With political roadblocks cleared, Tesla and Starlink are finally entering India. But with growing global resistance, can Elon Musk sustain his empire amidst financial and political turmoil?
BY PC Bureau
Elon Musk’s Tesla is facing a turbulent period, with sales nosediving, stock prices plunging, and organized protests disrupting operations. Behind these mounting challenges lies a deeper political and financial battle, involving key figures such as George Soros, LinkedIn co-founder Reid Hoffman, and former U.S. President Donald Trump. As Tesla fights to maintain its global standing, Musk’s ability to navigate these headwinds will determine the company’s future.
The India Market: A Crucial Lifeline for Tesla
With Tesla struggling in key markets, India has emerged as a critical opportunity. After years of regulatory roadblocks, Musk has successfully removed hurdles that had previously stalled Tesla’s entry into the country. The Indian government, which had resisted lowering import duties for foreign EV manufacturers, has now eased restrictions, paving the way for Tesla’s expansion.
Starlink, Musk’s satellite internet service, is also set to launch in India, further strengthening his foothold in the region. Political maneuvering is suspected behind these recent developments, with reports suggesting that Musk secured key approvals with the backing of Donald Trump and his political allies.
Tesla Targeted: The Role of Political Funding and Protests
At the same time, Tesla is facing increasing resistance in the U.S. and Europe. Left-leaning groups, including the Indivisible Project, Disruption Project, and Rise & Resist, have launched aggressive protests against Musk, with some demonstrations escalating into violent attacks on Tesla facilities. A recent investigation revealed that one of these groups received $7.6 million from George Soros’s Open Society Foundations, raising questions about whether these protests are politically motivated.
Musk has also accused Reid Hoffman, the LinkedIn co-founder and a Democratic donor, of funding anti-Tesla activism. Hoffman, in turn, has denied any direct involvement but has criticized Musk’s leadership and his fallout with OpenAI. The growing backlash against Musk has also been fueled by his controversial political views and management decisions, alienating parts of his customer base and investors.
Tesla's historic collapse
continues. Massive sell-off
and many elite are now embarrassed to own one
because of Musk’s horrid venture
into U.S. politics.
Today… down 14%.
$38 drop, currently $224.
$110+ billion valuation loss.
Trump economics. pic.twitter.com/54LCyEBYoR— Deke Bridges (@dekebridges) March 10, 2025
Trump’s Financial Decline and Tesla’s Market Struggles
While Musk faces an uphill battle, his key political ally, Donald Trump, is also dealing with financial setbacks. Trump’s net worth soared to $6.5 billion in March 2024 following the public listing of Trump Media & Technology Group (TMTG). However, just a few months later, the company’s stock crashed by over 65%, wiping out billions from Trump’s fortune. By the end of 2024, Trump’s net worth had fallen to around $4.3 billion, and he had yet to offload any TMTG shares.
This financial decline could weaken Trump’s ability to support Musk politically, especially as Tesla faces increasing scrutiny from the Biden administration and Democratic-led regulatory agencies.
The Battle Ahead: Can Musk Overcome the Attacks?
With Tesla’s stock taking a hit and organized efforts against Musk intensifying, the battle for the company’s survival is far from over. Musk’s push into India could provide much-needed relief, but geopolitical tensions, regulatory battles, and political vendettas continue to shape the company’s future.
As Tesla fights on multiple fronts—business, politics, and public perception—Musk’s next moves will be crucial. Whether he can turn the tide or whether these coordinated attacks will take a lasting toll on his empire remains to be seen.
