Tesla chief Elon Musk has become the first individual to exceed $700 billion in net worth, reaching $749 billion after the Delaware Supreme Court reinstated his 2018 compensation package worth $139 billion.
The surge followed the court’s 20 December ruling that overturned a 2024 decision voiding the deal.
Musk’s fortune now dwarfs that of Google co-founder Larry Page, the world’s second-richest person, by nearly $500 billion, according to Forbes real-time billionaires index.
The milestone underscores Musk’s dominance in technology and space, with impacts extending to African nations like Kenya, where his Starlink satellite service is expanding internet access in remote areas.
Court restores landmark 2018 pay package
The Delaware Supreme Court ruled that rescinding Musk’s 2018 package – originally valued at $56 billion – was improper and inequitable.
This came after Tesla shareholders in November approved a separate $1 trillion compensation plan, the largest in corporate history, supporting Musk’s vision to transform the electric vehicle company into an artificial intelligence and robotics powerhouse.
Musk had surpassed $600 billion earlier in the week amid SpaceX valuation gains.
Musk South Africa roots and Africa footprint
South Africa-born Musk’s wealth ascent highlights global inequalities, particularly acute in Africa.
His companies are increasing presence on the continent via satellite internet, with electric vehicle initiatives centred in north Africa.
Tesla established its first African subsidiary in Morocco in 2025 with initial capital of USD 2.75 million, focusing on sales and charging infrastructure.
In Kenya and other states, Musk’s projects aid digital advancement by bridging infrastructure gaps.
Starlink delivers benefits and challenges for Kenyans
Musk’s record wealth emphasises opportunities and limitations of his technologies for Kenyans.
Starlink recorded 19,460 active users in Kenya as of September 2025, its highest since launch, after rebounding from earlier declines.
Costing around KSh 4,000 monthly plus hardware, it provides reliable speeds in rural areas, supporting education, business and healthcare.
Affordability barriers persist amid lower incomes, with growth tempered by competition from cheaper local fibre and 5G services.
Upcoming partnerships, such as Airtel direct-to-cell rollout in 2026, could widen access across Kenya and other African countries.
Analysts say Musk’s achievements may inspire local entrepreneurs while underscoring digital divides.
As Africa advances digitally, his unprecedented fortune represents both innovative promise and access disparities.
