Core Insights - SpaceX has acquired xAI in a $1.25 trillion merger, consolidating Musk's business empire as SpaceX prepares for a public offering later this year [1][2] Group 1: Merger Details - The merger aims to create a vertically-integrated innovation engine combining AI, rockets, space-based internet, and direct-to-mobile communications [2] - SpaceX is valued at $1 trillion, while xAI is valued at $250 billion, positioning the combined entity for a stock market float exceeding $1 trillion [4] - The float is anticipated to coincide with a planetary alignment and Musk's birthday in early summer [4] Group 2: Strategic Rationale - The acquisition is driven by Musk's vision for space-based datacenters to support AI, addressing the limitations of terrestrial datacenters in meeting global electricity demand [5] - Musk's recent business strategies have increasingly intertwined his companies through various deals and acquisitions [5] Group 3: Company Valuations and Market Position - SpaceX has received significant valuations, with an expected value of $800 billion as it dominates satellite launches and secures government contracts [6] - xAI has also seen a rise in valuation, recently announcing a $20 billion Series E fundraise, valuing the company at $230 billion [7] Group 4: Market Context - The merger announcement comes amid challenges for Musk, including declining revenues at Tesla and negative publicity related to his communications with Jeffrey Epstein [9][10]
Elon Musk merges SpaceX with xAI at $1.25tn valuation
The Guardian·2026-02-03 07:25