Tesla (TSLA -3.24%) shares are extremely volatile, but they have remarkably rewarded investors. Just in the past five years, they have climbed 530% (as of May 30). This is despite the pandemic, supply chain issues, inflationary pressures, and general economic uncertainty that have concerned investors since mid-2020.In the first quarter of 2025 (ended March 31), Tesla reported EV deliveries of just under 337,000 units, automotive sales of $14 billion, and operating income of $399 million. All of these key performance metrics were down year over year. Higher interest rates, weak consumer sentiment, and an intensely competitive industry aren’t making things easy for Tesla.Tesla investors, at least those who want to own the company for the long term, know that buying the stock is a bet on the future. There is certainly reason to be excited, at least from a technology perspective. Is it time to bet on the future performance?
