Who is Ross Gerber—Tesla investor demanding Musk's resignation as CEO?
What's the story
Tesla investor Ross Gerber has publicly called for Elon Musk to step down as CEO of the electric vehicle (EV) manufacturer.
Gerber, who is also the CEO of Gerber Kawasaki Wealth and Investment Management, expressed his concerns over Musk's divided attention.
He believes this distraction is negatively impacting Tesla's performance and reputation.
"There's no question [Musk] has been committed to his job at the government, that's where he's spending his time. He is not running Tesla," he told Sky News.
Stock decline
Tesla's stock value has dropped by 37% in 2025
Gerber's demand for Musk to resign comes as Tesla's stock value has plummeted by 37% in 2025.
The company's showrooms and facilities have also been vandalized by demonstrators protesting Musk's radical ideas.
Gerber owns more than 250,000 shares of Tesla stock, which was worth $248.71 per share last Friday.
This massive decline in share value has alarmed investors about the company's future under Musk's leadership.
Board negligence
Gerber questions board's inaction amid brand value erosion
Gerber has also questioned the board's inaction during this time of crisis.
He criticized them for letting Musk take on additional responsibilities without first finding a replacement for his role at Tesla.
"Why has the board of directors sat quietly while so much brand value has been eroded to the point that cars are being set on fire?" he asked.
"It's been wildly negligent that the board has done nothing to curb Elon behavior, especially around extremist statements," Gerber added.
Board dynamics
He doubts board will remove Musk
Despite his strong stance, Gerber doubted the board would remove Musk from his position.
He claimed the board "solely functions at the benefit of Elon" and has been "highly compensated" by him.
"They're not going to do anything he doesn't say," Gerber said, implying Musk's influence over the company goes beyond just being the CEO.
This dynamic within the board could make any potential leadership change at Tesla difficult.
Divergent views
Not all Tesla investors share Gerber's opinion
Not all Tesla investors agree with Gerber on Musk stepping down. Christopher Tsai, another major investor in the company, voiced his support for Musk.
While admitting that Musk does "introduce a fair amount of noise," Tsai said he has the "highest regard" for the company's CEO.
He thinks Musk's DOGE involvement would be temporary and based on past actions, hinting at a more optimistic view on Musk's leadership among some investors.