Explore the potential of leading tech stocks in the EV and streaming sectors amidst recent market fluctuations.
Over the past year, the tech sector has surged by a substantial 48%, driving impressive gains across the market. Among the key players propelling this growth is Nvidia (NASDAQ:NVDA), witnessing a meteoric rise of around 75% this year. As per Deloitte’s 2024 technology industry outlook, the best tech stocks are poised to sustain this momentum.
Embarking on this journey, we will delve into three standout tech stocks operating in the electric vehicle (EV) and streaming sectors.
In both realms, these companies leverage proprietary software and unique offerings to navigate their respective industries. Despite encountering setbacks this year, the downward trajectory presents a lucrative opportunity for investors eyeing substantial returns, cementing their status among the cream of the tech stock crop.
Embracing Evolution: Rivian Automotive (RIVN)
Source: Michael Vi / Shutterstock
Rivian Automotive (NASDAQ:RIVN) has weathered a 48% dip year-to-date, influenced by the overall bearish sentiment pervading the EV sector. Reports hinting at a potential bankruptcy filing by Fisker (NYSE:FSR), an ailing EV startup based in California, contribute to the gloomy market outlook.
Despite the challenges, RIVN shines with 68,000 reservations for its self-driving electric R2 SUV model. The company ramps up production targets as it sets its sights on mass-producing the Rivian R2 and R3. Signing a deal with Amazon (NASDAQ:AMZN) to commercially distribute its electric vans further illustrates RIVN’s strategic growth trajectory.
Although profit remains elusive, Rivian has exceeded analyst expectations in three of the last four quarters. With plans to achieve gross profit positivity this year and recent quarterly reports reflecting reduced losses, the company charts a path towards financial health.
While Tesla’s (NASDAQ:TSLA) aggressive pricing strategy could pose challenges, potentially impeding RIVN’s profitability timeline, the company’s decision to pause operations on a $5 billion manufacturing facility in Georgia, aiming for cost savings and accessible vehicle production, instills hope amidst uncertainties.
Analyst Michael Shlisky from D. A. Davidson underscores the stock’s upside potential against this backdrop, assigning RIVN a $19 target price. This sentiment aligns with a consensus rating of “moderate buy,” pegging the average price target at $18 per share, depicting a promising 65% uptick from its current price of $11 per share.
Source: Koshiro K / Shutterstock
XPeng (NYSE:XPEV) aggressively forges ahead, spearheading the development of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) for its autonomous vehicle lineup. Pioneering cutting-edge technology, the company deploys these innovations in key Chinese urban hubs.
Noteworthy progress is seen in XPeng’s strides towards intelligent driving technologies, with the introduction of XNGP (Xpeng Navigation-guided Pilot) and XBrain architecture, addressing diverse driving scenarios seamlessly.
Positioned as a critical player in the smart EV evolution, XPeng integrates an all-encompassing ADAS solution, driven by its proprietary software. The autonomous vehicle market, currently valued at approximately $54 billion (2023), is expected to surge to $214 billion by 2030 as per Grand View Research, reflecting a robust compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 22%.
In the realm of EVs, XPeng marked a milestone by delivering 20,115 electric vehicles in December 2023, setting a new record for monthly sales while witnessing a 78% annual surge. Total sales in Q4 reached 60,158 units, translating to a substantial 171% spike year-over-year, culminating in an annual delivery count of 141,601 vehicles, up by 17% compared to the previous year.
Despite a 31% decline in its stock value this year attributed to geopolitical tensions, waning demand, and pricing pressures, XPeng’s recent initiatives are anticipated to drive a resurgence in the upcoming months. Analysts project an average price target of $13 per share, reflecting a potential 32% upswing from its current price of $10 per share.
Powering Progress: Roku (ROKU)
The Twists and Turns of Roku’s Strategy in the Streaming War
Roku’s Strategic Shift in the Streaming Universe
In a world where streaming is overthrowing traditional pay TV, Roku’s pivot towards internet-distributed television emerges as a strategic move that hints at the company’s adaptability and foresight. Originally a video aggregator, Roku has transformed its approach by venturing into content production and ramping up its advertising revenue streams. This evolution has contributed to Roku’s commendable performance in crucial markets and demographics, with the company recently surpassing 80 million active users and clocking over 100 billion streaming hours.
Cost-Cutting Measures and Financial Projections
Looking ahead, Roku is embarking on a journey of aggressive cost reduction. Through operational streamlining and strategic layoffs, the company has managed to unlock substantial cash flows poised to fuel its growth trajectory through 2023. Anticipating a 15% upsurge in revenue for the first quarter of 2024, Roku sets its sights on achieving break-even adjusted EBITDA, leveraging a forecasted revenue figure of approximately $850 million.
Challenges Amidst Analysts’ Optimism
Despite the promising landscape, Roku’s stock has encountered a setback, plunging by 28% on the stock market. This decline is attributed to apprehensions surrounding immediate challenges on the horizon. Notably, retail giant Walmart has plunged into the streaming arena, acquiring Vizio for a hefty $2.3 billion, thereby intensifying the competition Roku faces in the market.
Furthermore, Roku is taking decisive actions to rein in its media and entertainment expenses, citing unsustainable cost levels. This move underscores the company’s commitment to financial prudence and operational efficiency in navigating the tumultuous waters of the streaming industry.
Analysts’ Consensus and Price Targets
Nevertheless, amidst these hurdles, analysts maintain a bullish stance on Roku’s prospects. With a “moderate buy” consensus and a price target of $87, analysts foresee a potential 35% upswing in Roku stock value. This optimistic projection highlights the underlying faith in Roku’s resilience and capacity to weather the storms of market competition and financial challenges.
On the journey to navigate the ever-evolving streaming landscape, Roku stands as a testament to adaptability and strategic acumen. With challenges looming on the horizon, the company’s ability to pivot, innovate, and capitalize on emerging trends delineates a narrative of resilience and determination in the face of adversities.
*On the publication date, Faizan Farooque did not have (directly or indirectly) any positions in the securities mentioned in this article. The opinions expressed in this article are those of the writer, subject to the InvestorPlace.com Publishing Guidelines.*
