Interest rates went from almost zero to real rates. If you’re sitting on a pile of money you can invest it in internet companies with crazy valuations and no profit or near zero-risk Treasury Bills and interest-bearing certificates.

Many investors know they are betting on the greater fool instead of any real value in these internet companies. There are now fewer greater fools.

If your business model was to give out free stuff paid for by piles of investor money, you suddenly had to find cash to keep the lights on.

Elon has to pay $1B in interest every year for Twitter. That’s still a lot of money.

Elon being a cartoon villian gave other people cover to do the same. You’re less likely to be singled out by the media.Your taking candy from a baby is just part of the trend or the run of bad luck falling on those poor billionaires.