Multiple buyers, including Oracle, Microsoft, and Perplexity AI, in race to acquire TikTok (report)
Jan 27, 2025 - musicbusinessworldwide.com
Tech giants Oracle, Microsoft, and AI startup Perplexity are in the running to acquire TikTok’s operations as ByteDance faces pressure from US regulatory requirements to divest. President Donald Trump has confirmed discussions with several parties, expressing significant interest in TikTok. The Trump administration is reportedly in talks with Oracle, which is interested in investing heavily in TikTok, and a plan is being considered where ByteDance retains a minority stake while Oracle manages the app’s algorithm and data. Perplexity AI has proposed a merger with TikTok’s US business, potentially allowing up to 50% government ownership after a public offering valued at $300 billion.
Other notable figures, including Elon Musk and Kevin O’Leary, have shown interest in the acquisition, while Walmart has withdrawn from discussions due to pricing concerns. The urgency for a deal has increased following Trump’s executive order extending the deadline for ByteDance’s divestment. TikTok, with 170 million American users, faces a potential ban if an agreement is not reached.
Key takeaways:
Oracle, Microsoft, and AI startup Perplexity are contenders to acquire TikTok’s operations as ByteDance faces US regulatory pressure to divest.
Donald Trump confirmed discussions with several parties regarding TikTok's purchase, with a decision likely within 30 days.
Oracle is reportedly interested in investing "tens of billions" in TikTok, with a plan involving ByteDance retaining a minority stake.
Perplexity AI proposed a new entity combining its operations with TikTok’s US business, potentially allowing up to 50% government ownership.
