Nokia (NOK) Gets a Buy Rating, But Q2 Operating Loss Raises Questions
B. Riley initiated coverage on Nokia (NOK) with a Buy rating and $15 price target, citing growth in telecom infrastructure and cloud software. Q2 2026 saw 20% growth in Optical Networks revenue and a 105% surge in AI/cloud sales. However, Nokia reported a EUR 50M operating loss, down from a EUR 147M profit a year earlier, due to restructuring costs. Hedge fund interest increased, with 81 funds holding the stock in Q2. Analysts are mostly positive, with a median target of $13.33.
How this was made

The 30-second read
Why it matters
Analyst coverage may reprice the stock, but the loss raises questions about cash burn and restructuring costs.
Market read
The new rating and price target provide a fresh catalyst for NOK, while the operating loss tempers enthusiasm.
What to watch
Potential impact of restructuring charges and inventory correction cycles on near‑term profitability.
Background
Nokia reported a EUR 50 million operating loss in Q2 2026 but highlighted strong AI and cloud order intake and growth in optical and IP networks.
Ticker impact
B. Riley initiated coverage on Nokia, assigning a Buy rating, a $15 price target, and disclosed Q2 operating loss and AI order intake.
Potential modest rally if investors focus on growth in AI networking and ignore the operating loss.
Buy rating and $15 target represent a 24% upside from current price; however, the operating loss and negative cash flow temper expectations.
Market effects
Positive signal for telecom infrastructure and AI networking vendors as demand from hyperscalers grows.
European telecom stocks may see modest support from the rating upgrade.
Limited to investors tracking AI‑related networking equipment exposure.
Counterpoint
The operating loss and negative free cash flow could outweigh the growth narrative, prompting a sell‑off.
Key entities
- AnalystB. Riley
Initiated coverage with a Buy rating and $15 price target.
- CompanyNokia Oyj
Telecom infrastructure provider reporting Q2 results.





