Ford Motor Co (F) shares climbed more than 4% on Tuesday, buoyed by a robust earnings report and raised full-year guidance from rival General Motors (GM), which fueled optimism for the broader U.S. automotive sector and set a positive stage for Ford’s own quarterly results due Thursday.
GM, one of Detroit’s “Big Three” automakers alongside Ford, delivered a strong third-quarter performance, with revenue of $48.59 billion and adjusted earnings of $2.80 per share, both surpassing analyst estimates. More significantly, the company raised its 2025 adjusted EPS guidance to a range of $8.75 to $10.50, up from its previous forecast, signaling confidence in its operational strength and cash flow generation despite headwinds from strategic EV realignment costs.
The positive sentiment emanating from GM’s report spilled over to Ford, with investors interpreting it as a healthy indicator for the traditional auto industry. Ford is scheduled to release its Q3 earnings after the market closes on Thursday. Analysts, according to consensus estimates, expect the company to report earnings of $0.36 per share on revenue of $42.87 billion.
Ahead of the print, several major financial institutions have adjusted their outlook on Ford. JP Morgan raised its price target to $14 from $13, maintaining an Overweight rating. UBS and Goldman Sachs also lifted their targets to $12.50 and $12, respectively. While Wells Fargo maintained an Underweight rating, it too nudged its price target higher to $10.
Further bolstering the environment for Ford are recent developments, including potential White House moves to extend tariff relief on auto parts, which could enhance cost efficiency, and internal leadership changes aimed at strengthening the company’s global and electric vehicle initiatives.
As Ford shares ride the momentum, all eyes are now on Thursday’s earnings report and the subsequent conference call, where CEO Jim Farley and CFO Sherry House are expected to detail the company’s performance and its progress under the Ford+ growth plan. The market will be keen to see if Ford can capitalize on the industry tailwinds and deliver results that justify the recent bullish sentiment.
