Virginia Defense/ information technology (NoVA Defense/IT)91868074 
Other7570726970
Redstone Arsenal75695539 
Lackland Air Force Base73686763 
Data Center Shells45372736 
Construction contract and other service revenues427660155108
Navy Support34333333 
Revenues from discontinued operations   -2-30
Defense/IT Portfolio    487
Wholesale Data Center    30
Total764753685739664


Assets by Segment
$ Mil20252024202320222021
Fort Meade/Baltimore/Washington (BW) Corridor1,4681,4491,4501,388 
Redstone Arsenal615601555454 
Data Center Shells577488430461 
Northern Virginia Defense/ information technology (NoVA Defense/IT)522495490488 
Other assets476213   
Other324315309554541
Non-operating property assets284277   
Lackland Air Force Base194199189194 
Navy Support172163164169 
Operating properties lease liabilities included in segment assets4550   
Investment in unconsolidated real estate joint ventures (UJV) deficit balance included in segment233   
Defense/IT Portfolio    2,842
Wholesale Data Center    193
Total4,7024,2543,5873,7083,575


Price Behavior

Price Behavior
Market Price$37.81 
Market Cap ($ Bil)4.3 
First Trading Date12/29/2006 
Distance from 52W High-1.4% 
   50 Days200 Days
DMA Price$35.26$31.23
DMA Trendupup
Distance from DMA7.2%21.1%
 3M1YR
Volatility19.1%18.4%
Downside Capture-68.94-9.22
Upside Capture32.8632.15
Correlation (SPY)-10.3%12.8%
CDP Betas & Captures as of 7/31/2026

 1M2M3M6M1Y3Y
Beta0.08-0.19-0.110.110.190.45
Up Beta-0.28-0.45-0.080.050.300.38
Down Beta0.370.03-0.100.180.230.43
Up Capture41%40%37%32%26%26%
Bmk +ve Days11223567138427
Stock +ve Days12294071132385
Down Capture-24%-83%-70%-21%-12%73%
Bmk -ve Days11212859114326
Stock -ve Days10142355117357

[1] Upside and downside betas calculated using positive and negative benchmark daily returns respectively
Based On 1-Year Data
Annualized
Return
Annualized
Volatility
Sharpe
Ratio
Correlation
with CDP
CDP44.5%18.4%1.85-
Sector ETF (XLRE)12.2%14.1%0.5950.7%
Equity (SPY)25.2%12.9%1.4712.8%
Gold (GLD)21.1%28.1%0.67-1.8%
Commodities (DBC)28.3%19.8%1.14-19.6%
Real Estate (VNQ)15.6%13.8%0.8156.3%
Bitcoin (BTCUSD)-44.2%43.0%-1.233.1%

Smart multi-asset allocation framework can stack odds in your favor. Learn How
Based On 5-Year Data
Annualized
Return
Annualized
Volatility
Sharpe
Ratio
Correlation
with CDP
CDP9.5%23.0%0.35-
Sector ETF (XLRE)2.6%19.1%0.0463.4%
Equity (SPY)13.4%17.2%0.6042.0%
Gold (GLD)17.3%18.5%0.7610.3%
Commodities (DBC)8.1%19.6%0.3110.2%
Real Estate (VNQ)2.4%18.9%0.0267.8%
Bitcoin (BTCUSD)10.0%53.0%0.3820.2%

Smart multi-asset allocation framework can stack odds in your favor. Learn How
Based On 10-Year Data
Annualized
Return
Annualized
Volatility
Sharpe
Ratio
Correlation
with CDP
CDP6.9%26.3%0.28-
Sector ETF (XLRE)6.2%20.4%0.2669.6%
Equity (SPY)15.4%17.9%0.7352.0%
Gold (GLD)11.6%16.1%0.5810.2%
Commodities (DBC)7.0%18.0%0.3119.8%
Real Estate (VNQ)4.8%20.7%0.2074.5%
Bitcoin (BTCUSD)58.0%66.2%0.9813.2%

Smart multi-asset allocation framework can stack odds in your favor. Learn How

Short Interest

Short Interest: As Of Date7152026
Short Interest: Shares Quantity6.9 Mil
Short Interest: % Change Since 6302026-2.6%
Average Daily Volume0.9 Mil
Days-to-Cover Short Interest7.6 days
Basic Shares Quantity112.9 Mil
Short % of Basic Shares6.1%

