Aug. 16, 2025 at 12:39 PM ET5 min read

First Solar Shares Surge on Treasury’s Tax Credit Decision

Tim BohenAvatar
Written by Tim Bohen
Reviewed by Ben Sturgill Fact-checked by Ellis Hobbs

First Solar Inc.’s stock trading up by 12.13% after reporting strong quarterly earnings and announcing a major new project.

Key Highlights

  • Shares of First Solar soared 13% after the U.S. Treasury and the IRS revised their guidance, allowing clean energy projects to earn tax credits.
  • Investors were encouraged as the company’s stock reached $198.54, reflecting a positive market reaction following updated tax credit rules.
  • GLJ Research and UBS both increased First Solar’s price target to $214.06 and $275, respectively, maintaining a Buy rating based on strong second-quarter results.
  • Positive revisions in the firm’s price target and a new supply agreement with 5N Plus are driving upward momentum in stock value.

Energy industry expert:

Analyst sentiment – positive

Market Position & Fundamentals: First Solar Inc. (FSLR) occupies a strong market position in the renewable energy sector, demonstrated by its robust financial metrics. The company’s high gross margin of 42.8% and a profit margin of 28.95% underscore its operational efficiency. With revenue of $4.2 billion and a Price-to-Earnings (P/E) ratio of 15.79, First Solar’s valuation is attractive compared to its historical P/E high of 145.09. The company maintains a low leverage profile, with a total debt-to-equity ratio of 0.07, highlighting its financial health and prudent management. Furthermore, a return on equity of 9.93% and a return on assets LTM of 10.54% illustrate solid management effectiveness and asset utilization, positioning First Solar as a leader in the solar panel manufacturing market.

Technical Analysis & Trading Strategy: Weekly price patterns for First Solar indicate a dominant bullish trend, reinforced by a significant upward price movement from $180.20 to $201.88. The recent price action shows a strong bullish candlestick formation, suggesting sustained upward momentum. Look for confirmation by monitoring key support at $184, a level that has historically provided stability. On a trading strategy standpoint, buying opportunities present themselves on pullbacks to this support, with a price target between $210 and $215, given the established upward trajectory and recent volume upticks during price increases, indicating institutional interest.

Catalysts & Outlook: First Solar’s outlook is buoyed by recent positive catalysts, including an increase in price targets from several firms, reflecting the market’s confidence in its growth trajectory and strong Q2 earnings performance. The US Treasury’s updated clean energy tax credit guidance has further catalyzed investor enthusiasm, evidenced by notable stock gains. The company’s new supply agreement with 5N Plus enhances its strategic positioning in photovoltaic module manufacturing. Compared to benchmarks, First Solar outpaces its peers in renewable energy production. With institutional target prices ranging up to $275, resistance levels around $220 from previous peaks are key areas to watch. In summary, given these developments and solid fundamentals, the overall sentiment for First Solar remains bullish.

Candlestick Chart

More Breaking News

Weekly Update Aug 11 – Aug 15, 2025: On Saturday, August 16, 2025 First Solar Inc. stock [NASDAQ: FSLR] is trending up by 12.13%! Discover the key drivers behind this movement as well as our expert analysis in the detailed breakdown below.

Quick Financial Overview

The recent financial metrics for First Solar paint a robust picture of growth and stability. With an increase in its fiscal projections, First Solar’s quarterly revenue exceeded expectations, highlighting a promising operating revenue of $1.1B. Net income for the quarter was reported at $341.87M, substantially bolstering investor confidence. This was reflected in their comprehensive margins, with a standout gross margin at 42.8% and an EBIT margin of 31.8%.

In their quarterly report ended June 30, 2025, First Solar also showcased a positive earnings per share (EPS) of $3.19, evidencing the company’s operational success. The balance sheet remains strong with total assets of $12.9B, complemented by a low total debt-to-equity ratio of 0.07, signifying prudent financial management. For the cash flow, significant capital expenditures of $288.13M suggest ongoing investment in expansion and technology.

Given this context, the adjustments to clean energy tax credits are poised to further accelerate First Solar’s capital efficiency and market performance. Analysts have pointed out that the current price-to-earnings ratio of 15.79 signals an attractive valuation for a firm in a burgeoning sector.

This is stock news, not investment advice. StocksToTrade News delivers real-time stock market updates tailored to highlight the key catalysts driving short-term price movements. Our coverage is designed for active traders and investors who thrive in fast-moving markets, with a focus on volatile sectors like penny stocks, AI stocks, Robinhood stocks and other momentum plays. From earnings reports and FDA approvals to mergers, new contracts, and unusual trading volume, we break down the events that can spark significant price action.

Looking to level up your trading game? Explore StocksToTrade, the ultimate platform for traders. With powerful tools designed for swing and day trading, integrated news scanning, and even social media monitoring, StocksToTrade keeps you one step ahead.

Check out our quick startup guide for new traders!

Ready to build your watchlists? Check out these curated lists:

Once your watchlist is set, take the next step and trade with confidence using StocksToTrade’s robust platform. Don’t miss out — grab your 14-day trial for just $7 and experience the edge you need to thrive in today’s fast-paced markets.