⇧ [VIDÉO] You might also like this partner content
Since the acquisition of Twitter (now X) by Elon Musk for the colossal sum of $ 44 billion, the platform is going through an unprecedented financial and social crisis. A recently disclosed internal email shows that Musk himself has recognized it: “Our user growth stagnates, the income is not very convincing, and we are barely in balance”, he admits. This declaration, coming directly from Musk, highlights the current difficulties of the company.
In addition to this stagnation, X is still overwhelmed by a massive debt of $ 13 billion. Banking establishments having financed the purchase come up against exorbitant payments of interest, making this transaction one of the most disastrous in the sector, as reported by the Wall Street Journal, which validated the authenticity of the internal email recently disclosed . This financial burden, illustrated by a debt valued at several billion dollars, seriously compromises the company’s recovery capacity.
Controversial leadership and its repercussions
The unpredictable management of Musk, characterized by inconstant behaviors and controversial declarations, caused the withdrawal of many advertisers, depriving X of part of its main source of income.
Bruce Daisley, former director of European operations of Twitter, says that the diversification of income sources, beyond advertising, is “strategically a good idea”, but that it was poorly implemented. “” The changes he has brought, in particular the introduction of paid verification, have helped to reduce the quality of the platform. Add to that arbitrary decisions, and the advertisers said: ‘We do not want to be associated with this’ He explains to the Guardian.
Faced with this situation, rival platforms like Meta and Bluesky threads have emerged, attracting users disenchanted by X. These platforms have gained popularity since 2023, offering more moderate and attractive environments that seek to avoid hate speech growing on X.
-The acquisition of X by Musk exacerbated social and political divisions. According to a study published by Pew Research, republican users now see the platform with a good eye, while the Democrats move away from it. This growing polarization raises concerns about the influence of the social network on public debate.
See also
The uncertain future of a changing platform
Experts agree that X Musk’s acquisition is one of the most debated business decisions in recent years. “” The buyout of Twitter by Musk could well be one of the most discussed business decisions of our time “Says an analyst in a Brookings article. The fears persist as to a deregulation capable of promoting disinformation and weakening the standards of public discourse.
While 2025 opens, X is at a crossroads, torn between the excessive ambitions of Musk and the realities of a ruthless market. If the platform manages to overcome its financial and social challenges, it could reinvent itself in a space for renewed dialogue. However, the question remains: Will Musk be able to transform this vision into reality without losing the soul of what has long made Twitter a unique place of exchanges? Only a careful look at his next decisions will be able to enlighten us on the fate of this digital icon.
