HSBC downgrades Nvidia stock rating to hold on leadership uncertainty

HSBC has downgraded Nvidia's stock rating to "hold" due to uncertainty surrounding the company's leadership succession. The downgrade sets a price target of $170 for Nvidia, which trades at 11 times its one-year forward price-to-earnings ratio, the lowest multiple in 15 years. This follows Jensen Huang's resignation as CEO on November 12, with interim CEO Colette Kress named without a permanent succession plan.

The stock has fallen 22% since October 29, when The New York Times reported an alleged intelligence effort, compared to the Nasdaq's 4% decline over the same period. The downgrade reflects a valuation reset due to the leadership transition, according to HSBC. Analysts note that investor confidence has been shaken by the unclear plan, with room for re-rating emerging once a permanent replacement is in place and demonstrates execution capability.