URGENT UPDATE: Pope Leo XIV has sharply criticized the proposed near $1 trillion compensation plan for Tesla CEO Elon Musk, raising alarms over escalating income inequality. In a powerful commentary, Leo stated, “What does that mean and what’s that about?” in response to reports that Musk could become the world’s first trillionaire if shareholders approve this unprecedented pay package.
The pope’s comments come as Tesla shareholders prepare for a critical vote on November 6, 2025, regarding Musk’s compensation structure, which could see him awarded an astonishing 423.7 million Tesla shares if he achieves aggressive performance targets, potentially adding $900 billion to his wealth. This plan, if sanctioned, would make Musk the highest-paid executive in history and set a new benchmark for corporate pay.
In an exclusive interview with The Crux, Leo emphasized the widening gap between executive and worker pay, stating that CEOs today earn 600 times more than the average worker, a stark contrast to ratios from decades past. “If that is the only thing that has value anymore, then we’re in big trouble,” he warned, reflecting on the moral implications of such wealth accumulation.
Tesla’s board members have defended the compensation plan, asserting it is essential for retaining Musk and driving the company’s future success. They argue that incentivizing bold innovation is crucial for Tesla to achieve its ambitious goals, including a projected market value of $8.5 trillion—a figure exceeding the combined market caps of major tech giants like Meta, Microsoft, and Alphabet.
Musk, who currently holds a 19.7 percent stake in Tesla, remains optimistic about the company’s trajectory, asserting in April, “I continue to believe that Tesla, with excellent execution, will be the most valuable company in the world by far.” However, his controversial past, including a brief role in the Trump administration and ongoing challenges in European markets, has raised questions about Tesla’s profitability and future growth.
Pope Leo XIV’s remarks are poised to amplify public scrutiny of corporate governance and wealth distribution, igniting debates among investors, policymakers, and the general public. The potential impact of his statements could influence the upcoming shareholder vote and broader discussions about income inequality.
As Tesla moves towards this pivotal decision, the stakes have never been higher. The outcome on November 6 will not only determine Musk’s financial future but could also set a precedent for corporate compensation structures globally.
Stay tuned for the latest developments on this urgent issue as Tesla shareholders prepare for a potentially historic vote.
