Why Is Intuitive Machines Stock Still Going Up?

Core Viewpoint - Intuitive Machines stock has shown resilience despite a downgrade from Bank of America, indicating potential investor optimism and future growth prospects [2][4][5]. Group 1: Stock Performance and Analyst Ratings - Bank of America analyst Ronald Epstein lowered the price target for Intuitive Machines stock from $16 to $10.50, resulting in an "underperform" rating [2]. - Despite the downgrade, Intuitive Machines stock increased by 1.2% initially and continued to rise, gaining 5.1% by mid-morning [2][4]. - The stock's performance this year has been bolstered by a report of positive free cash flow of $13.3 million in Q1 [5]. Group 2: Future Profitability and Cash Flow Concerns - Analysts predict that Intuitive Machines will not achieve sustained profitability until at least 2027 and consistent positive free cash flow until 2028 [6]. - Management has cautioned about potential "cash receipt lumpiness" in Q2, which may lead to negative free cash flow [5][6]. Group 3: Growth Opportunities - Intuitive Machines has secured multiple NASA contracts for lunar missions, a Near Space Network communications contract, and is developing Earth reentry vehicles for semiconductor and space pharmaceutical clients, indicating a promising future [7].