Time to Buy Ford Stock? Not Until These 2 Things Change.

Core Viewpoint - Ford Motor Company presents an attractive long-term investment opportunity due to its low price-to-earnings ratio, strong dividend yield, and potential in profitable segments like full-size trucks and electric vehicles, but it faces significant challenges that need addressing [1][2][10] Group 1: Investment Appeal - The stock is seen as a value proposition with a price-to-earnings ratio of 11 [1] - Ford offers a lucrative dividend yield of nearly 4.5%, supplemented by special dividends during strong cash flow periods [1] - The company has a strong position in profitable segments such as full-size trucks, SUVs, and its commercial Ford Pro business, which generates recurring revenue [2] Group 2: Challenges to Address - Ford recorded a significant increase in recalls, with 153 recalls affecting approximately 13 million vehicles in the previous year, which negatively impacts its brand image and customer acquisition efforts [3][4] - Warranty costs surged by $800 million in Q2 2024, contributing to missed Wall Street estimates, highlighting the financial burden of recalls [4] - The Model-e division, responsible for electric vehicles, incurred losses exceeding $5 billion in 2024, indicating a need for strategic adjustments [7] Group 3: Strategic Initiatives - Ford plans to launch a more affordable midsize electric pickup by 2027, priced around $30,000, with expectations of early profitability [8] - The company has taken a $19.5 billion special charge to shift its strategy towards hybrids, which may offer better profitability compared to full-electric vehicles [9] - Innovations in assembly line processes and a new low-cost Universal EV Platform are part of Ford's strategy to reverse losses in the EV segment [8]