Tesla Inc. shareholders are increasingly betting on a merger with SpaceX as the ultimate prize, according to Bloomberg. The speculation comes as Tesla shares have lost almost 10% this year, while SpaceX completed the biggest initial public offering ever and became the most valuable entity in Elon Musk's collection. The divergence in performance has sharpened investor focus on Musk's corporate endgame.

SpaceX's blockbuster IPO has minted a new class of millionaires, many of whom are now eyeing luxury real estate as their first major purchase, Yahoo Finance reports. This wealth effect underscores the stark contrast between the two companies' fortunes. For Tesla holders, a merger would represent a chance to ride SpaceX's soaring valuation, which was not always priced into their stock.

The data from Bloomberg indicates the merger narrative has gained traction as Tesla's share price has struggled. SpaceX, by contrast, immediately leapt to become the most valuable entity in Musk's collection of companies following its IPO. While no formal proposals have been disclosed, the market chatter reflects a tangible shift in sentiment.

The implications are significant: a merger could alter the strategic landscape for both companies, blending EV and aerospace operations under one roof. Tesla shareholders would effectively gain exposure to SpaceX's high-growth business, while SpaceX would inherit Tesla's manufacturing scale. Regulators would likely scrutinize such a tie-up closely, potentially delaying any deal.

The counterargument: some analysts dismiss the merger talk as wishful thinking, noting Musk has shown no public interest in combining the two firms. Others argue SpaceX's valuation may be inflated, and merging with a struggling Tesla could dilute its premium. Without confirmation from either company, the narrative remains purely speculative.