QuantumScape (NYSE:QS) Stock Price Up 0.3% - Here's What Happened

On Tuesday, shares of QuantumScape Co. (NYSE:QS) saw a slight increase, trading up by 0.3%. The stock reached a high of $5.33 before settling at a closing price of $5.24. During the trading session, 5,767,143 shares exchanged hands, which is significantly lower than the average volume of 19,124,447 shares, marking a 70% decrease from typical activity. The previous close was $5.22.

Analyst Ratings Changes

Various research firms have recently provided insights regarding QuantumScape's stock. Notably, HSBC upgraded QuantumScape from a "reduce" rating to a "hold" with a price target of $5.30, as noted in their report on November 19th. Additionally, Truist Financial maintained a "hold" rating but raised its price target to $7.00 from a previous $6.00 in a note dated October 25th. Currently, one analyst rates the stock as a sell while six others suggest holding it, leading to an overall average rating of "Hold" with a consensus price target of $6.26, according to MarketBeat.com.

QuantumScape Stock Metrics

In terms of financial health, QuantumScape boasts a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.03, with current and quick ratios both at a noteworthy 14.07. The stock’s 50-day moving average stands at $5.26, and its 200-day moving average is higher at $5.70. QuantumScape's market capitalization is approximately $2.66 billion, and it has a P/E ratio of -5.46 along with a beta of 4.46, indicating higher volatility relative to the market.

The latest earnings report for QuantumScape, released on October 23rd, showed the company recorded an earnings per share (EPS) of ($0.23), slightly below the consensus estimate of ($0.21). When compared to the same quarter last year, the EPS remained unchanged at ($0.23). Analysts predict that for the current fiscal year, QuantumScape will report a total EPS of -0.99.

Insider Activity

Recent insider trading activity shows some executives selling shares. CFO Kevin Hettrich sold 55,647 shares on November 21st at an average price of $5.05, totaling $281,017.35. Post-sale, he retains ownership of 1,022,743 shares valued around $5.16 million, which represents a 5.16% decline in his stock holdings. Meanwhile, director Jagdeep Singh also sold 5,531 shares for approximately $27,710 on November 14th, decreasing his ownership by 0.21%. In total, insiders have sold 536,460 shares amounting to $2.9 million in the last ninety days, and insiders currently hold about 12.03% of the company's total shares.

Institutional Investor Activity

Recent shifts in ownership among institutional investors have been noted, with some funds modifying their stakes in QuantumScape. Heck Capital Advisors LLC made a new investment valued at $26,000 during the fourth quarter. Signaturefd LLC increased their position by 79.9%, acquiring an additional 2,148 shares for a total of 4,838 shares worth around $28,000. International Assets Investment Management LLC raised their stake by 475.1%, now holding 5,118 shares valued at approximately $29,000, after purchasing an additional 4,228 shares. Blue Trust Inc. raised its holdings by 208.8%, owning 6,738 shares worth $39,000 after acquiring 4,556 more. Centaurus Financial Inc. also established a new position valued at about $52,000 during the second quarter. Institutional investors currently hold around 29.87% of QuantumScape’s shares.

About QuantumScape

Founded in 2010 and based in San Jose, California, QuantumScape Corporation is a research and development entity focusing on solid-state lithium-metal batteries aimed at electric vehicles and other similar applications.

Investing Considerations

Before deciding to invest in QuantumScape, potential investors should take note of the current ratings and trending stock analyses. As per recent reports, while QuantumScape has received ratings leaning towards holding, analysts have flagged other stocks that may present better investment opportunities at this time. Investors should stay informed about these developments before making a decision.

QuantumScape, Stock, Analysis