Tesla Downgraded by Morgan Stanley as AI Optimism Priced In
Morgan Stanley downgraded Tesla for the first time since June 2023, citing overvaluation of its AI and robotics ambitions. Analyst Andrew Percoco set a $425 price target, implying a 6.6% downside, as the stock trades at 210x forward earnings—making it the S&P 500's second-priciest after Warner Bros Discovery.
"While Tesla's potential in humanoid robots and energy is recognized, these catalysts appear fully priced," Percoco noted. The firm now rates Tesla Equal-Weight, replacing Adam Jonas' long-standing Overweight call. Wall Street's average target sits at $388, with 28 Buy, 19 Hold, and 16 Sell ratings.
Despite the downgrade, Morgan Stanley values Tesla's Optimus robot program at $60 per share. The stock fell 3% Monday to $441 amid concerns about earnings volatility and stretched valuations.