With Tesla's Q2 earnings just around the corner, market expectations have rarely been this muted. Analysts have slashed delivery and margin forecasts, citing intense price competition, soft demand, and Elon Musk’s ongoing political distractions. But when expectations are low — surprises can hit hard in the other direction.
Why the Bar Is So Low
Delivery dip: Tesla’s Q2 deliveries came in at 443,956, slightly above the most bearish estimates but still down year-on-year.
Margin pressures: Continued price cuts in key markets have weighed on gross margins, and few are expecting a dramatic recovery this quarter.
Muted guidance: The company’s full-year delivery outlook remains cautious, giving analysts little to cheer about.
But Could Tesla Surprise?
Model Y “L” momentum: The new variant in China could lift optimism around demand recovery and localized success.
Energy & services growth: Tesla’s non-auto businesses — like Megapacks and FSD subscriptions — could deliver upside surprises that are often overlooked.
AI & Dojo updates: Any forward-looking commentary on robotaxis, FSD licensing, or AI monetization could reignite bullish sentiment.
Big Picture
Tesla’s share price has been volatile, recently dipping below $300 amid political drama and shifting sentiment. But if Q2 earnings manage to outperform even slightly — or if Elon drops a forward-looking bombshell — the setup for a sharp rebound is there.
When the bar is set low, it doesn’t take much to jump over it. The real question is — are you positioned before the surprise hits?
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