Linda Yaccarino to Step Down as X CEO
X CEO Linda Yaccarino has announced her resignation two years after taking the helm. She was appointed in 2023 as the first permanent CEO hired by Elon Musk following his acquisition of the platform in 2022. Her appointment was partly aimed at stabilizing the company and addressing concerns among investors about Musk’s divided focus.
From the beginning, Yaccarino was tasked with managing significant changes within the company. She stepped into the role at a time when sweeping reforms were underway, including relaxed content moderation policies. As a result, many advertisers pulled back due to concerns over toxic content and brand safety.
A Company Under Constant Transformation
Throughout her tenure, Yaccarino worked to rebuild trust with advertisers and the broader user base. However, tensions continued, especially after Musk’s public remarks toward advertisers in late 2023 strained relationships with key partners. These challenges added pressure to the company’s already declining ad business.
In addition to advertising issues, Musk had significantly altered X’s internal operations. He cut about 75% of the workforce, reduced oversight measures, and transformed the platform into a more politically charged space. Consequently, the company struggled to maintain stable revenue streams while navigating reputational risks.
X’s Shift Toward Artificial Intelligence
In a surprising development earlier this year, Musk sold X to his AI venture, xAI, through an all-stock transaction. The deal valued X at $33 billion and xAI at $80 billion. This move highlighted the increasing overlap between Musk’s various enterprises and raised questions about X’s future direction.
Since the transaction, xAI has reportedly sought new investment at a valuation of up to $120 billion. As X transitions under the new structure, Yaccarino’s departure marks the end of a turbulent yet transformative chapter for the platform.
