Elon Musk has set a new record in global wealth rankings, becoming the first individual to cross the $700 billion net worth threshold.
The milestone was reached after the Delaware Supreme Court reinstated his long-disputed Tesla compensation package, which had previously been struck down by a lower court.
The ruling, delivered on 20 December 2025, restored stock options valued at approximately $139 billion, dramatically boosting Musk’s fortune to an estimated $749 billion.
This decision overturned Chancellor Kathaleen McCormick’s earlier order that had rescinded the package, with the state’s top court ruling that such a move was “an excessive response” and failed to allow Tesla to propose fair executive pay terms.
Musk’s wealth now exceeds the combined fortunes of the next three richest individuals: Google co-founder Larry Page ($252.6 billion), Oracle founder Larry Ellison ($242.7 billion), and Amazon’s Jeff Bezos ($239.4 billion). In effect, Musk is nearly $500 billion richer than Page, the second wealthiest person.
The pay package in question dates back to 2018, when Tesla shareholders approved a performance-linked deal worth $56 billion. Critics argued that the agreement was excessive and improperly approved, leading to years of litigation.
However, the Supreme Court’s latest ruling concluded that rescinding the package entirely left Musk “uncompensated for his time and efforts over a period of six years”.
The decision has sparked debate over executive compensation and corporate governance. Supporters argue that Musk’s leadership has transformed Tesla into the world’s most valuable carmaker, justifying the extraordinary payout. Detractors, however, warn that such rulings set a precedent for unchecked executive rewards.
Financial analysts note that Musk’s wealth is heavily tied to Tesla’s stock performance, meaning his fortune could fluctuate significantly with market trends.
Nonetheless, the reinstated package has propelled him closer to becoming the world’s first trillionaire, a prospect that now appears increasingly plausible.
The ruling also underscores the influence of judicial decisions on corporate leadership and wealth distribution.
As Musk continues to expand his ventures in space exploration, artificial intelligence, and energy, his unprecedented fortune is likely to remain a focal point in discussions about inequality and the future of global capitalism.
