I've Covered Tesla for Over a Decade. Here's Whether It's a Stock to Buy More Than 21% Below Its Record

Tesla (NASDAQ:TSLA) reported third-quarter results late Wednesday, Oct. 21, and the stock has inched lower since. Shares trade near $380 as I write, more than 21% below their record close of $489. 88 in December 2025. On the surface, the quarter looked like progress. Operating income (what Tesla 's business makes before interest and taxes) climbed to $718 million from $398 million in the second quarter. Management also cut its spending forecast for the year and said Megapack batteries are almost sold out for 2027. But I've learned to check where Tesla's profit came from before giving a quarter credit.