Elon Musk told investors he needs nearly $1 trillion in Tesla stock options to protect the company from what he calls “corporate terrorists,” advisory firms ISS and Glass Lewis.
🔊 'It's not about the money. He's saying, it's not like I'm gonna spend it, but I want to be sure that I have enough stake in the company when I build an army of robots going ahead.' @abhiruproy30 on Musk's ask for a $1 trillion paycheck from Tesla https://t.co/KRZGBlDdCu pic.twitter.com/qxZOjyJp9q
— Reuters (@Reuters) October 23, 2025
Musk said these firms influence shareholder votes and could undermine his control over Tesla, despite shareholders historically backing board recommendations.
Musk currently owns 413 million shares and holds options for an additional 304 million shares, though Delaware courts have twice struck down his prior stock option packages.
The new proposal could give him another 423.7 million shares if Tesla hits ambitious valuation targets, potentially making him the world’s first trillionaire.
Tesla CEO Elon Musk warns “corporate terrorists” are trying to take away his $1 trillion pay package—and control over building out the company’s AI and robotic future. https://t.co/jIeZxjGBZ3
— FORTUNE (@FortuneMagazine) October 23, 2025
Tesla’s board argues the package is essential to retain Musk’s focus on the company amid his multiple ventures, including SpaceX, xAI, and the social media platform X.
Musk emphasized he does not intend to personally spend the payout but needs sufficient voting power to safeguard Tesla’s future.
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