Musk's net worth soared to $852 billion this week, a record high. This is largely due to the merger of two of his companies, SpaceX and xAI, which will lead to a high-profile IPO later this year. Yet even with more wealth than anyone in history, Musk doesn’t seem to believe that money in a bank account translates into personal satisfaction.
"Who said 'money can't buy happiness'? That's so right." Musk wrote on the X platform two days ago. The post has now been viewed more than 100 million times.
The remarks sparked widespread reactions on his social platforms, including from some of the ultra-rich who have faced the same predicament. Hedge fund billionaire Bill Ackman had some pointed advice for Musk.
"A lot of happiness comes from helping others. You have helped millions of people and will probably help billions in the future. Just be grateful that you have contributed to so many people," Ackerman wrote.
Ackerman also said that perhaps Musk should find a long-term partner to settle down. "Happiness can also come from a long-term relationship with a special person. It's time to find the person who can be with you for a long time. This is just my humble opinion."
Billionaire investor Mark Cuban agrees with Musk to an extent, but he also said that linking wealth to happiness is not black and white. In essence, money does not fundamentally change happiness, but only amplifies existing happiness.
“If you’re happy when you’re poor, you’ll be extremely happy when you’re rich,” Cuban countered Musk. “If you were miserable when you were poor, you will still be miserable when you are rich, but the financial stress will be much less.”