TSLA
Tesla (TSLA) shares have declined following news that the automaker's extensive job cuts will impact its major markets, the US and China. The layoffs, affecting the sales and engineering divisions, coincide with the departure of two senior executives, Drew Baglino and Rohan Patel. Additionally, some analysts have reduced TSLA's price targets. What should you know about TSLA stock right now?
Technical Analysis
Tesla, Inc. (TSLA) exhibited a significant downturn with a last close at $161.48, marking a 5.59% decrease. It is now hovering near its yearly low ($152.37), with resistance located at $164.9 and no defined support level. This decline is underscored by the stock trading well below its 50-day moving average of $181.85 and 200-day moving average of $227.81, suggesting a long-term bearish trend.
Tesla's RSI stands at 41, pointing to mild bearish momentum without oversold conditions. The MACD at -1.89 further emphasizes the bearish attitude prevailing in the market sentiment over the past three months. The ATR (4.82) indicates recent heightened volatility, common during large price swings and market uncertainties.
Based on technical indicators, Tesla's immediate outlook appears restrained, and there might be more downside should it break below the short-term resistance at $164.9.
Fundamental Analysis
Tesla’s struggles are multidimensional, ranging from senior staff exits to operational challenges amid weak demand from major markets like China. The recent executive departure was described as a "gut punch" to investor confidence, and the layoffs, imply potential internal and structural challenges that could impact immediate operations and profitability.
Despite these headwinds, Tesla is holding a PE ratio of 37.64, which is lofty compared to some industrial norms, signaling higher growth expectations from the market. This might reflect its robust past performance and significant technological and market leadership positions in the electric vehicle industry. However, the EPS of $4.29 appears inconsistent with the aggressive stock pricing, especially in the context of recent adverse developments.
The Q1 2024 performance, with a decline in deliveries, sets a cautious tone leading up to the earnings report on April 23, 2024. Investors might be bracing for potentially weaker financial results.
Analysts’ predictions provide a broad target range, from as low as $85 to a peak of $526.67, with a consensus target of $242.27. This disparity illustrates divergent views on Tesla's future, though the consensus leans more toward optimism.
TSLA Stock Potential
The DCF valuation at $62.16 is significantly below the current market price, suggesting overvaluation based on future cash flow projections. This discrepancy might be linked to current negative sentiments and operational challenges overshadowing Tesla's underlying value derived from its innovative capabilities and market share in electric vehicles.
For long-term investors, the stock presents a tricky outlook; while Tesla's growth narrative and industry innovation are compelling, the short-term risks tied to operational and market challenges could compel a reevaluation of its justified market premium.
Market Performance Prediction
For the next trading day and upcoming week, the stock might face continued pressure if no positive catalysts emerge. The overarching negative market sentiment, driven by recent downbeat news and disappointing delivery data, might overpower any significant recovery attempts short term.
Given the current data and market conditions, Tesla, Inc. would be categorized as a 'Hold.' The decision straddles cautiously optimistic long-term growth prospects against present operational uncertainties and market sentiment. While the innovation-led growth story is appealing, recent executive upheavals and market challenges suggest it’s prudent to await clear signs of stabilization or strategic reassurance from upcoming earnings data and management commentary before altering positions.
