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Ford's 58% stock growth lags behind the S&P 500 despite recent gains

A $100 bet on Ford in 2021 is now worth $158—but that's still far behind the broader market. Why are investors skeptical about its future?

The image shows an advertisement for the Ford Four Cylinder, a twenty-horse power, five passenger...
The image shows an advertisement for the Ford Four Cylinder, a twenty-horse power, five passenger touring car. The poster features a detailed illustration of the car, along with text describing its features and benefits.

Ford's 58% stock growth lags behind the S&P 500 despite recent gains

Ford Motor Company has seen a steady but modest rise in its stock value over the past four years. An investment of $100 in late January 2021 would now be worth $158, marking a 58% total return on the stock market today. This growth, however, falls short of the broader market's performance during the same period.

In 2025, Ford's shares climbed by 33%, offering some relief to investors. Yet the company continues to face challenges in a mature industry known for tight profit margins and low returns on capital. High expenses and ongoing capital expenditures have weighed on its financial flexibility.

The stock currently trades at a forward price-to-earnings ratio of 9.5, a figure that often attracts value-focused investors. Despite this, analysts remain cautious about its long-term ability to outperform the stock market. For comparison, the S&P 500 delivered a total return of 94% over the same timeframe, significantly outpacing Ford's gains.

Ford's position in a competitive sector, combined with its financial pressures, suggests limited upside potential. While the recent share price increase provides a short-term boost, broader market trends highlight the difficulty of sustaining stronger growth.

Ford's stock has grown by 58% since early 2021, yet it still trails the S&P 500's performance. The company's low valuation and recent gains may interest some investors, but its financial burdens and industry constraints remain key hurdles. Future growth will likely depend on how well Ford manages costs and adapts to market conditions.

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