Core Viewpoint - Porsche, once considered a "money printing machine" in the luxury car market, is currently facing unprecedented challenges, with a significant decline in global deliveries and stock price pressure [1][3]. Sales Performance - In 2025, Porsche's global deliveries totaled 279,449 units, a 10% decrease from 310,718 units in 2024 [3][4]. - The most significant decline occurred in the Chinese market, where deliveries fell to 41,938 units, down 26% year-over-year [4][5]. - Sales in the German market dropped by 16% to 29,968 units, while sales in the rest of Europe decreased by 13% to 66,340 units [4][5]. - North America remained Porsche's largest single market, with sales of 86,229 units, showing no significant change compared to the previous year [4]. Market Challenges - The decline in sales is attributed to several factors, including a lack of competitive products in the luxury segment and increased competition from domestic brands in China [5][6]. - Porsche's sales director, Matthias Becker, indicated that the company is facing challenges due to a product line gap, particularly with the 718 and Macan fuel models, and a sustained weak demand for high-end products in China [5][6]. - The company has also been impacted by tariffs on imported cars in the U.S., which have affected profitability [3]. Strategic Adjustments - Porsche plans to close approximately 200 self-built charging stations in China starting March 2026, reflecting the company's struggle in the Chinese market [6][8]. - The company is also considering reducing the number of 4S stores in China to 80, indicating a significant shift in its operational strategy [8]. - Porsche aims to accelerate its electrification strategy, targeting over 80% of new vehicles to be electric by 2030, while continuing to produce existing fuel models until the 2030s [8].

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the increasing scrutiny and criticism surrounding Oliver Blume's dual role as CEO of both Volkswagen Group and Porsche, highlighting concerns over potential conflicts of interest and governance issues [3][5][31]. Group 1: Background and Context - Oliver Blume is the first CEO in Volkswagen Group's history to hold dual positions as CEO of both Volkswagen and Porsche [10]. - The controversy over Blume's dual role began when he took over as CEO of Volkswagen Group, with initial concerns raised by a minority of investors [14][18]. - Following Porsche's IPO in September 2022, Blume's leadership has come under greater scrutiny as both companies face declining performance [18][30]. Group 2: Financial Performance and Market Response - Porsche's performance has been declining, with a 3% drop in global deliveries in 2024 and a significant 28% decline in the Chinese market [27][28]. - As of early 2025, Porsche's stock price has fallen to €43.46, nearly halving from its IPO price of €82.5 [30]. - Financial forecasts for Porsche indicate a projected revenue of €37-38 billion for 2025, down from €40 billion the previous year [66]. Group 3: Governance and Shareholder Concerns - Shareholders have increasingly called for Blume to choose one CEO position, citing governance structures that are unprecedented in both Volkswagen and the broader German corporate landscape [9][32]. - Concerns have been raised about the potential for conflicts of interest and weakened accountability due to Blume's dual role [48][49]. - Some family members of the Porsche-Piëch family, who control a significant voting stake in Volkswagen, have expressed differing views on Blume's dual role, with some advocating for a clearer separation of responsibilities [40][54]. Group 4: Blume's Justification and Strategic Vision - Blume defends his dual role as a strategic advantage, allowing for resource integration and unified decision-making across both companies [56][57]. - He emphasizes the importance of scale in negotiations and the ability to implement necessary reforms across both brands [60][61]. - Blume believes that his leadership can help navigate the complexities of the automotive industry's transition to electric vehicles [59][63]. Group 5: Future Outlook and Strategic Adjustments - Volkswagen plans to launch 30 new models in China over the next two years, with a focus on localizing research and development [63][64]. - The company is also restructuring its dealer network in China, aiming to reduce the number of dealerships by one-third by 2027 [69].