With a modest 27% gain, Rivian Automotive (NASDAQ:RIVN) stock showed a slight improvement over the S&P 500 Index ($SPX) in the previous year. However, it lagged behind its larger counterpart, Tesla (NASDAQ:TSLA), which doubled in value and recovered most of its 2022 losses. The start of this year has been challenging for Rivian, witnessing a 21% year-to-date decline.
Exploring the full-year forecast for Rivian stock in 2024, it is crucial to examine the various factors impacting this emerging electric vehicle (EV) company.
Factors Contributing to Rivian Stock Decline
Rivian’s recent stock dip can be attributed to two primary factors. Firstly, growth stocks faced pressure due to a surge in bond yields, with the broader markets experiencing a downturn in the initial trading week of 2024. This downturn particularly affected tech and growth stocks.
Secondly, Rivian fell short of its Q4 delivery estimates despite surpassing production guidance. The company did not explicitly clarify the reasons behind the 3,500-unit Q4 delivery shortfall, leading markets to interpret it as a potential signal of weakening demand.
Following the delivery setback, Wolfe Research downgraded the stock from “Outperform” to “Peer Perform,” expressing concerns about the near-term demand for Rivian vehicles, especially with no new models expected in the coming years.
RIVN Stock Predictions
Despite recent challenges, Wall Street analysts maintain a “Moderate Buy” rating for Rivian stock. Among the 23 analysts covering the startup EV company, 13 consider it a “Strong Buy,” 3 rate it a “Moderate Buy,” and 7 labels it a “Hold.” The mean target price of $26.09 represents a 41% premium to current prices, while the highest target of $40 implies a potential doubling of the stock value.
Rivian’s Unique Position in the EV Space
The electric vehicle sector is highly competitive, undergoing significant changes with potential challenges like price wars, persistent cash burn, and unfavorable capital market conditions. However, Rivian distinguishes itself through product strength, with its R1T pickup winning the prestigious Truck of the Year 2022 award from MotorTrend.
Rivian’s positive reviews from buyers, strong brand reputation, and healthy balance sheet with $9 billion at the end of September contribute to its standout position. The forthcoming Georgia plant and the launch of affordable R2 models also serve as long-term growth catalysts.
Short-Term Challenges for Rivian
Despite its positive long-term outlook, Rivian faces short-term uncertainties. The ongoing price war, driven by market leader Tesla prioritizing deliveries over profits, may persist. The “demand” question adds another layer of uncertainty, especially if the U.S. economy undergoes a recession, although the likelihood of this has diminished according to brokerages.
Rivian’s short-term performance is also influenced by the Federal Reserve’s policy. If the central bank deviates from expected rate cuts in 2024, growth stocks, including Rivian, might experience heightened volatility.
Investor Considerations
The electric vehicle sector, particularly with startups, carries inherent risks, and the short-term outlook might involve turbulence. However, Rivian is positioned to weather these challenges. While the stock may experience short-term declines in the current macroeconomic environment, its attractive next-12-month price-to-earnings multiple of 3.25x suggests a potential opportunity for patient investors. Overall, Rivian remains a compelling “buy-the-dip” candidate in the EV space, with the potential to reward long-term investors.
Featured Image: Megapixl
Author Faith Yakubu 
