Following Donald Trump’s election victory over Kamala Harris, Tesla shares surged by 15% in premarket trading on Wednesday.
Elon Musk, Tesla’s CEO, has been a vocal Trump supporter throughout the campaign, even suggesting that he could play a role in Trump’s administration.
Trump’s policies, perceived as business-friendly, have ignited investor optimism for Tesla, despite his mixed record on clean energy.
Trump has hinted at a potential government role for Musk, aligning the tech CEO’s ambitions with Trump’s vision for reduced government spending.
This prospect of Musk heading a commission focused on government efficiency has sparked excitement, as investors speculate on the potential benefits for Tesla and Musk’s broader business ventures.
Trump hints at Musk’s role in government
Trump’s presidency brings questions regarding the future of subsidies for electric vehicles (EVs), which have been integral to Tesla’s growth.
Although Trump’s stance on clean energy remains lukewarm, his pro-business approach could lead to policies that benefit Tesla’s operations.
Market analysts, including Susannah Streeter from Hargreaves Lansdown, predict that Trump will seek to keep Musk onside, especially if Musk accepts an advisory role within the administration.
Musk’s influence could shape policies that, while perhaps less green-focused, might support the EV market in unexpected ways.
Throughout the election, Musk not only publicly endorsed Trump but also made notable financial contributions to his campaign, further cementing his commitment.
Trump’s business-focused policies have been well-received by investors hoping for an environment conducive to Tesla’s growth, despite some hesitancy over Trump’s prior stance on renewable energy.
The market rally around Tesla’s stock reflects this optimism, as investors position themselves for potential policy shifts that could prioritise US business interests.
On Tuesday, Tesla shares saw a 3.5% rise during regular trading hours, marking a shift after a six-day decline.
Even with this rebound, Tesla’s stock performance for 2024 has lagged behind major indices, with the S&P 500 showing a 21.2% increase year-to-date, while Tesla’s stock recorded only a 1.2% rise by Tuesday’s close.
This pre-election rally, followed by post-election gains, highlights investor expectations of a favourable policy environment under Trump’s administration.
Trump and Musk promise fiscal discipline
At a campaign event held at Madison Square Garden, Trump announced his intent to appoint Musk as the head of a proposed government efficiency commission, a move aimed at tackling federal budget concerns.
Musk enthusiastically endorsed the role, stating he could help cut up to $2 trillion in government spending by targeting inefficiencies.
In his address to the crowd, Musk declared his commitment to “getting the government off your back and out of your pocketbook,” reinforcing his belief in a leaner, business-friendly federal structure.
Trump’s victory has spurred optimism within the investor community, especially among those holding Tesla shares.
Although Trump’s clean energy policies may lack the vigour of previous administrations, his apparent willingness to engage industry leaders like Musk suggests a potential shift towards pro-business initiatives.
Investors view Musk’s possible role within the Trump administration as an opportunity for Tesla to capitalise on a favourable regulatory environment, despite uncertainties surrounding EV subsidies.
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