CEO with $10M retirement savings refuses wife’s holiday plan, says ‘we’re broke’

by

Alpha AI CEO Kevin Xu has stirred a heated debate on social media after saying that he refused to take his wife on a vacation, despite having nearly $10 million set aside for retirement.

In a now-viral post that has racked up more than 16 million views, Xu broke down his finances in stark terms. “401k $9.8mil. Checking $3000. Savings $296. Wife – Let’s go on vacation? Me – Can’t, we’re broke. Few understand,” he tweeted.

His tweet triggered a flood of reactions. Many were baffled at how a man with millions could deny his wife a simple holiday. But the viral post also struck a chord with those who felt Xu’s approach reflected financial discipline. Supporters defended his strict long-term mindset, while critics argued that saving at the cost of living is an unhealthy balance.

“You’re not managing your money and life correctly if you have a $10M net worth and are telling your wife you can’t go on vacation,” one user argued.

Others mocked the situation, with one commenter writing, “May this love never find me.” Another joked, “Broo, treat your wife a little bit 😭.”

“Don’t live during retirement, live now,” one user wrote, adding, “Why not enjoy yourself while you have energy? You could die at 50.”

Another pointedly asked, “When will you enjoy your money? When you’re too old to be active? When you’re dead? Money is a tool for freedom, not a trophy for your grave.”

Xu himself doubled down in the comments, explaining, “Hard to enjoy life with only $5M (after tax and early penalty withdrawal). Need at least $20M to really enjoy life.”