Textron Inc. (NYSE:TXT) is one of the best stocks to buy according to billionaire Mario Gabelli.
Textron Inc. (NYSE:TXT) is one of the companies in GAMCO Investors’ portfolio where the hedge fund has actually increased its stake from its position from more than a decade ago. As of the end of Q4 2025, GAMCO had 1.38 million shares valued at $120.4 million, making up nearly 1.2% of the 13F portfolio. Interestingly, this is above the 988,000 shares it had at the end of 2012, but below the peak of 2.7 million in mid-2018.
In its September 2025 quarterly commentary, Mario Gabelli described Textron Inc. (NYSE:TXT) as a company operating in a near-duopoly in the light and medium business jet markets, with strong operations and efficient product development. Gabelli also highlighted Bell’s helicopter and military aircraft programs, and noted that the V-280 opportunity could become a very large multi-decade program. Supporting the investment case, he had argued:
The business jet market, post COVID-19, has benefited as individuals and businesses seek a more private mode of air travel. In its Bell business, Textron is introducing new commercial helicopters and has won the U.S. Army’s contract to replace the UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter with its tiltrotor aircraft, the V-280, which could be a $100B plus multi-decade program. Textron’s track record of improving operations and gaining share should enhance its competitive position. Longer-term, we would not rule out Textron merging its aerospace and defense core with a larger defense company.
The call has worked well since the end of Q3 2025, with the stock rising around 11% through March 9, 2026. It continued its strong run in 2026, with 8% YTD returns, outperforming the broader S&P 500.
In a noticeable insider trade, Textron Executive Chairman Scott Donnelly exercised and sold 219,619 shares tied to a stock option award, according to an SEC filing dated February 18, 2026. Mr. Scott exercised 219,619 stock options at $49.58 on February 13, 2026, and then sold those shares the same day in multiple trades.
Textron Inc. is a diversified aerospace and defense company that operates a global network of aircraft, defense, industrial, and finance businesses. The company is known worldwide for its powerful brands, including Bell, Cessna, Beechcraft, Pipistrel, Jacobsen, Kautex, Lycoming, E-Z-GO, and Textron Systems.
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