Evaluating AVAV Stock's Actual Performance

Core Viewpoint - AeroVironment's stock has experienced a significant decline, dropping 32% from its all-time high, primarily due to increased competition in the autonomous vehicle sector [2][4]. Performance Overview - Over the past year, AeroVironment's shares have increased by 46.6%, outperforming the S&P 500's 14.2% rise [3]. - Despite a recent slump, investors who purchased shares a year ago have seen positive returns [2][3]. - In three years, AeroVironment's stock has surged by 203.8%, significantly exceeding the S&P 500's 70% return [3]. - The five-year performance shows a 222.8% increase, which is only marginally better than the three-year performance due to a downturn in 2021 [4][5]. Market Context - The market capitalization of AeroVironment is currently $14 billion, with a share price of $279.38 [6]. - The stock has a gross margin of 26.45% and does not offer a dividend yield [6]. - The company's stock price saw a notable increase following the Russian invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, highlighting the strategic importance of drones in modern warfare [6].