Earnings Returns History

Updated 8/5/2026
Expand for More
 Forward Returns
Earnings Date1D Returns5D Returns21D Returns
7/27/2026-0.1%-1.9% 
4/27/2026-0.7%-5.2%0.0%
2/5/20261.4%-0.7%1.3%
10/30/20253.1%5.7%10.8%
7/28/2025-1.3%-0.3%2.2%
4/28/2025-4.2%-1.8%2.7%
2/6/2025-0.8%-6.3%-8.7%
10/28/2024-0.2%-0.3%0.4%
...
SUMMARY STATS   
# Positive121014
# Negative12149
Median Positive2.7%4.3%3.3%
Median Negative-1.2%-1.8%-3.6%
Max Positive3.4%9.2%21.3%
Max Negative-4.2%-6.3%-8.7%
Collapse to Preview
 Forward Returns
Earnings Date1D Returns5D Returns21D Returns
7/27/2026-0.1%-1.9% 
4/27/2026-0.7%-5.2%0.0%
2/5/20261.4%-0.7%1.3%
10/30/20253.1%5.7%10.8%
7/28/2025-1.3%-0.3%2.2%
4/28/2025-4.2%-1.8%2.7%
2/6/2025-0.8%-6.3%-8.7%
10/28/2024-0.2%-0.3%0.4%
7/29/20242.9%-0.2%3.5%
4/25/20243.4%7.3%5.3%
2/8/20242.2%5.2%5.2%
10/26/2023-2.2%0.8%3.0%
7/27/20231.0%-0.2%-2.5%
4/27/20233.0%9.2%0.4%
2/9/20231.2%0.5%-6.0%
10/27/20223.3%2.2%6.7%
7/28/20222.9%-2.9%-3.6%
4/28/2022-3.5%-4.3%-1.0%
2/10/20222.5%3.5%12.5%
10/28/2021-1.5%0.7%-6.8%
7/29/2021-1.1%-4.3%-4.3%
4/29/2021-0.4%-1.2%-1.9%
2/4/2021-1.9%-2.7%-0.7%
10/29/20202.2%8.2%21.3%
SUMMARY STATS   
# Positive121014
# Negative12149
Median Positive2.7%4.3%3.3%
Median Negative-1.2%-1.8%-3.6%
Max Positive3.4%9.2%21.3%
Max Negative-4.2%-6.3%-8.7%

SEC Filings

Expand for More
Report DateFiling DateFiling
06/30/202608/03/202610-Q
03/31/202605/06/202610-Q
12/31/202502/20/202610-K
09/30/202511/04/202510-Q
06/30/202507/31/202510-Q
03/31/202505/01/202510-Q
12/31/202402/21/202510-K
09/30/202411/04/202410-Q
06/30/202408/01/202410-Q
03/31/202405/01/202410-Q
12/31/202302/22/202410-K
09/30/202311/03/202310-Q
06/30/202308/02/202310-Q
03/31/202305/03/202310-Q
12/31/202202/24/202310-K
09/30/202211/01/202210-Q
Collapse to Preview
Report DateFiling DateFiling
06/30/202608/03/202610-Q
03/31/202605/06/202610-Q
12/31/202502/20/202610-K
09/30/202511/04/202510-Q
06/30/202507/31/202510-Q
03/31/202505/01/202510-Q
12/31/202402/21/202510-K
09/30/202411/04/202410-Q
06/30/202408/01/202410-Q
03/31/202405/01/202410-Q
12/31/202302/22/202410-K
09/30/202311/03/202310-Q
06/30/202308/02/202310-Q
03/31/202305/03/202310-Q
12/31/202202/24/202310-K
09/30/202211/01/202210-Q
06/30/202208/02/202210-Q
03/31/202205/09/202210-Q
12/31/202102/22/202210-K
09/30/202111/01/202110-Q
06/30/202107/30/202110-Q
03/31/202105/03/202110-Q
12/31/202002/12/202110-K
09/30/202010/30/202010-Q
06/30/202007/31/202010-Q
03/31/202005/08/202010-Q
12/31/201902/19/202010-K
09/30/201911/01/201910-Q

Recent Forward Guidance

Updated 7/28/2026

Latest: Q2 2026 Earnings Reported 7/27/2026

Forward GuidanceGuidance Change
MetricLowMidHigh% Chg% DeltaChangePrior
Q3 2026 Diluted EPS0.370.380.3918.8% Higher NewActual: 0.32 for Q2 2026
Q3 2026 Diluted FFOPS0.680.690.70.0% Same NewActual: 0.69 for Q2 2026
2026 Diluted EPS1.391.411.4311.0% RaisedGuidance: 1.27 for 2026
2026 Diluted FFOPS2.762.782.80.7% RaisedGuidance: 2.76 for 2026
2026 Same Property Cash NOI Growth 4.0% 33.3%1.0%RaisedGuidance: 3.0% for 2026
2026 Capital Commitment to New Investments 335.00 Mil 15.5% RaisedGuidance: 290.00 Mil for 2026
2026 Vacancy Leasing Target 0.47 Mil    

