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NEW YORK — Elon Musk is on the verge of becoming the world’s first trillionaire as his rocket company SpaceX prepares for a landmark public debut on the Nasdaq stock exchange Friday after pricing its initial public offering at $135 per share.

The move would catapult Musk, already the wealthiest person on the planet, into unprecedented financial territory. With a roughly 42% stake in SpaceX, his personal fortune could surpass $1 trillion once the shares begin trading, according to estimates tied to the company’s $1.78 trillion valuation at the offer price.

SpaceX plans to sell 555.6 million shares, raising approximately $75 billion. Underwriters hold an option for an additional 83 million shares. The IPO represents one of the largest in history and marks a significant milestone for the company founded in 2002, which has revolutionized space travel with reusable rockets and expanded global internet access through its Starlink satellite network.

Valuation and Wealth Implications

Before the IPO announcement, Musk’s net worth stood at approximately $696 billion, according to the Bloomberg Billionaires Index. The SpaceX listing is expected to add hundreds of billions to that figure, depending on early trading performance. Analysts project Musk’s stake could be valued between $743 billion and $866.5 billion at the $135 offer price.

The $1 trillion threshold is almost incomprehensible in scale. As noted by UK charity Oxfam, if Musk spent $1 million every day, it would take him 2,740 years to exhaust such a fortune. His wealth would represent roughly 3% of U.S. gross domestic product, exceeding the relative economic power of 19th-century industrial titans like John D. Rockefeller and Andrew Carnegie.

Guido Alfani, a professor of economic history at Bocconi University in Milan, Italy, offered historical perspective. “If we do this, we can surely conclude that Elon Musk might be the wealthiest person who has ever lived — excluding emperors or other rulers whose wealth is not easily distinguishable from that of the state,” Alfani told Al Jazeera. He estimated Musk could command the labor of 557,800 people in 2025, far surpassing Rockefeller’s estimated 116,000 in 1937.

Historical Comparisons and Context

Musk’s rise invites comparisons to the Gilded Age magnates who amassed vast fortunes during America’s industrial expansion. Rockefeller, Carnegie and others were both admired for their achievements and criticized as “Robber Barons” for aggressive business practices. Richard White, professor of history emeritus at Stanford University, noted the similarities in public perception. “What made them famous was that they were very good at making and keeping money. There is little sign they accomplished much else,” White told Al Jazeera.

Yet Musk diverges in several ways. While many Gilded Age tycoons became major philanthropists in their later years, Musk’s giving has largely focused on causes aligned with his business interests through the Musk Foundation and donor-advised funds. He joined the Giving Pledge in 2012 but has faced questions about the scale and direction of his charitable efforts.

Christopher Nichols, a professor of history at Ohio State University, highlighted the contrast. “When examining the Robber Barons of the Gilded Age and Progressive Era, despite their many failings, one must note that they were also the pioneers of modern large-scale philanthropy,” Nichols told Al Jazeera, referencing Carnegie’s extensive donations.

Musk’s Business Empire and Influence

SpaceX’s success builds on Musk’s broader portfolio, including Tesla, xAI and ownership of X, formerly Twitter. The companies span electric vehicles, artificial intelligence, space exploration and social media, creating a uniquely diversified empire. Musk has also taken an active role in politics, supporting former President Donald Trump’s 2024 campaign and leading efforts to reduce government spending.

This level of influence has drawn both praise and criticism. Supporters view Musk as a visionary driving humanity toward a multi-planetary future. Detractors raise concerns about concentrated power, market dominance and the societal impacts of rapid technological change.

Daniel Waldenström, a professor of economics at the Research Institute of Industrial Economics in Stockholm, cautioned that such wealth is not guaranteed to endure. “He faces competition and the market valuation of his corporations can change,” Waldenström told Al Jazeera. “It may well be that some of Musk’s assets will lose value if reality changes.”

Broader Questions on Inequality

Musk’s potential milestone has intensified debates about wealth inequality. As global economies recover from recent challenges, the gap between the ultra-wealthy and the rest of society remains a point of contention. Oxfam and other organizations have used such examples to call for stronger progressive taxation and policies addressing economic disparity.

The SpaceX IPO itself reflects strong investor appetite for high-growth technology companies tied to ambitious long-term goals. Its success could encourage further innovation in space and related sectors while raising questions about regulatory oversight and market concentration.

What Comes Next

Friday’s trading debut will provide the first real-time market verdict on SpaceX’s valuation. Opening prices for high-profile IPOs can be volatile as supply and demand find balance. Strong performance would further solidify Musk’s financial standing, while any weakness might reflect caution around elevated valuations in the technology sector.

For Musk, the transition of SpaceX to public markets brings new responsibilities to shareholders alongside his existing commitments. The company’s future will depend on execution across Starship development, Starlink expansion and potential new frontiers in space exploration.

As the countdown to Friday’s opening bell continues, global attention remains fixed on Musk and the implications of one individual approaching such extraordinary wealth. The event marks not only a corporate milestone but also a cultural moment in the ongoing conversation about innovation, power and responsibility in the modern economy.

The SpaceX IPO underscores the transformative impact of private enterprise in areas once dominated by governments. Whether Musk’s fortune ultimately benefits society on the scale of past philanthropists remains to be seen, but its sheer magnitude ensures he will remain a defining figure of this era.

Markets will render their judgment Friday, but the broader discussion about wealth, innovation and inequality is likely to continue long after the trading day ends. SpaceX’s public debut represents a new chapter for both the company and its founder, one that will be watched closely by investors, policymakers and the public alike.

