People

Elon Musk

Elon Musk

Formal First Name
Elon
Dates
6/28/1971 - present
Location

Elon Musk is working to revolutionize transportation both on Earth and in space. As the co-founder and CEO of Tesla, he leads all product design, engineering, and global manufacturing of the company's electric vehicles, battery products, and solar energy products. As lead designer at SpaceX, Musk oversees the development of rockets and spacecraft for missions to Earth orbit and ultimately to other planets. Previously, Musk co-founded and sold PayPal, the world's leading Internet payment system, and Zip2, one of the first internet maps and directions services.

Professional Experience


Academic History

Tesla Controversies
  • Funding Secured Tweet (8/2018)
    • Tweeted the Following:  "Am considering taking Tesla private at $420.  Funding secured"
    • The stock rose ~11% based on the tweet
    • Accused of manipulating the price of TSLA stock 
      • No formal 8k was filed
      • No proof was given to back up using the term "funding secured"
      • The deal would have been the largest buyout of a public company in history
      • The buyout was unlikely given Tesla is not yet profitable
    • Was prosecuted for Fraud by the SEC
    • Ultimately agreed to settle the case with the SEC
    • Was prosecuted for Fraud by the SEC

      • $20 Million Fine
      • Step down as chairman for 3 years
      • Can't admit or Deny Guilt
      • Requires Tesla to review his external communications
      • Settlement criticized for being too lenient - he's too rich and powerful.  SEC claimed that he was essential to Tesla and without him Tesla investors would be harmed