TikTok sale US: Beijing allegedly explores selling to Elon Musk as ban looms
Chinese officials are reportedly discussing selling TikTok’s US operations to billionaire Elon Musk as an impending ban threatens the app’s future in America, according to Bloomberg News. The potential TikTok sale US to Musk has raised eyebrows amid ongoing political tensions. However, TikTok dismissed the report as “pure fiction.”
The talks are said to be preliminary, with Beijing favouring TikTok remaining under parent company ByteDance’s control. Despite this preference, the report suggests TikTok’s US operations could be sold through a government-arranged process, potentially diminishing ByteDance’s hold on its American segment.
ByteDance, which holds a “golden share” owned by the Chinese government, has faced scrutiny from US lawmakers who argue this stake grants Beijing influence over TikTok. While TikTok asserts this share has no impact on its operations outside China, critics remain unconvinced, citing national security risks.
One proposed scenario involves Elon Musk’s social media platform, X, collaborating with TikTok’s US branch, should Musk take control. However, details on ByteDance’s involvement, or whether Musk has engaged in any discussions, remain unclear.
Embed from Getty ImagesTikTok’s spokesperson categorically denied the claims, stating, “We can’t be expected to comment on pure fiction.” Similarly, ByteDance, Musk, and China’s Cyberspace Administration have not responded to requests for comment.
This development coincides with the US Supreme Court’s deliberations over a law that could force TikTok’s sale or ban by 19 January due to security concerns.
With TikTok’s future hanging in the balance, the potential sale to Musk could signal a seismic shift in the global social media landscape, should these talks materialise.
The potential TikTok sale US to Elon Musk comes amid growing pressure from US lawmakers and regulators, who are increasingly concerned about the app’s data privacy practices and its ties to China. Should the sale go through, it could reshape the social media landscape, as Musk’s involvement with the platform could introduce new features or strategic changes to TikTok’s operations in the US market.
While the possibility of a sale remains speculative, the situation highlights the ongoing tension between China and the US over tech sovereignty and national security concerns. As discussions continue, the future of TikTok in America remains uncertain, with stakeholders eagerly awaiting any official announcements regarding the outcome of these high-stakes talks.
