Aston Martin. Pedigree isn't protection.
Aston Martin has lost nearly £2.4 billion since 2014, the equivalent of £45,000 per car sold. It's now raising another £200 million just to stay afloat.
THE GIST ON ASTON MARTIN: "The hole"
How much has Aston Martin lost?
Since 2014, nearly £2.4 billion. That's the equivalent of £45,000 per car sold.
According to the FT, it has raised another £2 billion in equity and £400 million in debt, and still carries net debt of £1.3 billion, nearly eight times its earnings. Now it has to raise another £200 million.
Is this a bad year or a structural problem?
Huw says structural: a heritage brand trying to scale in a brutal global market. When you sell exclusivity but can't build enough volume, every tariff, supply chain hiccup or demand slowdown gets magnified, and the maths no longer matches the myth.
What does it show?
If a brand as prestigious and old as Aston Martin can burn cash like a tech startup, pedigree isn't protection. Ultra luxury makers depend on fragile economics: investor money, global demand and confidence. When that runs out, the most iconic names are at risk.
Would you buy an Aston Martin, given the chance?
Your take. One tap, then see how everyone else voted.
Quick answers
How much has Aston Martin lost since 2014?
Nearly £2.4 billion, equivalent to £45,000 per car sold.
How much debt does it carry?
Net debt of £1.3 billion, nearly eight times its earnings, according to the FT.
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