Burry's Massive Puts vs. a Street‑High $255 Target From Bank of America – Who Should You Follow?

Core Viewpoint - Michael Burry is bearish on Palantir (PLTR), arguing that its valuation is excessively high, while bulls believe the company deserves its valuation due to significant growth and cash flow margins [1][2][5]. Valuation Concerns - PLTR stock trades at 156 times trailing sales and 552 times trailing earnings, with a forward P/E ratio of 175 times expected earnings for the next year, marking an unprecedented valuation since the Dot Com era [2]. - Burry holds put options on approximately 5 million shares of Palantir, with a notional value of around $912 million, representing 66% of his reported holdings [3][4]. Bullish Arguments - Bulls argue that Palantir is an extraordinary company with a nearly 50% free cash flow margin, indicating strong growth potential [5]. - The company is expected to generate full-year free cash flow of up to $2.1 billion, with a higher-end revenue estimate of $7.39 billion for 2026, leading to a forward FCF valuation of approximately 120 times [7]. Management Strategy - Palantir's management has implemented austerity measures while achieving accelerating revenue growth, aided by its software automation through Palantir Apollo [6]. Market Sentiment - Analysts are divided, with most holding a "Hold" rating, three analysts issuing "Sell" ratings, and four giving "Strong Buy" ratings, with the highest price target set at $255 by Bank of America [1]. - There is skepticism about Palantir's ability to maintain growth or profits, with potential for stock pullbacks in the near future [9]. Investment Strategy - For bearish investors, following Burry's lead may be prudent, while bulls are advised to limit exposure to PLTR to around 10% of their portfolio due to its high valuation [10][11].