Tesla ETFs: What's Next After Worst Q2 in a Decade?

Core Viewpoint - Tesla reported disappointing first-quarter 2025 results, missing earnings and revenue estimates, with a significant decline in quarterly revenues, raising concerns about the company's brand image and leadership focus due to CEO Elon Musk's political activities [1][10][12] Financial Performance - Adjusted earnings per share were 33 cents, below the Zacks Consensus Estimate of 39 cents and up from 30 cents year-over-year [3] - Revenues fell 12% year-over-year to $22.5 billion, missing the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $22.43 billion, primarily due to a 16% decline in automotive revenues linked to a slump in vehicle sales [3] - Global deliveries for Q2 2025 were 384,122 vehicles, a 13.5% decline from the previous year, marking the worst year-over-year decline in the company's history [4] Growth Initiatives - Tesla has begun rolling out its paid robotaxi service in Austin, TX, with plans for expansion to other cities [6] - CEO Musk aims to have the robotaxi service available to "probably half of the population of the U.S. by the end of the year," pending regulatory approvals [7] - The company plans to launch a more affordable vehicle model in Q4 2025, delayed from June, and expects regulatory approval for its Full Self-Driving software in parts of Europe by year-end [8] Leadership and Political Engagement - Musk's increasing political involvement has raised investor concerns about his focus on Tesla, particularly after announcing a new political party and supporting controversial political movements [10][11][12] - The combination of declining sales and Musk's political activities has led to skepticism regarding Tesla's near-term outlook and leadership effectiveness [12] ETFs Impacted - Several ETFs with significant allocations to Tesla are under scrutiny due to the company's performance, including Simplify Volt TSLA Revolution ETF (TESL), Consumer Discretionary Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLY), The Nightview Fund (NITE), Fidelity MSCI Consumer Discretionary Index ETF (FDIS), and Vanguard Consumer Discretionary ETF (VCR) [2][13][14]