Tesla (NASDAQ:TSLA) CEO Elon Musk is a globally recognized business figure whose leadership has been pivotal in transforming Tesla into one of the largest EV manufacturers. His close association with the current U.S. president contributed to TSLA’s nearly 60% stock surge in the last two months of 2024, driven by hopes of favorable policies under the new administration. However, six weeks into the new presidency, Musk’s high-profile role in the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) has drawn scrutiny and diverted attention from Tesla. This has impacted investor confidence, leading to a ~31% drop in TSLA shares in 2025. Top investor Eugenio Catone warns that Musk’s political involvement risks alienating customers and damaging Tesla’s global reputation. Evidence includes vandalism at Tesla dealerships, a 45% sales drop in Europe in January, and calls for tariffs on Tesla imports in Canada. Catone rates Tesla stock a Sell, though Wall Street maintains a Hold consensus with a 12-month price target of $346.72, indicating potential ~24% upside. — news from TipRanks
