Why Tesla stock just skyrocketed

Why is Donald Trump's election victory powering explosive gains for Tesla stock?

| More on:
Smiling man at the wheel of a car.

Image source: Getty Images

You’re reading a free article with opinions that may differ from The Motley Fool’s Premium Investing Services. Become a Motley Fool member today to get instant access to our top analyst recommendations, in-depth research, investing resources, and more. Learn More

This article was originally published on Fool.com. All figures quoted in US dollars unless otherwise stated.

Tesla (NASDAQ: TSLA) stock is making big gains in Wednesday's trading. The electric-vehicle (EV) company's share price was up 22.8% as of 12:30 p.m. ET. Meanwhile, the S&P 500 index was up 2.1%, and the Nasdaq Composite index was up 2.4%.

Tesla stock is surging following Donald Trump's victory in the 2024 presidential election. The Republican candidate outperformed most expectations, winning the national popular vote in addition to a decisive win in the electoral college.

Why Tesla stock surged on Trump's election victory

While there isn't any fresh business-specific news for the EV leader today, CEO Elon Musk was an active supporter and campaigner for Trump in the election -- and some analysts think that the Republican's victory in the race will open opportunities for Musk's company. Musk campaigned for Trump and celebrated the victory with the Republican last night. He's also indicated that he could have a role in the new presidential administration.

In response to election results, Wedbush published a bullish note on Tesla stock. Ahead of the market opening today, the firm's analysts anticipated a strong bullish momentum for Tesla's share price in the day's trading and also highlighted the potential for longer-lasting positive catalysts for the company.

What comes next for Tesla?

As noted in Wedbush's bullish, election-related note on Tesla, it's possible that new tariffs implemented by the incoming Trump administration could have some beneficial impacts for the business. While the costs for some parts could increase, tariffs could have the effect of making it harder for Chinese EVs to gain market share.

Notably, Wedbush said that Trump's presidency could be a net negative for the broader EV industry. The firm's analysts expect that EV rebates and tax incentives could be rescinded under the incoming administration. While this could hurt overall demand for EVs, it could actually strengthen Tesla's competitive positioning and make it more difficult for rivals to gain ground in the market.

This article was originally published on Fool.com. All figures quoted in US dollars unless otherwise stated.

Keith Noonan has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia's parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has positions in and has recommended Tesla. The Motley Fool Australia has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

More on International Stock News

A woman sits at her computer with her chin resting on her hand as she contemplates her next potential investment.
International Stock News

Should you invest $1,000 in Alphabet right now?

This stock has surged 63% higher in 2025 and now sports a $3.7 trillion market cap.

Read more »

A white EV car and an electric vehicle pump with green highlighted swirls representing ASX lithium shares
International Stock News

If you had invested $5,000 in Tesla stock 1 year ago, here's how much you would have today

Tesla's stock has lagged the S&P 500.

Read more »

A woman sits at her computer with her hand to her mouth and a contemplative smile on her face as she reads about the performance of Allkem shares on her computer
International Stock News

A new leadership group is emerging at Berkshire Hathaway. Here are some changes that could be in store for Warren Buffett's massive holding company.

It's beginning to look like Berkshire Hathaway may do some things differently once Warren Buffett retires.

Read more »

AI written in blue on a digital chip.
International Stock News

Down 17% from recent highs, is Nvidia stock a buy?

The stock has become more attractive recently. But have shares fallen enough to make them a buy?

Read more »

Woman and man calculating a dividend yield.
International Stock News

As 2026 gets closer, Warren Buffett's warning is ringing loud and clear. Here are 3 things investors should do.

Investors should be prepared for all kinds of scenarios.

Read more »

Hand with AI in capital letters and AI-related digital icons.
International Stock News

Better (almost) $4 trillion AI stock to buy now: Microsoft or Alphabet

Both of these top tech companies have established leadership roles in the AI industry.

Read more »

A tech worker wearing a mask holds a computer chip.
International Stock News

Could Nvidia become the first $10 trillion company?

Nvidia got in early on the AI opportunity and built an empire.

Read more »

A male investor sits at his desk looking at his laptop screen holding his hand to his chin pondering whether to buy Macquarie shares
International Stock News

Why the best-performing "Magnificent Seven" stock of 2025 is still a buy for 2026

Alphabet's stock has had a landmark year, and here's why it remains a buy.

Read more »