How X Could Transform Musk's Empire?
Much has been made of Elon Musk's $44 billion purchase of Twitter, especially given the platform's declining revenue and user base. While Musk might like to see himself as a master businessman, his reasons for buying Twitter seem less about profit and more about political influence.
The Seeds of Acquisition
Musk's interest in Twitter can be traced back to a 2020 tweet where he discussed the Bolivian coup, which ousted President Evo Morales. Rumours suggest that the U.S. was involved, driven by a desire to control Bolivia's vast lithium reserves. This is significant because lithium is crucial for electric vehicle batteries, a key product for Musk's Tesla.
Twitter as a Political Tool
The Bolivian coup was reportedly amplified by thousands of fake Twitter accounts, suggesting that the platform can be used to manipulate public opinion. Musk, recognising this power, saw Twitter as a way to influence politics in favour of his business interests.
A Pattern of Behaviour
Musk has since used Twitter to support allies and oppose governments that hinder his projects. For example, he criticized Brazil's government for removing profiles that spread misinformation about the 2022 election, likely because the previous president, a Musk ally, was ousted.
Beyond Free Speech
Musk often frames his actions as a defence of free speech. However, his selective support for "free speech" in certain countries while remaining silent in others suggests that his primary goal is to advance his business interests.
The Ultimate Payoff
While Musk may be losing money on Twitter, the long-term benefits could be significant. By influencing governments to support his projects, he could reap substantial profits. The initial investment in Twitter might seem risky, but it could be a shrewd political move.
