Ford Motor (NYSE:F) was hit with a downgrade by Bernstein SocGen Group, which adjusted its rating on the stock from Market Perform to Underperform and slashed its price target from $9.40 to $7. The move reflects growing anxiety over the impact of recently implemented vehicle tariffs and the likelihood of additional tariffs on auto parts in the near future.
Bernstein’s latest analysis indicates that these trade policy shifts could deal a substantial blow to Ford’s financial outlook. The firm estimates a more than 35% hit to free cash flow, while adjusted earnings projections for 2025 and 2026 have been sharply reduced—by over 41% and 36%, respectively.
Beyond the direct cost of tariffs, the downgrade also factors in a broader deterioration in consumer sentiment, which could weigh on vehicle demand. As the economic and political environment becomes more volatile, Bernstein believes the current valuation fails to fully reflect the downside risks Ford is facing.
With the stock already underperforming and trade-related pressures building, Bernstein expects further weakness and advises investors to brace for a rougher road ahead.