Prior: Q1 2026 Earnings Reported 4/27/2026

Forward GuidanceGuidance Change
MetricLowMidHigh% Chg% DeltaChangePrior
Q2 2026 Diluted EPS0.310.320.33   
Q2 2026 Diluted FFOPS0.680.690.7   
2026 Diluted EPS1.241.271.3  RaisedGuidance: 1.25 for 2026
2026 Diluted FFOPS2.732.762.79  RaisedGuidance: 2.75 for 2026
2026 Same Property Cash NOI 0.03  0.5%RaisedGuidance: 0.03 for 2026
2026 Tenant Retention 0.82  2.5%RaisedGuidance: 0.8 for 2026
2026 Investment Activity 290.00 Mil   RaisedGuidance: 250.00 Mil for 2026

Q4 2025 Earnings Reported 2/5/2026

Forward GuidanceGuidance Change
MetricLowMidHigh% Chg% DeltaChangePrior
2026 FFO per share growth 1.1%    
2026 Anticipated Total Cost of Development Projects 447.67 Mil    
2026 Annualized Rental Revenue of Expiring Leases 138.14 Mil    
2027 Annualized Rental Revenue of Expiring Leases 59.13 Mil    
2028 Annualized Rental Revenue of Expiring Leases 102.90 Mil    
2029 Annualized Rental Revenue of Expiring Leases 84.99 Mil    
2030 Annualized Rental Revenue of Expiring Leases 49.25 Mil    

Q3 2025 Earnings Reported 10/30/2025

Forward GuidanceGuidance Change
MetricLowMidHigh% Chg% DeltaChangePrior
Q4 2025 Diluted EPS0.320.330.340 Same NewGuidance: 0.33 for Q3 2025
Q4 2025 Diluted FFOPS0.670.680.691.5% Higher NewGuidance: 0.67 for Q3 2025
2025 Diluted EPS1.351.361.373.0% RaisedGuidance: 1.32 for 2025
2025 Diluted FFOPS2.692.72.711.1% RaisedGuidance: 2.67 for 2025

Insider Activity

Updated 7/30/2026
Expand for More
#OwnerTitleHoldingActionFiling DatePriceSharesTransacted
Value
Value of
Held Shares
Form
1Pickett, C TaylorDirectSell602202632.2531,7981,025,581489,859Form
2Denton, Robert LDirectSell528202632.383,922126,994123,141Form
3Hawkins, Philip LDirectSell224202632.715,536181,100496,848Form
4Trimberger, Lisa GDirectSell918202530.724,896150,405623,217Form
5Trimberger, Lisa GSee footnoteSell918202530.523,000  Form
Collapse to Preview
#OwnerTitleHoldingActionFiling DatePriceSharesTransacted
Value
Value of
Held Shares
Form
1Pickett, C TaylorDirectSell602202632.2531,7981,025,581489,859Form
2Denton, Robert LDirectSell528202632.383,922126,994123,141Form
3Hawkins, Philip LDirectSell224202632.715,536181,100496,848Form
4Trimberger, Lisa GDirectSell918202530.724,896150,405623,217Form
5Trimberger, Lisa GSee footnoteSell918202530.523,000  Form

Investor Activity (13F)

Updated Aug 5, 2026
13F holdings as of Mar 31, 2026 (Q1 2026)

Active managers (13F portfolio over $250M, at least 3 holdings) with a position over $5M that is either over 10% of their portfolio or held in a concentrated book of 50 or fewer total positions. Index/ETF, sovereign, bank, community-bank and charitable/donor-advised filers are excluded.

Active ManagerValue% of PortfolioTotal PositionsQoQFiling
GRS Advisors, LLC$50.5 Mil5.0%32ADD +58.3%13F
Alpha Wave Global, LP$12.7 Mil1.6%20New13F
Active ManagerValue% of PortfolioTotal PositionsQoQFiling
Alpha Wave Global, LP$12.7 Mil1.6%20New13F
GRS Advisors, LLC$50.5 Mil5.0%32ADD +58.3%13F
Active ManagerValue% of PortfolioTotal PositionsQoQFiling
Lasalle Investment Management Securities LLC$5.2 Mil0.2%48Exited13F
Active ManagerValue% of PortfolioTotal PositionsQoQFiling
GRS Advisors, LLC$50.5 Mil5.0%32ADD +58.3%13F
Alpha Wave Global, LP$12.7 Mil1.6%20New13F
Core Cache Last Updated: 8/4/2026