Archer Aviation Inc. closed Friday's trading session with a significant 12.5% gain, reaching $7.30 per share. Trading volume was robust at approximately 50.5 million shares, indicating strong investor interest.
The advance occurred as market participants shifted capital toward smaller, more volatile companies, with technology names underperforming. This rotation fueled a broad rally in small-capitalization stocks, with the Russell 2000 ETF climbing roughly 3.6% for the day.
A key development for Archer is a recent regulatory filing by ARK Investment Management LLC, led by Cathie Wood. The firm reported a 5.40% passive stake in Archer, equivalent to over 35 million shares, on February 3.
The company is developing its "Midnight" electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft for short urban air taxi routes. While it has secured partnerships, such as an agreement with Serbia for up to 25 aircraft, Archer has yet to generate revenue and continues to report substantial annual losses.
Analysts note the stock remains highly sensitive to market sentiment and financing risks. Delays in aircraft certification or production, as well as potential future capital raises, pose ongoing challenges.
Traders are now looking ahead to key U.S. economic data, with January employment figures scheduled for release on February 11 and Consumer Price Index inflation data due on February 13, which could influence broader market direction.
