Tesla's stock has experienced a significant decline, erasing approximately $380 billion in market value, following a public dispute between CEO Elon Musk and President Donald Trump. The conflict arose after Musk criticized Trump's tax bill, leading to concerns about Tesla's future amid political and regulatory uncertainties.
Tesla Inc (TSLA)
The feud began when Musk publicly criticized President Trump's "One Big Beautiful Bill," a $5 trillion tax and spending package that eliminates electric vehicle (EV) tax credits, including a $7,500 incentive crucial to Tesla's sales strategy. Musk labeled the bill a "disgusting abomination," expressing concerns
In response, President Trump accused Musk of self-interest, suggesting that the loss of EV subsidies drove his opposition. Trump escalated the situation by threatening to revoke federal contracts with Musk's companies, including Tesla and SpaceX.
The public spat intensified as both figures exchanged barbs on social media platforms. Musk even called for Trump's impeachment and hinted at the formation of a new centrist political party.
The market reacted swiftly to the unfolding drama. Tesla's shares plummeted by approximately 14%, marking the company's most significant single-day loss since 2021. This decline not only affected Tesla's market capitalization but also impacted Musk's wealth, which reportedly decreased by $34 billion amid the turmoil.
Analysts express concern over the long-term implications of this feud, particularly regarding Tesla's relationships with government agencies and its reliance on federal contracts. The situation underscores the potential risks when personal and political conflicts intersect with corporate interests.
While Tesla's stock has shown some signs of recovery, the broader consequences of the Musk-Trump fallout continue to unfold, leaving investors and stakeholders vigilant about future developments.
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