Copyright ©2026 Dow Jones & Company, Inc. All Rights Reserved. 87990cbe856818d5eddac44c7b1cdeb8

Unionized workers at a

Michigan plant producing a key component for General Motors

GM

1.83%

increase; up pointing triangle trucks have reached a tentative agreement for a new labor contract following a 10-day strike.

“After 18 years of sacrifice, these workers are finally winning back a big chunk of what was taken from them,” United Auto Workers union President Shawn Fain said.

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Analyst’s Disclosure: I/we have no stock, option or similar derivative position in any of the companies mentioned, and no plans to initiate any such positions within the next 72 hours. I wrote this article myself, and it expresses my own opinions. I am not receiving compensation for it (other than from Seeking Alpha). I have no business relationship with any company whose stock is mentioned in this article.

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TORONTO — Canada will open its 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign on Friday against Bosnia and Herzegovina at BMO Field, with the home side entering as clear favorites in a Group B match that carries significant implications for advancement in the expanded 48-team tournament.

Kickoff is scheduled for 3 p.m. ET. According to FanDuel Sportsbook, Canada is listed at -120 on the 90-minute money line, Bosnia and Herzegovina at +360 and a draw at +240. The over/under for total goals is set at 2.5. SportsLine expert Martin Green, who has gone 18-8 on recent Champions League picks, is leaning toward the Over 2.5 goals in this matchup.

Team Form and Key Players

Canada, ranked 30th in the FIFA standings, is eager to advance past the group stage for the first time in its history. The team boasts attacking talent including forwards Cyle Larin and Jonathan David. Larin has scored 30 goals in 90 appearances for the national team, while David has netted 39 times in 77 matches.

Bosnia and Herzegovina, ranked 64th, features veteran striker Edin Džeko as its standout performer. The 40-year-old has scored 73 goals in 148 appearances for his country. Despite the ranking difference, Bosnia has shown scoring capability, finding the net in six of its last seven matches, including multiple goals in recent friendlies and qualifiers.

Green highlighted the potential for goals. “The teams look evenly matched, and both of them should find the back of the net in this game, but home advantage may ultimately prove decisive for Canada,” he said.

Group B Context

Group B also includes Mexico and Paraguay, making every point valuable in the expanded format. The top two teams from each group advance automatically to the round of 32, with the eight best third-place finishers also progressing. This structure provides more opportunities for teams like Canada to make history.

A strong result in the opener would set a positive tone for Canada, which benefits from home support in Toronto. Bosnia will need to be resilient on the road and capitalize on counterattacking opportunities against a motivated Canadian side.

Tactical Outlook and Betting Considerations

Canada is expected to control possession and press high, leveraging its home advantage and attacking depth. Bosnia may sit deeper and look for transitions through Džeko and midfield creators. The over/under line at 2.5 goals reflects expectations of an open contest, with Green favoring the Over based on recent scoring trends for both sides.

SportsLine’s analysis suggests Canada should fare better overall this summer, but individual matches will test execution and adaptability. The 90-minute money line favors the hosts, though a draw remains a plausible outcome given Bosnia’s experience.

Historical Significance for Canada

This marks Canada’s return to the World Cup stage after previous appearances. Advancing from the group would represent a major achievement for the program and boost domestic football development. Home matches in the group stage provide a significant advantage, with passionate crowds expected at BMO Field.

Bosnia and Herzegovina aims to reach the knockout stage for the first time. The team’s blend of veteran leadership and younger contributors offers a mix of stability and potential, though the road fixture against Canada presents an immediate challenge.

Broader Tournament Implications

The 2026 World Cup’s expanded format has already delivered competitive early matches. Group B shapes up as balanced, with Canada and Mexico viewed as the primary contenders for top spots. Results in Friday’s opener could influence tactical approaches in subsequent fixtures.

Global audiences will watch closely as co-host nations and traditional powers navigate the opening round. Canada’s performance carries extra weight as one of the host countries, with national pride and long-term program goals on the line.

Preparation and Fan Expectations

Both teams have used recent friendlies and training camps to fine-tune strategies. Canada’s home advantage includes familiarity with conditions and vocal supporter backing. Bosnia will rely on tactical discipline to neutralize Canada’s attacking threats.

Fans in Toronto and across Canada are anticipated to create an electric atmosphere. Broadcast coverage will make the match accessible to domestic and international viewers, with streaming options available for those unable to attend in person.

What to Watch

Key storylines include Canada’s ability to convert home pressure into goals, Bosnia’s counterattacking efficiency, and individual performances from Larin, David and Džeko. Set-piece execution and midfield control could prove decisive in a match expected to feature end-to-end action.

Green’s recommendation for the Over 2.5 goals aligns with both teams’ recent scoring patterns. Bettors will monitor line movements and injury updates as kickoff approaches.

Conclusion and Series Outlook

Canada enters Friday’s match as the favorite, supported by home soil and superior recent form. Bosnia and Herzegovina faces a difficult assignment but possesses the talent to cause problems on the counter. The result will shape Group B standings and set the tone for both teams’ tournament ambitions.

As the 2026 World Cup continues, matches like this highlight the competitiveness of the expanded field. Canada has the opportunity to make a statement in front of its supporters, while Bosnia seeks a positive result to build momentum. The afternoon clash at BMO Field promises an intriguing start to Group B play with significant stakes for both nations.

The expanded tournament format rewards strong starts, making Friday’s opener particularly important. Fans worldwide will tune in to see whether Canada can capitalize on home advantage or if Bosnia can pull off an upset in Toronto.