You can’t drive a Tesla in South Africa, but you can own the stock. The question is: should you? More on that in a bit.
Ferrari’s gross margins are a whopping 50.7%, compared to 17.4% for Tesla. Clearly, we are not comparing like with like. Ferrari operates in the luxury brand space and is less concerned with pumping out volumes than it is about preserving brand value . Ferraris are known to hold their value – even appreciating as they leave the factory floor, particularly for limited editions – which is one reason they are seen as a rand hedge in SA.A 1962 Ferrari GTO race car auctions for record $51.7m
The reasons for Tesla’s stretched valuation have much to do with the earnings outlook beyond EVs, notwithstanding the company’s decision to pay off 10% of its staff. The company plans to unveil its long-awaited Robotaxi, with no steering wheel) in August 2024, though the commercialisation of this project may still be some way off, given the legal, regulatory and ethical challenges.