Ford Motor Company (NYSE: F) has become one of the most widely held stocks by individual investors in 2025, reflecting growing retail confidence in the automaker’s strategic transformation and hybrid success. According to data from the Robinhood Investor Index and Yahoo Finance’s Most Active Stocks screener, Ford ranks among the top individual investor favorites, alongside leading tech and AI-driven names.
Retail Investors Back Ford’s New Vision
Ford’s broad retail ownership underscores a notable shift in individual investor sentiment. Unlike in past decades, where consumer brands or tech stocks dominated portfolios, retail investors are increasingly drawn to companies undergoing fundamental transformations—and Ford fits the bill.
With a revamped hybrid and EV strategy, expanding software-driven services, and an emphasis on capital efficiency, Ford has re-emerged as a promising growth story. This pivot, coupled with its affordable valuation compared to many high-flying tech names, has made it a retail investor magnet.
Hybrid Margins Outpacing ICE Models
Ford’s hybrid strategy is proving highly lucrative, with hybrid margins now surpassing those of internal combustion engine (ICE) models. The company’s iconic F-150 hybrid accounts for 25% of the model’s total sales, a testament to the growing consumer demand for fuel-efficient, lower-emission vehicles.
This success has encouraged Ford to double down on hybrid expansion, offering consumers more affordable alternatives while scaling back on expensive EV investments. The move has been met with approval from both retail and institutional investors, as it aligns with current market demands.
Strategic Cost Optimization and Capital Efficiency
Under its new leadership, Ford is tackling cost structure challenges head-on. The company has implemented a third-party validation process to optimize spending, introduced new governance frameworks, and brought in external talent to drive efficiency.
In its Pro business segment, Ford has made significant strides, with 700,000 software subscriptions driving recurring revenue. The company also expanded its service capacity by adding 2,000 new service trucks and stalls, boosting its commercial vehicle presence.
Autonomous and EV Pivot: A Smarter, Leaner Approach
While competitors rush headfirst into capital-intensive EVs, Ford is refining its EV strategy, reducing CapEx by 30% on batteries and developing a new, affordable EV platform through a California-based team. This measured approach allows Ford to preserve cash flow and prioritize profitability.
In the autonomous driving sector, Ford is focusing on in-house Level 3 capabilities, with plans to partner on Level 4 development, keeping costs in check while advancing innovation.
Retail Investors Betting on Ford’s Resurgence
Ford’s strong retail following highlights how individual investors are recognizing the company’s strategic pivot and its potential for long-term growth. With hedge funds also increasing their positions in Ford stock, the automaker is gaining attention across the investment spectrum.
