Hyundai Motor’s stock rally is testing CEO Jose Munoz, who took over in January 2025 as the company’s first foreign CEO. Shares have nearly doubled since then, helped by U.S. business focus, hybrid expansion, local North American production and investor enthusiasm for robotics and physical AI. The stock has since slipped to the low 400,000-won range, while Munoz now faces pressure to prove those new bets can produce earnings.
Hyundai Motor CEO Jose Munoz speaks at the 2026 Busan International Mobility Show, June 26. Courtesy of Hyundai Motor
How much of Hyundai Motor's dramatic stock rally can be attributed to CEO Jose Munoz?
Since taking the helm in January 2025 as Hyundai Motor's first foreign CEO, Munoz has faced U.S. tariff pressure, intensifying competition and a rapidly changing auto market. Yet the company's stock has nearly doubled, rising from around 220,000 won ($159) when he took over to 415,000 won as of Friday's close.
Munoz can point to several achievements.
