Stellantis, parent company of Jeep and Ram, sees 10% decrease as worries rise over excessive inventory levels

Stellantis (STLA) Stock Slides as First Quarter Sales Disappoint

Stellantis (STLA) stock took a hit on Tuesday as the company reported first quarter sales and shipments that fell compared to a year ago, despite a lineup of new vehicles set to hit showroom floors later this year.

The Big Three automaker, known for its European-focused product portfolio, reported a revenue of $44.54 billion, down 12% from the previous year. CFO Natalie Knight attributed this decline to transitions in product offerings, inventory management, regional mix, and foreign exchange impacts. Shipments also fell by 10% globally to 1.335 million, with low inventories and supply constraints affecting deliveries.

Despite the disappointing first quarter results, Stellantis confirmed its full-year 2024 guidance of double-digit adjusted operating income, with CFO Knight projecting it to be in the low teens. However, investors were not reassured by the company’s optimistic outlook for the second quarter, with shares tumbling 10% in midday trade.

Analysts expressed concerns over Stellantis’ inventory levels, with CFRA analyst Garrett Nelson lowering his price target on the stock to $24 from $30. Nelson highlighted the need for the automaker to align supply with demand and potentially increase incentives to drive sales.

Stellantis remains optimistic about the future, citing upcoming new product offerings, including electric and hybrid versions of its popular Ram pickups, as potential drivers of growth in the second half of the year. Investors will be closely watching to see if these new models can indeed turn the tide for Stellantis in the coming months.