Tesla(US:TSLA) The Times Of India·2026-01-30 08:36Core Viewpoint - SpaceX is exploring potential mergers with Tesla and xAI, with discussions ongoing about the feasibility of these combinations, which could attract significant interest from investors and infrastructure funds [2][6]. Group 1: Merger Discussions - Internal talks at SpaceX have focused on a possible merger with Tesla, encouraged by some investors, while also evaluating a combination with xAI ahead of a potential IPO [2][6]. - Any merger involving SpaceX could require substantial financing and may support Musk's vision of utilizing orbital data centers for advanced AI computing [2][7]. Group 2: Space-based Data Centers and AI Strategy - A merger with xAI could enable the AI company to utilize space-based computing capacity, contingent on overcoming technical challenges [3][7]. - SpaceX has considered using satellites and orbital infrastructure to manage large-scale AI workloads, with Tesla's energy storage systems potentially powering these space-based data centers [4][7]. Group 3: Tesla's Market Response - Following reports of potential merger discussions, Tesla shares increased by 4.5% in after-hours trading, despite a 3.5% decline during regular trading, resulting in a market capitalization of approximately $1.56 trillion [4][7]. Group 4: IPO Plans - SpaceX is contemplating a public listing as early as June, aiming to raise up to $50 billion, which would mark the largest IPO in history [5][7]. - Major financial institutions, including Bank of America, Goldman Sachs, JPMorgan Chase, and Morgan Stanley, are expected to act as lead underwriters for the IPO [5][7].