LA Engineer's $19,000 Tesla Bet Grew Into $2.8 Million

A Los Angeles-based engineer named Jason DeBolt turned an early bet on Tesla into a multimillion-dollar position, according to a report from 24/7 Wall St. DeBolt first purchased Tesla shares in 2013, putting down $19,000 at a time when the company was still a relatively unproven automaker. More than a decade later, that initial investment has grown to roughly $2.8 million, the outlet reported.

A Rocky Road to Long-Term Gains

DeBolt's journey with Tesla stock was far from smooth. In 2018, he faced a margin call, a moment that can force investors to sell shares or add cash to cover losses on borrowed money. He weathered that challenge and continued holding his position. Years later, in 2023, his Tesla holdings were hit by a 76% decline in value, according to 24/7 Wall St., yet DeBolt again chose not to exit the stock.

Staying the Course Through Volatility

The story highlights how dramatic swings in Tesla's share price have tested even its most committed long-term holders. A margin call and a steep 76% drop represent two of the most severe tests an individual investor can face, both financially and psychologically. According to the report, DeBolt's decision to remain invested through both events ultimately allowed his original $19,000 stake to multiply many times over into its current $2.8 million value.

Lessons for Investors

24/7 Wall St. frames DeBolt's experience as a case study in the risks and rewards of holding a volatile growth stock over the long term. The outlet notes that his story illustrates how enduring sharp downturns — rather than reacting to them by selling — can be central to capturing the full upside of an investment like Tesla, whose stock has been known for outsized price swings in both directions since DeBolt first bought in.

Source: 24/7 Wall St.