Musk Again Valued at $500 Billion—Still Only Person Ever

Key Highlights

  • Elon Musk’s net worth eclipsed $500 billion again on October 28, 2025.
  • Tesla’s shares rose due to improved trade negotiations between the U.S. and China.
  • Musk holds roughly 12% equity in Tesla.
  • Some groups have opposed Musk’s $1 trillion pay package.

The Rise of Elon Musk: $500 Billion Net Worth Again

On October 28, 2025, Elon Musk’s net worth surpassed the staggering sum of $500 billion once again. This significant milestone is due to a surge in Tesla’s stock value, driven by improved trade negotiations between the United States and China.

Tesla’s Financial Performance and Trade Impact

The rise in Tesla’s shares can be attributed to the warming relations between the U.S. and China, which account for more than one-fifth of Tesla’s sales. President Donald Trump, who had earlier threatened China with 100% tariffs over rare earth minerals restrictions, later stated that a trade deal was likely before his meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping.

In a further boost to market sentiment, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent announced on Sunday that Trump’s tariff threat had been effectively removed after a “very good” meeting with trade officials. This move sparked a broader market rally and contributed to the Dow Jones Industrial Average and S&P 500 closing at record highs.

Musk’s Personal Wealth and Tesla’s Performance

As of Tuesday afternoon, Tesla’s shares had risen by 2.2% to approximately $462.50, following a previous 4.3% rally on Monday. Musk, who holds roughly 12% equity in the company, became the first person ever to be worth $500 billion earlier this month and is now considered a potential trillionaire if Tesla shareholders approve his proposed $1 trillion pay package.

Despite the historic surge, some groups, including Glass Lewis and Institutional Shareholder Services, have advised Tesla’s shareholders to vote against the payment plan. In a letter to shareholders on Monday, Tesla chair Robyn Denholm warned that Musk could leave Tesla if the pay plan is rejected, stating: “Without Elon, Tesla could lose significant value, as our company may no longer be valued for what we aim to come.”

The Future of Tesla and Musk’s Pay Package

Tesla has reported a record number of vehicle deliveries in its latest quarter, although sales declined in Europe. The automaker’s revenues soared above $28 billion, but earnings per share came in at $0.50, falling short of Wall Street’s estimates of $0.56.

Despite the challenges, Musk remains a central figure driving the technological and financial success of Tesla. As the world watches closely for any developments on his proposed pay package, it is clear that Musk’s personal wealth and business acumen continue to shape the technology industry in unprecedented ways.