Mary Barra, CEO of General Motors (GM), participated in the annual Allen and Co. Sun Valley Media and Technology Conference recently, amid a significant year for the company’s stock. As of July 2025, GM’s stock has surged over 55%, reaching a record high of more than $80 per share, marking its best performance since the automaker’s recovery from bankruptcy in 2009. This increase is notable when compared to last year’s rise of 48.3%.
Several factors are contributing to GM’s stock rise. Barra has expressed that the company’s shares have been undervalued, attributing the success to quality vehicles, innovative technology, customer experience, and strong financial results. However, Barra has also reduced her stake in the company, exercising options or selling about 1.8 million shares worth over $73 million this year, though she still holds over 433,500 shares valued at more than $35 million.
GM is outperforming its competitors, with Tesla seeing a 17% increase, Ford 34%, and Stellantis reporting a 15% decline. Analysts have responded positively to GM’s strong quarterly earnings, which have consistently surpassed Wall Street expectations, particularly after a revenue boost from the latest quarter.
Furthermore, regulatory changes under the Trump administration, including relaxed fuel economy standards, have also favorably impacted GM. Analysts from UBS have increased their price target for GM by 14% to $97 a share, highlighting the automaker’s strategic advantages in the North American market. CFO Paul Jacobson indicated a commitment to ongoing stock buybacks to enhance shareholder value.
Why this story matters:
- GM has emerged as a leader in the U.S. automaker space, signaling a positive shift in the automotive market.
Key takeaway:
- Consistent earnings performance and favorable regulatory changes have contributed to GM’s stock growth.
Opposing viewpoint:
- Some analysts may express concerns regarding long-term sustainability amid a shifting industry landscape, especially in EV markets.
