Auto stocks hit a speed bump after President Donald Trump brushed off concerns over higher car prices following his announcement of new 25% tariffs on foreign imports.
Shares of Toyota Motor Corp
Trump's Tariff Play
Trump's weekend interview with NBC News only added fuel to the fire, reported the Wall Street Journal. When asked if foreign automakers hiking prices would hurt U.S. consumers, he dismissed the concern outright. "I couldn't care less."
The logic? If foreign cars get more expensive, Americans will buy domestic. That stance sent ripples through the markets, with Asian and European automakers posting sharp declines.
In Japan, Toyota dropped 3.1%, Honda fell 3.1%, and Nissan tumbled 4%. South Korea's Hyundai slipped 3.8%; in Europe, Stellantis lost 2.8%, Volkswagen declined 3.1%, and Mercedes-Benz slid 2.6%. Even Ferrari NV
Is This A Buying Opportunity?
Auto stocks have been in reverse all year, and technical indicators don't offer much encouragement. Toyota's stock is flashing strong bearish signals, trading below its 5-, 20-, 50- and 200-day moving averages. The same goes for Honda and Stellantis stocks, both caught in a downtrend and facing selling pressure.
Even Tesla Inc
The Road Ahead
With tariffs kicking in on April 2, the next few weeks could be bumpy for auto stocks. If global carmakers pass the costs to consumers, demand could take a hit, further pressuring share prices.
However, investors with a long-term view might find bargains in the wreckage, particularly among companies able to navigate price adjustments without losing market share.
For now, auto stocks remain in the danger zone. But contrarians might find value under the hood if prices fall much further.
