Tesla's stock surged 5.01% on Friday, December 6th, 2024, amid growing optimism around the electric vehicle maker's autonomous driving and artificial intelligence (AI) initiatives.
The rally was fueled by multiple factors, including progress in Tesla's Full Self-Driving (FSD) software and hopes for a favorable regulatory environment for the company's robotaxi ambitions under the incoming Trump administration.
BofA Securities raised its price target on Tesla to $400 from $350, citing the company's advancements in FSD and showcasing of self-driving capabilities during a factory tour. The analyst believes Tesla is nearing the point where it could safely launch its robotaxi business, which could drive significant revenue growth.
Additionally, Tesla CEO Elon Musk has emerged as a key advisor in President-elect Donald Trump's transition team, co-leading an effort to streamline government bureaucracy. This has raised expectations that policies favorable to Tesla's AI and autonomous driving projects could be enacted.
Musk, who previously donated heavily to pro-Trump groups during the election, has also been named by Trump as the White House AI and Crypto Czar. This appointment positions Musk to shape the legal framework for the rapidly evolving AI and cryptocurrency industries, aligning with Tesla's cutting-edge initiatives.
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