Ford Motor Company (NYSE:F) is facing some tough challenges, and CEO Jim Farley is feeling the pressure. During the latest earnings report and Q2 conference call, Farley had to revise the production targets for Electric Vehicles (EVs) and admitted that EV sales have been disappointing.
One of the main issues is the delay in achieving the production target. I read in an article that reported that the automaker now expects a 600,000 run rate for 2024, which was initially supposed to happen this year. This was something that analysts had predicted, given the magnitude of Ford’s corporate restructuring and the complexities involved in entering the EV market.
The situation is not made any easier by the fact that Ford is in negotiations with the United Auto Workers Union (UAW). If there were to be a strike, it could disrupt Ford’s aggressive plans for the future, especially since the UAW currently holds significant bargaining power.
Despite these challenges, Farley is sticking to the company’s 8% margin targets. But some experts, like the lead Analyst covering Ford’s investor day, are skeptical about this ambitious goal, given the current headwinds the company is facing. Recent events, such as a major recall of F-150 pickup trucks due to a faulty parking brake, may add further pressure to Ford’s bottom line.
Ford’s stock has seen a rapid rise, which raises concerns about the sustainability of these gains. The expert advises caution, as a rapid rise in stock value is often followed by a quick decline. The competitive landscape in the EV market is driving down prices, making it difficult for companies like Ford to maintain profitability.
Many experts’ analysis leads to a pessimistic outlook for Ford’s stock, predicting a 17% downside with a 12-month price target of $11. They believe that Ford may have taken on more than it can handle and that Farley’s 8% margin target could be at risk. With the uncertain future and intense competition in the EV market, the expert advises against investing in Ford stock for now.
Ford is facing a challenging situation with its EV production targets, UAW negotiations, and intense competition in the market. Investors should be cautious and closely monitor developments before considering any investments in Ford stock.
