Elon Musk on $1 trillion Pay Package: 'What's Wild Is...'

Tesla CEO Elon Musk has once again posted on social media platform X (formerly known as Twitter) to address the critics of his historic $1 trillion compensation package, calling out what he sees as a contradiction in their arguments.

In a new post shared on X, Musk wrote, “What’s wild is that the same people who say Tesla is overvalued also say my pay package is too much — even though it’s contingent on Tesla becoming the most valuable company on Earth.” The remark made by Tesla CEO highlights the irony he sees in criticism of a performance-based award that only materializes if Tesla reaches unprecedented valuation milestones.

A trillion-dollar bet on Tesla’s future

Earlier this year, Tesla shareholders approved a pay package of $1 trillion for Elon Musk tied to aggressive targets in market capitalization and operational performance.

If achieved, the package could make Musk the world’s first trillionaire.Despite receiving support from over 75% of shareholders, the package has drawn scrutiny. Critics argue it reflects excessive executive compensation, while supporters see it as a bold vote of confidence in Musk’s leadership and Tesla’s long-term vision.

Musk fires back

Musk’s recent posts on X reflect his frustration with what he views as inconsistent criticism.

In another post, he reiterated that anyone can join him on the journey by investing in Tesla stock, framing the package as a shared opportunity rather than a personal windfall.He also shared anecdotes from his early life in Canada, emphasizing his modest beginnings in response to criticism of his wealth. The posts add a personal dimension to the ongoing debate about executive pay and corporate governance.

Chairperson of Tesla Board of Directors sends thanks note to shareholders

Tesla Board Chair Robyn Denholm told shareholders their overwhelming approval of CEO Elon Musk's $878 billion compensation package sends "an unmistakable message" that they support the company's ambitious vision and want leadership to steer toward an extraordinary future.

In a letter following the vote, Denholm said shareholders chose to back the people who have been fighting for Tesla's mission since the earliest days, looking past the noise to reaffirm belief in a trailblazer who has built one of the world's most valuable companies.The historic compensation plan, which ties Musk's earnings to achieving ambitious milestones including a market value of $8.5 trillion, passed with over 75% support from 1.94 billion votes despite fierce opposition from major institutional investors.