With the November 6 shareholder meeting approaching, Elon Musk used Tesla’s earnings call as a platform to make a direct appeal for his trillion-dollar compensation package. The world’s wealthiest individual spent the call’s final moments criticizing proxy advisors and explaining his need for continued influence over the company.
Tesla’s earnings discussion had proceeded through standard topics including AI development, robotaxi services, and the Optimus robot program before Musk’s unexpected takeover. The CEO’s intervention demonstrated the personal importance he places on securing shareholder approval for his compensation plan.
Musk articulated his position that he requires sufficient voting control to guide Tesla’s ambitious technology projects while remaining accountable to shareholders. His self-aware comment about the possibility of being fired “if I go insane” added a touch of humor to an otherwise serious discussion about corporate governance.
The CEO directed his most intense criticism toward ISS and Glass Lewis, claiming these proxy advisory services lack proper understanding of Tesla’s business and strategic objectives. Musk characterized their recommendations against his pay package as detrimental to shareholder interests and potentially threatening to his continued leadership.
CFO Vaibhav Taneja provided closing arguments in favor of the compensation plan, explaining that the board structured it to ensure Musk only benefits when shareholders achieve meaningful returns. The CFO stressed the alignment of interests between executive compensation and investor gains, making multiple appeals for shareholder support before concluding the call.