Elon Musk has suggested that extraordinary wealth does not necessarily translate into personal happiness, despite his status as the richest individual in the world. In a candid moment shared online, the tech billionaire implied that the advantages of immense fortune may fall short of delivering emotional fulfilment.
Musk’s vast resources have allowed him to pursue ambitions such as the colonisation of Mars, make substantial political donations—including to figures like US President Donald Trump—and raise more than a dozen children without financial pressure. Yet, by his own account, these privileges have not brought him the joy one might expect.
“Whoever said ‘money can’t buy happiness’ really knew what they were talking about,” Musk wrote late Wednesday on X, the social media platform formerly known as Twitter, which he acquired in 2022 for about $44 billion. The post, accompanied by a sad-face emoji, quickly gained traction, recording more than 66 million views by late Thursday morning.
Elon Musk’s $668B Fortune Sparks Debate
Public reaction to the remark was mixed. Some users expressed sympathy, while others responded with criticism or sarcasm. A number of replies suggested he turn to religion or philanthropy for meaning. One user, posting from the account of Charmane Harbert, commented on the link between wealth and wellbeing, saying, “But it certainly gives you a head start.”
Another response took a more pointed tone, adding, “Are you worried about how you’ll keep a roof over your kids’ heads?…Nope?…Then stop pouting and count your blessings.”
Musk’s net worth is estimated at $668 billion. In late 2024, Tesla shareholders approved a performance-based compensation package for him as chief executive that could reach as much as $1 trillion. His business empire spans electric vehicle manufacturer Tesla, artificial intelligence venture xAI, and aerospace company SpaceX, among others.
AFP
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