General Motors lifts forecast as tariff outlook improves, shares surge 14%

Core Viewpoint - General Motors has raised its profit outlook for the year due to reduced tariff costs and lighter losses on electric vehicles (EVs) as it adjusts its strategy in the EV market [1][4]. Financial Performance - GM's annual adjusted core profit is now expected to be between $12.0 billion to $13.0 billion, an increase from the previous estimate of $10.0 billion to $12.5 billion [4]. - The impact of tariffs on GM's bottom line has been revised down to a range of $3.5 billion to $4.5 billion, compared to the earlier estimate of $4 billion to $5 billion [4]. - GM's quarterly adjusted earnings per share fell to $2.80, surpassing analysts' expectations of $2.31, while revenue for the quarter slightly decreased to $48.6 billion from the previous year [5]. Market Reaction - GM's shares surged 14% following the profit forecast and third-quarter results, marking the largest single-day increase in nearly six years [2]. Strategic Adjustments - CEO Mary Barra indicated that the company is focusing on EV investments to comply with federal requirements, although she acknowledged that near-term EV adoption will be lower than initially planned due to changing regulations [3]. - GM incurred a $1.6 billion charge related to its revised EV strategy and anticipates future charges as it addresses overcapacity to reduce EV losses in 2026 and beyond [3]. Industry Context - U.S. car sales increased by 6% in the third quarter despite tariff uncertainties, with consumers opting for more expensive models and features [5]. - The positive results from GM also positively impacted rival companies, with Ford Motor and Stellantis shares rising approximately 4% and 3% respectively [4].