What will happen to TikTok? A look at the potential buyers.
Feb 01, 2025 - engadget.com
TikTok's future in the United States remains uncertain despite being back online. President Trump's executive order has temporarily delayed the enforcement of a ban, giving ByteDance 75 days to reach an agreement. Several parties have shown interest in acquiring TikTok's US operations, including Oracle, Microsoft, Perplexity AI, and a group led by MrBeast. Oracle, previously involved in a failed 2020 deal, is working with the Trump Administration on a plan involving outside investors. Microsoft has also expressed interest, having previously attempted to acquire TikTok in 2020. Perplexity AI proposed a structure where the US government could own up to half of a new entity, while MrBeast and other high-net-worth individuals are considering an all-cash offer.
Additionally, Project Liberty, led by Frank McCourt and Kevin O’Leary, has proposed a bid, though legal concerns about government stakes remain. TikTok is currently unavailable in app stores and could face further disruptions if no deal is reached. Both ByteDance and the US government appear more open to negotiations than before, but the situation is fluid and may evolve as discussions continue.
Key takeaways:
TikTok's future in the US is uncertain, with various companies and individuals expressing interest in acquiring it.
Oracle is working on a plan with the Trump Administration to take control of TikTok's global operations, with ByteDance retaining a minority stake.
Microsoft and Perplexity AI are also interested in acquiring TikTok, with Perplexity proposing a plan involving the US government owning a stake.
Other potential buyers include YouTuber MrBeast and a group called Project Liberty, led by investor Frank McCourt and Kevin O'Leary.
