I think your question is based on a false premise that scientists get more autonomy and more autonomy means a greater chance to make impact. Just getting a PhD

I think your question is based on a false premise that scientists get more autonomy and more autonomy means a greater chance to make impact. Just getting a PhD would not gaurentee either or these. To make deep impact in industry you would have to assemble or work with "A" grade teams. Academic PhDs seldom do that, more often than not PhD is an individual effort. Some skills might transfer but PhD is typically not structured to impart skillset that would directly contribute to growth in industry. I would personally think getting into industry after Master's is a better choice.