Things might get a bit rocky for Tesla, according to CEO Elon Musk. In its latest quarterly report, the company faced its largest drop in revenue in ten years, falling short of Wall Street’s already low expectations. This led to a more than 4% drop in Tesla’s stock after hours.
Here are the key points from the earnings call and what analysts are saying:
1. Expect a bumpy ride ahead
Musk warned that Tesla is entering a “weird transition period.” He mentioned that challenges like shifting tariffs and changing political climates could lead to a few tough quarters. However, he believes that by the end of next year, Tesla will be in a strong economic position. Thomas Monteiro, a senior analyst at Investing.com, echoed this sentiment, suggesting that there are reasons for optimism as Tesla seeks growth in markets like India and China.
2. A cautious rollout for robotaxis
During the call, Tesla shared updates about its robotaxi service, currently being tested in the San Francisco Bay Area and other cities. The company plans to include a driver during these early stages to speed up the process while awaiting regulatory approval. This approach resembles the beginnings of Waymo’s self-driving service. Musk mentioned plans to expand robotaxi services soon, alongside a futuristic model called the Cybercab, expected to be on the road by 2026.
3. A more affordable Tesla on the way
Musk confirmed that a new, cheaper Tesla model is in the works. Set to resemble the Model Y, it could be available by the end of 2025. Initially proposed back in 2020, this more budget-friendly electric vehicle has been highly anticipated by fans and potential buyers alike.
4. Musk’s concerns about shareholder control
Musk expressed worries about losing control over Tesla, especially if share prices keep declining. He thinks he maintains enough influence to steer the company positively but acknowledges the risk of being ousted. This concern isn’t new; he’s previously remarked on the need for a balance of control amidst criticism regarding his involvement in various roles and public campaigns.
5. Limited discussion on xAI
When asked about investments in his other company, xAI, Tesla’s CFO, Vaibhav Taneja, kept things vague. Musk encouraged shareholders to bring up any proposals they might have, even as he plans to consider xAI investment options for a shareholder vote in November. Critics suggest that Musk’s involvement with xAI, alongside his Tesla responsibilities, adds complications to the company’s governance.
Overall, while Tesla faces challenges, there are glimmers of hope for recovery and innovation. The upcoming months will be crucial as the company navigates its transition and market perceptions. In a recent survey, 64% of investors expressed a desire for clearer focus on Tesla’s core automotive business rather than Musk’s other ventures.
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