Analysis-Musk's Tesla package pays him billions even if he misses 'Mars-shot' goals

Core Insights - Tesla's board has proposed an unprecedented executive pay package for Elon Musk, potentially worth $878 billion over 10 years, contingent on achieving significant milestones in transforming Tesla and society [1][2] - Despite the ambitious nature of the goals, analysis suggests Musk could earn tens of billions without meeting most targets, with a possibility of collecting over $50 billion by achieving only a few easier objectives [3] - Achieving just two of the simpler targets, along with modest stock growth, could yield Musk $26 billion, surpassing the combined lifetime pay of the next eight highest-paid CEOs [4] Performance Goals - Musk's vehicle sales targets are considered relatively easy, with a projection of selling 1.2 million cars annually over the next decade potentially resulting in $8.2 billion in stock compensation, assuming Tesla's market value increases from $1.4 trillion to $2 trillion by 2035 [5] - The recent introduction of lower-cost versions of the Model Y SUV and Model 3 sedan aims to counteract declining sales, while other product development goals are vaguely defined, allowing for substantial payouts without significantly enhancing profits [6] Compensation Structure - The Tesla board emphasized that the proposed pay package is effectively worth nothing to Musk unless shareholders see a near doubling of the company's value and operational milestones are achieved [7] - Musk must remain an executive for at least seven-and-a-half years to receive any stock compensation, although he would gain voting rights associated with the shares as soon as they are earned [7]