Bloomberg Talks Palmer Luckey Talks Tech
Jan 7, 2026
Palmer Luckey, founder of Anduril Industries and Mod Retro, is a trailblazer in defense tech and consumer hardware. He discusses his salary of $100k and supports Trump's call for accountability in defense payouts. Luckey also highlights China's dominance in drone manufacturing and the challenges faced in developing counter-drone technology. Additionally, he shares insights on a new, simplified TV design that prioritizes functionality, alongside his passion for creating retro gaming consoles. It's a fascinating glimpse into the intersection of tech and defense!
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Episode notes
Read Buybacks Differently From Dividends
- Differentiate between buybacks and dividends when assessing corporate priorities; treat dividends as problematic if defense contractors underinvest.
- Prefer buybacks when companies truly reinvest in themselves and expect better futures.
Accept Oversight When Using Public Funds
- If you take taxpayer money, accept public oversight and restrictions on pay and dividends until you meet obligations.
- Use government-imposed limits tactically to push companies to invest in plants, factories, and timely delivery.
Luckey's Personal Pay And Ownership
- Palmer Luckey says he pays himself $100,000 a year and owns a large stake in Anduril.
- He notes the proposed $5 million cap targets large public firms, not new-company founders with concentrated ownership.
