More CEOs want Elon Musk–style ‘moonshot’ pay packages—but comp experts are raising alarms

David Rogier, the founder of MasterClass, has made waves by claiming that CEOs who don't utilize AI daily are only performing at 80% of their potential. He has created an AI clone of himself, which he says has significantly increased his productivity, saving him an entire day of work. This perspective highlights the growing importance of AI in leadership roles and suggests that embracing technology can enhance rather than diminish a CEO's value.

California Governor Gavin Newsom recently commented on the success of Tesla and its CEO Elon Musk, suggesting that his administration's policies have played a role in that achievement. However, this raises questions about the ongoing subsidies for Tesla, prompting a discussion on the balance between supporting innovation and fiscal responsibility. This matters because it highlights the complexities of government involvement in the tech industry and the implications for future policies.

Peter Beck, the self-taught engineer behind Rocket Lab, is making waves in the space industry by competing directly with giants like Elon Musk and Jeff Bezos. This is significant because it showcases how innovation and determination can challenge established players, potentially leading to more advancements in space exploration and technology.

Elon Musk's ambitious $1 trillion pay plan is encountering significant resistance from investors and state officials. This plan, which aims to reward Musk based on the company's performance, raises concerns about its feasibility and potential impact on shareholder value. Investors are worried that such a massive compensation package could divert resources and lead to misaligned incentives, while state officials are scrutinizing the implications for corporate governance. This pushback highlights the ongoing debate over executive compensation and its effects on company performance.

Elon Musk had a tumultuous week, marked by a wave of Netflix cancellations and unexpectedly high EV sales estimates, yet Tesla's stock took a hit, closing down 4.5% at $439. This decline raises concerns about whether the recent sales figures can truly indicate a turnaround for the company, especially amidst growing skepticism and backlash against Musk. Investors are left questioning the sustainability of Tesla's performance in a challenging market.

The recent backlash against Netflix's pro-trans content, particularly from figures like Elon Musk, has led to a notable dip in subscriptions and stock value. This situation highlights the ongoing debate over how media representation impacts business, as some viewers express their discontent by canceling their subscriptions. The implications of this trend could affect Netflix's future programming decisions and its overall market position.

Netflix's stock has taken another hit, dropping 2.4% following Elon Musk's calls for users to cancel their subscriptions. Musk's criticism centers around his belief that the streaming service promotes a 'transgender woke agenda,' which has sparked significant discussion. This situation is crucial as it highlights the impact of influential figures on public perception and corporate performance, especially in the competitive streaming market.

In a recent ruling, a judge has decided that Elon Musk cannot transfer the Securities and Exchange Commission's lawsuit against him regarding Twitter out of Washington D.C. This decision is significant as it keeps the case in a jurisdiction that has been historically challenging for Musk, potentially impacting his legal strategy and the future of his social media platform.

OPEC Plus has reached a consensus to slightly increase oil production, a decision that could stabilize global oil prices and support economic recovery. This move is significant as it reflects the group's commitment to balancing supply and demand in the market, which is crucial for both producers and consumers. With the ongoing recovery from the pandemic, this small boost in production may help alleviate some pressure on prices, benefiting economies worldwide.

Health insurers are facing significant challenges due to rising hospitalizations and increased utilization, which could lead to unfavorable changes for older Americans. This situation is concerning as it may impact the affordability and accessibility of healthcare for a vulnerable population that relies heavily on these services.

The White House has warned that layoffs could begin if President Trump perceives that negotiations regarding the government shutdown are not progressing. This situation is concerning as it highlights the potential impact of political stalemates on employment and public services. The uncertainty surrounding the shutdown talks could lead to anxiety among workers and families who depend on government jobs and services.

Palantir has decided to withdraw from a significant billion-dollar contract dispute, marking a notable moment in its business strategy. This decision highlights the company's approach to risk management and its willingness to step back from potentially contentious negotiations. Understanding why Palantir chose to walk away can provide insights into its future direction and the broader implications for the tech industry.

Ministers in the UK are gearing up to announce significant changes to the planning system aimed at boosting the country's sluggish economic growth. Rachel Reeves is expected to unveil these changes before the upcoming budget, but there are divisions within the government regarding the extent of these reforms. The chancellor plans to introduce measures that will simplify the process for developers to build houses and infrastructure projects, which could potentially stimulate the economy. This is an important development as it reflects the government's attempt to address economic challenges and improve housing availability.

Walmart has launched a stunning 10-piece cookware set priced at just $40, which has garnered rave reviews from customers. Many are so impressed with its quality that they've discarded their old pots and pans. This affordable yet stylish set not only enhances kitchen aesthetics but also makes cooking more enjoyable, proving that you don't have to spend a fortune to get great kitchen essentials.