Elon Musk’s genius is difficult to synthesise because each part reinforces the others, beginning with a philosophical vulnerability: humanity lives on one rock.

The Elon Musk brand, the frenzy around artificial intelligence and the sharemarket’s structure have combined to defy conventional analysis of the company’s value.

SpaceX's critics said its eye-popping valuation wasn't justified heading into its IPO. It's turning into a hidden weapon.