[Musk's Public Statement May Delay SpaceX and Tesla Merger Talks by Several Weeks] According to Reuters, sources familiar with the matter revealed that Musk publicly confirmed this week that SpaceX and Tesla are evaluating a merger and expressed his support. Some participants in the negotiations are concerned that this move may lead Tesla shareholders to focus more on conflict-of-interest issues, potentially delaying the talks by several weeks and subjecting them to longer legal scrutiny. During an investor conference call on Tuesday, Musk stated that both companies have established a special committee, and he is not participating in discussions due to conflicts of interest. The deal is still in its early stages, with proposals under discussion including SpaceX acquiring Tesla or the creation of a new holding company to merge the two entities. The transaction could be valued at approximately $3.5 trillion. Musk owns nearly one-fifth of Tesla's shares and slightly less than half of SpaceX's shares.