Tesla stock (TSLA) investors are feeling the squeeze. The stock slid nearly 7% last week as fresh tariffs from the U.S. and China rattled markets. But it wasn’t just trade pressure. Elon Musk’s erratic leadership, weak delivery numbers, and rising EV competition are starting to pile up—and the cracks are showing.
Sales Miss Triggers Fresh Panic Among Investors
In early April, Tesla reported a 13% drop in quarterly vehicle deliveries—its worst performance in nearly three years. Total units fell to 386,810, far below Wall Street expectations. Demand, particularly in China, has softened. And with trade tensions rising, fears of higher costs and fewer buyers are taking hold fast.
Wall Street Cuts Targets as Musk Faces Fire
The hits didn’t stop there. According to The Los Angeles Times, Wedbush analyst Daniel Ives—previously one of Tesla’s most vocal bulls—slashed his price target by 43%. Ives cited tariffs and Musk’s “unpredictable distractions” as key risks. He also warned that Tesla’s once-loyal investor base is growing impatient.
EV Competition and Global Headwinds Add Pressure
At the same time, rivals are catching up. Chinese automakers continue undercutting Tesla’s pricing power. And U.S. tariffs could force Tesla to raise prices—or eat the costs. With margin pressure building, the EV giant is losing some of its shine, especially as other automakers improve range, features, and affordability.
Tesla’s Future Hinges on More Than Elon’s Tweets
The brand is still iconic. But with falling sales, an uneasy macro backdrop, and increasing investor skepticism, Tesla has some serious proving to do. Whether it’s through innovation, pricing strategy, or just better delivery execution, something has to change. For now, Wall Street’s patience is wearing thin.
Is Tesla a Buy, Sell, or Hold?
Turning to Wall Street, analysts have a Hold consensus rating on TSLA stock based on 16 Buys, 11 Holds, and 11 Sells assigned in the past three months. Furthermore, the average TSLA price target of $302.31 per share implies 29.6% upside potential.
