In thefast-evolving LiDAR space — the backbone of autonomous driving — Luminar Technologies (LAZR) is one of the frontrunners. Itshigh-performance LiDAR powers Volvo’s ((VLVLY) EX90 and ES90, marking the first standard integration in a production vehicle, while partnerships with Nissan (NSANY) and Mercedes-Benz (MBGYY) underscore its strong foothold among automakers.
But when LAZR stock spiked 19% last Wednesday on unusually heavy volume — without a single press release or filing to explain it — investors smelled something else:A short squeeze.
-
Rigetti Computing Just Got a New Street-High Price Target. Should You Buy RGTI Stock Now?
-
Nvidia’s Jensen Huang Says AI Is ‘The Most Complex Systems Problem Humanity Has Ever’ Seen and Thinks Elon Musk Will ‘Reach a Gigawatt First’
-
Dear Tesla Stock Fans, Mark Your Calendars for October 22
-
Markets move fast. Keep up by reading our FREE midday Barchart Brief newsletter for exclusive charts, analysis, and headlines.
This happens when traders betting against a stock rush to buy it back as prices climb, igniting a chain reaction that pushes shares even higher. It’s part panic, part momentum, and often short-lived. Yet in volatile names like Luminar, where innovation meets speculation, the line between genuine breakout and market squeeze can blur fast.
Can Luminar turn this short squeeze into lasting momentum? Or will gravity take over, making investors wonder whether it’s wiser to wait before diving in?
Founded in 2012 and headquartered in Orlando, Florida, Luminar has emerged as a standout in the fast-moving LiDAR race. The company develops next-generation sensing solutions designed to elevate vehicle safety and autonomy. Its breakthrough LiDAR systems, already featured in the Volvo EX90 and ES90, mark the first high-performance LiDAR to debut as standard in a global production vehicle.
Backed by other partnerships with Nissan and Mercedes-Benz, Luminar is expanding its reach beyond passenger vehicles into commercial, defense, and drone markets. This diversification, supported by its powerful 1550-nanometer LiDAR technology, positions Luminar as a key force driving the future of autonomous mobility. Luminar’s market capitalization currently stands at $129.9 million.
Luminar has been volatile over the past year. Back in November 2024, LAZR stock hit a 52-week high of $18.60. Fast forward to today, though, and it’s trading at $1.94 per share – an 89% drop from its high. The decline has been steep, with shares down 64% year-to-date (YTD) and 40% over the past three months, even touching alow of $1.58 on Sept. 2.
