Ferrari Sets New Record Highs On Earnings

Ferrari (NYSE: RACE ), the iconic luxury sports car manufacturer, is making headlines once again as its stock ( RACE ) catapults to all-time highs, fueled by impressive Q4 earnings and the potential signing of Formula 1 legend Lewis Hamilton. The renowned racing driver, a seven-time World Drivers' Championship winner, could be donning the iconic red suit for Ferrari in the 2025 season, signaling a significant shift in the F1 landscape.

Earnings Triumph:
Ferrari ( RACE ) reported Q4 adjusted earnings of 1.62 euros per share, exceeding forecasts with a 33% year-over-year increase. Net revenues for the quarter surged by 11% to 1.52 billion euros, surpassing FactSet analysts' expectations. The company delivered 1,493 cars to the EMEA market, while deliveries to the Americas rose by 6%. Despite a 25% drop in deliveries to China, Hong Kong, and Taiwan, Ferrari's ( RACE ) overall performance paints a robust picture.

Full-year shipments rose by 3% to 13,663 vehicles, although China deliveries experienced a 4% decline. Notably, cars and spare parts revenue jumped by 12% to 1.29 billion euros for the quarter, showcasing the brand's enduring appeal and solid financial performance.

Strategic Guidance:
Ferrari ( RACE ) provided optimistic guidance for 2024, expecting earnings to increase nearly 9% to 7.5 euros per share or more, with revenue projected to grow by about 7% to 6.4 billion euros or greater. Analysts at FactSet anticipate adjusted earnings of 7.53 euros per share on 6.45 billion euros in revenue, aligning with Ferrari's ( RACE ) bullish outlook.

Lewis Hamilton's Potential Move:
In a surprising turn of events, reports suggest that Lewis Hamilton, a stalwart with Mercedes, might be on the verge of joining Ferrari ( RACE ) for the 2025 season. The seven-time World Champion, who currently holds the record for the most Grand Prix victories at 103 wins, could form a formidable alliance with Ferrari's rising star, Charles Leclerc.

Hamilton's potential move adds an extra layer of excitement to the F1 narrative, as the partnership aims to challenge Red Bull's Max Verstappen, the current driver behind F1's dominance. If the speculated move materializes, it could mark a historic moment in the world of motorsports, bringing together one of the greatest drivers with one of the most iconic teams in the sport's history.

Market Reaction:
Investors responded swiftly to the positive earnings report and the Hamilton news, propelling Ferrari ( RACE ) stock to a 12% surge to all-time highs. The move has positioned RACE stock into a buy zone. The stock's strong ascent has also propelled it above its 50-day moving average, signaling continued market enthusiasm.

Conclusion:
Ferrari's ( RACE ) record-breaking performance, both on the financial front and the potential addition of Lewis Hamilton to its roster, underscores the brand's enduring appeal and strategic vision for F1 dominance. As the luxury carmaker revs up for the future, investors and racing enthusiasts alike are eagerly anticipating the unfolding chapters in Ferrari's ( RACE ) storied history. The convergence of financial success and high-profile partnerships positions Ferrari as a driving force in both the automotive and motorsports industries.