MacKenzie Bezos. Photo : Greg Doherty | Patrick McMullan | Getty Images
The rivalry between Elon Musk et Jeff Bezos is not from yesterday. The two entrepreneurs have been competing for years on multiple grounds: space exploration with SpaceX and Blue Origin, electric cars with Tesla in the face of Amazon’s investments in Rivian, or even satellites with their respective projects Starlink and Project Kuiper. Their bitter exchanges on social media and legal battles over government contracts shaped one of Silicon Valley’s most famous feuds. This time, it is in the area of philanthropy that the tension resurfaces, with Elon Musk targeting MacKenzie Scottthe ex-wife of Jeff Bezos.
A philanthropic approach that is debated
MacKenzie Scott redistributed $16 billion in five years via its initiative « Yield Giving“, becoming one of the most active philanthropists of contemporary times. Its method of unconditional donations to more than 2,500 non-profit organizations contrasts with traditional practices. In 2024, it even innovated by launching an open application process, resulting in $640 million being awarded to more than 360 organizations. His generosity notably benefited CAMFEDsupporting the education of girls in Africa, which received three successive donations, and Enterprise Community Partnersrecipient of a surprise additional donation of $65 million after a first contribution of $50 million in 2020.
A controversy that reignites tensions
Elon Musk described as “ of concern » the philanthropic efforts of MacKenzie Scott, reacting to criticism pointing out the alleged ideological orientation of his donations. Critics say its funding favors causes like racial equity, immigrant rights and justice LGBTQfeeding what they call a « complexe ONG/non-profit ». They suggest that these donations mainly create jobs for graduates seeking professional legitimacy, rather than responding to major global challenges. Despite these controversies, Scott’s fortune remains considerable, estimated at $36 billion, benefiting from the continued rise in Amazon’s stock price.
