Shares in Volkswagen fell 1.5% in early Frankfurt trade after Europe's biggest carmaker late on Tuesday issued a profit warning due to charges related to the possible closure of Audi's Brussels plant.
Volkswagen Group lowered its forecast for operating returns on Tuesday to 6.5-7% from 7-7.5% as it announced that the Audi brand was considering closing its Brussels site because of low demand for the electric higher-end cars it produces.
Volkswagen is significantly undervalued, with its investments in Porsche AG, Traton SE, and other premium brands effectively making its other assets, including Rivian, "practically free" for investors. The company is strategically investing in electric vehicle technology and partnerships, including substantial stakes in Rivian, Xpeng, and innovative battery technologies through PowerCo, to enhance its competitiveness and future profitability. Despite past challenges, Volkswagen has restored profitability, maintains a robust balance sheet, and continues to innovate, positioning itself for growth in the competitive EV market, particularly in China.
Rivian Automotive partners with Volkswagen, receiving billions in investment for a joint venture to counter Tesla and lower development costs. The deal with Volkswagen allows Rivian Automotive to address profitability concerns and potentially accelerate the profit timeline. Rivian Automotive's valuation still offers a high margin of safety with cash accounting for almost 60% of market value.
Volkswagen offers a mix of attractive ICE technologies and aggressive EV expansion plans, with a potential upside of 60-70% according to my PT of €210/share. I invested in Volkswagen at an attractive valuation over a year ago, owning preferred stock with generous dividends. Despite recent declines, I believe the market overreacted to the company's earnings potential and fundamental upside.
Germany's cabinet blocked the planned sale of the gas turbine business of Volkswagen unit MAN Energy Solutions to a Chinese company on Wednesday, with ministers citing security reasons.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) on Wednesday closed a recall query on Volkswagen for 420,072 vehicles after they were fixed to remedy a potential fuel leak.
I agree with the sentiment recently expressed by investment bank Cannacord which called Rivian's (NASDAQ: RIVN ) deal with Volkswagen (OTCMKTS: VWAGY ) “monumental.” There are four main reasons why I believe the transaction will indeed prove momentous for Rivian and RIVN stock.
Germany's cabinet blocked on Wednesday the planned sale of Volkswagen subsidiary MAN Energy Solutions' gas turbine division to a Chinese company, two government sources said.
Recent developments, including a joint venture with Volkswagen, have prompted me to upgrade Rivian stock to "Buy". Financial figures for Rivian show improvement in margins and cost-effectiveness, with expectations for reduced cash burn and increased efficiencies. The joint venture with Volkswagen provides a significant financial backing for Rivian, potentially delaying cash burn issues and improving solvency.
The electric vehicle industry has become significantly more risky and competitive. Volkswagen's investment solves many of Rivian's near-term challenges.
The investment deal with Volkswagen gives Rivian a vital cash infusion. The funds will help Rivian scale its business and build its new manufacturing facility in Georgia.