Baird Lowers Tesla (TSLA) to Hold, Citing Valuation and Robotaxi Risk

Tesla Inc. (NASDAQ:TSLA) is one of the 10 best tech stocks to buy according to billionaires right now. On June 9, Ben Kallo of Robert W. Baird downgraded Tesla from Buy to Hold mainly on valuation concerns, while keeping his price target unchanged at $320.

In his view, much of the recent upside in the stock, up over 20% since Q1 earnings, has already factored in the excitement around Tesla’s planned robotaxi service and the prospect of a lower-cost electric vehicle.

Baird Lowers Tesla (TSLA) to Hold, Citing Valuation and Robotaxi Risk

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Kallo cited two key areas of concern behind the downgrade. First, he flagged elevated market expectations ahead of Tesla’s upcoming robotaxi event, which he believes could be difficult to meet. Second, he raised questions around “key-man” risk, pointing to ongoing uncertainty tied to CEO Elon Musk’s central role in the company’s strategic direction.

While Musk has resigned from the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), it may still take time for him to recoup investor confidence.

While Kallo still considers Tesla a core long-term holding, he expressed skepticism about the near-term ramp-up of the robotaxi program, describing current projections as potentially too ambitious. He also noted that Elon Musk’s political affiliations, particularly his perceived alignment with former President Trump, could introduce additional headline and regulatory risk moving forward.

Tesla Inc. (NASDAQ:TSLA) is an EV manufacturer and clean energy company known for its innovative approach to sustainable transportation and energy solutions. It designs, manufactures, and sells electric vehicles, battery energy storage systems, solar products, and related services. It currently manufactures five different consumer vehicles: the Model 3, Y, S, X, and the Cybertruck.

While we acknowledge the potential of TSLA as an investment, we believe certain AI stocks offer greater upside potential and carry less downside risk. If you’re looking for an extremely undervalued AI stock that also stands to benefit significantly from Trump-era tariffs and the onshoring trend, see our free report on the best short-term AI stock.

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Disclosure: None.