Tesla 'may lose' Elon Musk if shareholders don't approve $1 trillion pay package, chairperson warns

Key Points

  • Tesla Chair Robyn Denholm urged shareholders to approve CEO Elon Musk's massive compensation package, warning that Musk might leave the company if the plan is not approved, risking the loss of his critical leadership.
  • The proposed package, tied to aggressive performance targets, could cost Tesla $1 trillion, but Denholm argues it is essential to retain Musk’s vision across Tesla’s diverse sectors like automotive and robotics.
  • Independent proxy advisers Glass Lewis and ISS oppose the package, calling it excessive and dilutive, while Musk has criticized these advisers as "corporate terrorists."
  • Musk’s prior 2018 pay package is under legal scrutiny in Delaware, with ongoing appeals, while the new package is expected to pass at the November 5 shareholder meeting despite opposition.
  • Critics highlight Musk’s political activities as damaging to Tesla’s brand, yet supporters like Wedbush analyst Dan Ives believe the package will secure Musk’s role during a pivotal time for the company.

Summary

Tesla Chair Robyn Denholm has issued a urgent plea to shareholders to approve CEO Elon Musk’s unprecedented compensation package, potentially worth $1 trillion, warning that his departure could jeopardize Tesla’s future. In a letter to shareholders, Denholm emphasized Musk’s indispensable role in driving Tesla’s success across automotive, robotics, and autonomous driving sectors, arguing that without an equitable pay-for-performance plan, Tesla risks losing his leadership and significant value. The package, linked to ambitious targets like a $8.5 trillion market cap, faces opposition from proxy advisers Glass Lewis and ISS, who deem it excessive. Musk, embroiled in a legal battle over his 2018 pay package, has criticized these advisers harshly. Despite concerns over Musk’s political engagements harming Tesla’s brand, analysts like Dan Ives predict shareholder approval at the November 5 meeting, viewing it as crucial during a critical phase for Tesla. Denholm insists Musk alone can lead Tesla to new heights in growth and societal impact.

yahoo
October 28, 2025
Stocks
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