What will happen to TikTok? A look at the potential buyers.

TikTok's US future is unclear; multiple companies, including Oracle and Microsoft, consider buying it amid Trump's ban concerns.

: The future of TikTok is uncertain in the US as President Donald Trump continues to push for a deal to prevent a ban. Oracle, previously tied to TikTok through Project Texas, and Microsoft are potential buyers, each wanting to oversee TikTok's operations. A new bid involves Perplexity AI, proposing government ownership in a $300 billion IPO, while MrBeast explores potential acquisition amid multiple offers. With varied interests and negotiations ongoing, the outcome for TikTok's business remains highly uncertain and dependent on forthcoming agreements.

TikTok's situation in the United States remains precarious due to ongoing government negotiations and potential acquisition offers. President Donald Trump's time-sensitive executive order requiring a deal within 75 days adds urgency. Trump expressed interest in a US government stake in TikTok and hinted at a 'bidding war' among interested parties, without specifying these contenders.

A few key companies have emerged as interested parties in acquiring TikTok's US operations. Oracle, known for its existing data hosting relationship with TikTok, is working alongside investors to potentially control TikTok’s global operations. Despite past negotiations for a 2020 deal involving Oracle and Walmart, both were ultimately unsuccessful. Microsoft, having had a previous failed attempt to acquire TikTok, has again shown interest. Trump described Microsoft’s involvement without providing details.

Tech firm Perplexity AI challenges previous proposals with a creative bid. The Associated Press highlighted Perplexity AI's concept involving a new company named from merging various entities, suggesting a $300 billion public offering where the US government might hold a notable stake. ByteDance would oversee TikTok’s US business but not its proprietary algorithm under this idea.

Project Liberty introduces yet another perspective, helmed by Frank McCourt and including figureheads like Shark Tank's Kevin O'Leary and Reddit cofounder Alexis Ohanian. Their vision emphasizes user control over data and potential integration with blockchain technology, addressing concerns about decentralization and data rights. O'Leary has criticized the legality of government-driven deals, emphasizing the need to abide by presidential and Supreme Court directives.

YouTube's MrBeast, or Jimmy Donaldson, although arguably jokingly, has attracted attention when considering a bid. He joined forces with significant entities, leveraging a consortium encompassing over $20 billion in cash offers. The level of seriousness accorded to his proposal remains undetermined. The landscape of potential buyers and their varied intentions encapsulates the current challenges in charting TikTok's future journey in the US.

Sources: Engadget, The Wall Street Journal, NPR, Associated Press, Bloomberg.

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