The Successes/Failures of Elon Musk

SpaceX is planning on its second launch in a week and the 7th of this year. The launch will be using a used Falcon 9 1st stage booster. The pace of launches is crushing the competition and it's being done at reduced costs.

https://www.wired.com/story/spacex-14-iss-cargo-mission/

Meanwhile, things are getting scary at Tesla. Model 3 production has been plagued by delays. A large negative cash flow, mostly due to the high costs of implementing the Model 3 mass production, is leading to a cash crunch for the company. Recently it's debt rating has been reduced as a result. Also, Tesla's acquisition of Solar City is being contested by Tesla shareholders.

http://www.businessinsider.com/critical-week-tesla-history-debt-stock-2018-4

Elon Musk is undoubtedly a polarizing individual. He sets large goals and often misses them. It's also true however that sometimes he achieves what others deem impossible. Watching Tesla struggle even as SpaceX thrives creates mixed feelings for both supporters and those who think he's a charlatan. It will be interesting to see how the next few years pan out.

I myself am impressed with Elon Musk and would like to see him succeed. However, I do feel like he's a guy who just keeps doubling down, even after success. I'm worried it will eventually catch up with him on both companies. I hope I'm wrong.