In a recent interview on the “Verdict with Ted Cruz” podcast, Elon Musk, the CEO of Tesla and SpaceX, identified three individuals he considers among the smartest he knows: Oracle co-founder Larry Ellison, Amazon founder Jeff Bezos, and Google co-founder Larry Page.
Larry Ellison co-founded Oracle Corporation in 1977, establishing it as a leading enterprise software company. Under his leadership, Oracle became a dominant force in database management systems and enterprise solutions. Ellison’s strategic vision and business acumen have been instrumental in Oracle’s sustained growth and innovation. As of March 2025, Ellison’s net worth is estimated at $224 billion, making him one of the world’s wealthiest individuals.
Jeff Bezos: Architect of Amazon’s Empire
Jeff Bezos founded Amazon in 1994, transforming it from an online bookstore into a global e-commerce and cloud computing giant. His relentless focus on customer satisfaction and innovation has driven Amazon’s expansion into various sectors, including entertainment and artificial intelligence. Despite stepping down as CEO in 2021, Bezos remains actively involved as the company’s chairman. His ventures also extend to space exploration with Blue Origin. As of March 2025, Bezos’s net worth is approximately $233.5 billion, positioning him among the top echelons of global wealth.
Larry Page: Pioneering Google’s Success
Larry Page co-founded Google in 1998, revolutionizing the way information is accessed and organized on the internet. His development of the PageRank algorithm was foundational to Google’s search engine success. Beyond search, Page has been involved in various innovative projects under Alphabet Inc., Google’s parent company, exploring advancements in technology and transportation. His contributions have significantly shaped the digital landscape, influencing how billions interact with information daily.
During the podcast, Musk emphasized that intelligence is best measured by tangible achievements, stating, “To some degree, smart is as smart does.” This perspective highlights his appreciation for individuals who translate their intellect into impactful ventures and innovations.
Musk’s recognition of Ellison, Bezos, and Page underscores the interconnected nature of the technology industry, where leading figures often influence and inspire each other’s work. These relationships have fostered a culture of continuous innovation, driving technological advancements that shape modern society.
Elon Musk’s acknowledgment of Larry Ellison, Jeff Bezos, and Larry Page as some of the smartest individuals he knows sheds light on the qualities he values: visionary thinking, the ability to execute complex ideas, and the drive to create transformative technologies. These tech titans have not only amassed significant wealth but have also left an indelible mark on the world through their respective enterprises.
