Which company is better? JOBY or Archer?

Both Joby Aviation and Archer Aviation have their strengths and weaknesses, and the answer to which one is "better" depends on various factors. Here's a comparison based on the information provided:

1. **Industry Position**:
- **Joby Aviation** is a California-based company that is developing an all-electric, vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft for urban air mobility.
- **Archer Aviation** is an American company that is also focused on eVTOL technology and has engineered the Midnight, an eVTOL aircraft designed for short-haul transportation.
2. **Certification Progress**:
- **Joby Aviation** has made significant progress in the FAA certification process, with the fourth of five stages of type certification already complete. This could be a strong advantage in terms of timely commercial production.
- **Archer Aviation** is in the final stages of certifying its Midnight aircraft with the FAA. While it has not reached the same level of certification as Joby, Archer's partnership with Stellantis and United Airlines suggests strong industry support.
3. **Financial Stability**:
- **Joby Aviation** has a strong balance sheet with $825 million in cash and short-term investments as of the second quarter of 2024. This financial strength could support continued investment in production and commercial operations.
- **Archer Aviation** has secured significant funding as well, including a recent $230 million capital raise and a commitment from Stellantis to contribute up to $400 million to help scale production. Archer's financial position is therefore also robust.
4. **Strategic Partnerships**:
- **Joby Aviation** has partnered with major companies like Toyota and All Nippon Airlines, which could provide access to new markets and support for commercial operations.
- **Archer Aviation** has partnerships with United Airlines and the U.S. Air Force, among others. These collaborations could provide valuable insights and support for commercialization.
5. **Production and Manufacturing**:
- **Joby Aviation** has rolled its third production prototype aircraft off the line, indicating a steady progression towards commercial production.
- **Archer Aviation** is developing a high-volume manufacturing facility in Covington, Georgia, which is on track to open by the end of 2024 and will support production of up to 650 Midnight aircraft annually.

In conclusion, both companies have strong positions in the eVTOL space, with significant progress towards commercial production. Joby's stronger certification progress and strategic partnerships may give it an edge in terms of timely commercialization. However, Archer's financial stability and manufacturing facility suggest it is well-positioned to scale production. Ultimately, the decision between the two may come down to factors such as personal investment strategy, risk tolerance, and long-term growth potential in the eVTOL sector.