This AI Stock Just Became Wall Street's Most Controversial Pick for 2026

Core Viewpoint - Tesla is gaining attention as a potential investment in the AI sector due to its transition towards autonomous vehicles and humanoid robots, despite facing challenges such as declining sales and rising expenses [1][5]. Group 1: Analyst Optimism - Some analysts are becoming increasingly bullish on Tesla, particularly due to its self-driving car ambitions and the potential for significant revenue from robotaxi services, projected to reach $250 billion by 2035 [2][3]. - Wolfe Research analyst Emmanuel Rosner highlighted that 2026 will be a "catalyst-rich year" for Tesla, with at least 17 analysts currently holding a buy rating on the stock [2][3]. Group 2: Financial Performance - Tesla's gross margin improved to 20.1% in the fourth quarter, the highest in two years, and the company ended 2025 with $44 billion in cash and investments, a 20% increase from 2024 [3]. - However, Tesla's revenue fell by 3% in 2025, marking its first annual decline, while earnings dropped 47% to $1.08 per share, with vehicle revenue decreasing by 10% to $65.5 billion due to slowing consumer demand for EVs [6]. Group 3: Market Potential - The autonomous vehicle market could be valued at $1.4 trillion by 2040, and humanoid robotics may reach an estimated $5 trillion by 2050, indicating significant growth potential for Tesla if it can overcome current challenges [4].