Tesla (TSLA) stock experienced a slight decline in post-market trading on March 17, 2025, sparking widespread discussion about the company’s outlook. On the surface, this dip might seem like a reflection of short-term market sentiment, but a deeper analysis points to a more significant factor: the political risks stemming from Elon Musk’s controversial stance on the Ukraine issue. While these risks have put pressure on Tesla’s stock price in the short term, they may also present a “once-in-a-millennium opportunity” for investors, as Tesla’s actual value far exceeds the current market perception clouded by these political concerns.
Musk’s Stance on the Ukraine Issue: Controversy and Risk
Elon Musk, the driving force behind Tesla and SpaceX, has increasingly drawn attention for his political statements, particularly his views on the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Since 2022, Musk has voiced opinions on the issue through his social media platform X, including proposing a “peace plan” that suggested Ukraine cede Crimea and remain neutral—a stance that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and others criticized as a concession to Russia, even labeling it as “pro-Russia.” In early 2025, Musk doubled down on his position, advocating for negotiations or a change in Ukraine’s leadership to end the war, once again igniting international backlash.
This stance has introduced several political risks for Tesla. First, criticism from Ukraine and its Western allies could impact Tesla’s reputation in key European markets, such as Germany and France, where electric vehicle demand is robust. Additionally, Musk’s involvement in the conflict through SpaceX’s Starlink service—which has been a critical communication tool for Ukraine on the battlefield—has stirred controversy. His decision to limit Starlink coverage in areas like Crimea at critical moments has been interpreted by some as undermining Ukraine’s efforts, potentially straining SpaceX’s relationship with Western allies. In March 2025, rumors surfaced about Musk’s alleged communications with Russian President Vladimir Putin, further fueling skepticism about his political alignment.
However, the veracity of these controversies remains uncertain. Musk insists his positions are aimed at preventing a larger conflict and humanitarian crisis, not supporting Russia. His supporters argue that Western media and politicians may be exaggerating these risks to pressure SpaceX or Tesla. Regardless of the truth, the current narrative has undoubtedly cast a shadow over Tesla’s stock price. The slight dip in post-market trading on March 17, 2025, likely reflects market sentiment reacting to these political risks.
Tesla’s Actual Value: A Foundation Beyond Political Storms
Despite the controversy surrounding Musk’s stance on Ukraine, Tesla’s core value remains unshaken. As the global leader in the electric vehicle (EV) industry, Tesla delivered over 2 million vehicles worldwide in 2024, solidifying its market dominance. Even amid macroeconomic uncertainties in early 2025, Tesla continued to see steady production and delivery growth, particularly at its Shanghai Gigafactory in China and its Texas factory in the U.S., with notable expansion in both its EV and energy storage businesses.
Tesla’s value extends far beyond its EV segment. Its Full Self-Driving (FSD) technology made significant strides in 2025, with commercial deployment beginning in select regions, laying the groundwork for future revenue diversification. Additionally, Tesla’s energy business—including solar panels and Powerwall storage systems—has emerged as a new growth driver, contributing to the company’s profitability. These successes are not tied to Musk’s political positions but are rooted in Tesla’s long-term technological innovation and strategic market positioning.
From a financial perspective, Tesla’s profitability continues to improve. In Q4 2024, Tesla achieved a gross margin exceeding 20%, far surpassing traditional automakers. This demonstrates that even in an environment of reduced EV subsidies or heightened geopolitical risks, Tesla can maintain its competitive edge through economies of scale and cost control. Musk’s political risks may influence short-term stock price movements, but they do not detract from Tesla’s leadership in the industry.
“A Once-in-a-Millennium Opportunity”: Undervaluation Amid Political Risk
The current adjustment in Tesla’s stock price is largely driven by Musk’s political risks rather than any deterioration in the company’s fundamentals. This creates a “once-in-a-millennium opportunity” for investors. While Musk’s stance on the Ukraine issue has sparked controversy, its actual impact on Tesla’s operations is limited. Historically, similar political storms—such as Musk’s 2018 dispute with the SEC—have not derailed Tesla’s long-term growth trajectory. The post-market decline on March 17, 2025, may simply be an overreaction of market sentiment rather than a true reflection of Tesla’s value.
For long-term investors, the current stock price dip represents an attractive entry point. Tesla’s EV business, autonomous driving technology, and energy initiatives are all in a phase of accelerated development, and the global shift toward clean energy will continue to support its growth. Musk’s political risks may cause short-term volatility, but they do not alter Tesla’s fundamental position as an industry leader. The market’s reaction to his controversies may be amplified, but Tesla’s value is being undervalued in the process.
Conclusion
The slight dip in Tesla’s stock price during post-market trading on March 17, 2025, may signal a “once-in-a-millennium opportunity.” While Musk’s political stance on the Ukraine issue has sparked widespread debate and short-term risks, Tesla’s actual value—rooted in its technological innovation, market leadership, and financial performance—remains intact. For visionary investors, now may be the ideal time to invest in Tesla. Political controversies may come and go, but Tesla’s long-term potential is waiting for those bold enough to see beyond the storm.
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