Tesla's stock decline today can be attributed to a combination of factors:
- Trump-Musk Tensions: The public spat between CEO Elon Musk and President Trump has taken a toll on Tesla's stock. Musk's criticism of the Trump-backed budget reconciliation bill and his denial of knowledge about a controversial bill have led to tensions. Trump's disappointment in Musk's recent attacks and Musk's increasing stance against the bill suggest a rift in their relationship, which could negatively impact investor confidence12.
- Weak Sales in Key Markets: Tesla has faced disappointing sales in key markets like Europe and China. In May, sales of China-made EVs declined for the eighth consecutive month due to price wars. This decline, along with weak sales in Europe, could indicate challenges in maintaining market share and growth4.
- Institutional Investor Movements: LS Investment Advisors LLC boosted its holdings in Tesla by 130.2% during the first quarter, owning 1,335 shares. This increase in institutional holdings could signal confidence in Tesla's long-term prospects. However, the stock's recent decline may not be solely attributed to institutional actions, as the percentage of institutional ownership is not overwhelmingly large5.
In summary, Tesla's stock decline today is likely a result of a combination of factors including Trump-Musk tensions, weak sales in key markets, and institutional investor movements.