There are two types of innovation. Random &quot;out there&quot; market ideas? Yes, because upstarts have to find something to upset the monopoly, so they&#x27;re self-selected to have something interesting. But long-term, <i>actual</i> innovation? Pretty much only monopolies can afford that. That includes governments, and that includes R&amp;D departments of various corporations that can stay cost centres for years before accounting notices.<p>There are of course exceptions - like Elon, who has and for whom the profitability of the company is only a secondary, supporting concern.