Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Pentagon Official Profits Millions from Musk's AI Venture

4/10/2026

25 3 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Emil Michael, an official in the US Department of War, profited between $5 million and $25 million by selling his stake in Elon Musk's AI company xAI.
His investment, valued up to $1 million when he joined, raised concerns about conflicts of interest.
The Pentagon stated Michael complied with ethics laws, despite criticism from ethics experts.
Michael has promoted AI within the military and engaged in disputes with AI contractors.

1 of 1

Story summary

Emil Michael, an official in the US Department of War, profited between $5 million and $25 million by selling his stake in Elon Musk's AI company xAI.
His investment, valued up to $1 million when he joined, raised concerns about conflicts of interest.
The Pentagon stated Michael complied with ethics laws, despite criticism from ethics experts.
Michael has promoted AI within the military and engaged in disputes with AI contractors.