TikTok Sale: Trump Floats Big Tech Names as Potential Buyers
President Donald Trump has initiated a bidding war for the fate of TikTok, suggesting several prominent tech executives as potential acquirers.
Among the Candidates Mentioned:
* Microsoft (MSFT): Microsoft has previously expressed interest in acquiring TikTok's US operations but has not confirmed current involvement.
* Elon Musk: The Tesla (TSLA) and SpaceX CEO has discussed acquiring TikTok with Chinese officials. Antitrust experts predict Musk could face fewer legal hurdles due to distinct user bases.
* Larry Ellison and Oracle (ORCL): Ellison's role is unclear, despite Trump's previous support. NPR reported plans to move TikTok control to Oracle, with Ellison overseeing operations.
* Perplexity AI: Backed by Amazon (AMZN) and Nvidia (NVDA), Perplexity AI has proposed merging TikTok's US business with its own, followed by an IPO that would grant half ownership to the US government.
* Frank McCourt and Kevin O'Leary: McCourt and O'Leary, along with a consortium of investors, are reportedly willing to pay up to $20 billion for TikTok, excluding its algorithm.
* Jesse Tinsley and 'MrBeast': Tinsley and YouTuber "MrBeast" have submitted an all-cash bid, represented by a law firm with ties to Trump's former attorney general pick.
Trump's Timeline:
Trump has requested a deal within 30 days, despite an executive order giving TikTok's parent company until April 4 to resolve the situation.
Implications:
The outcome of the bidding war will determine TikTok's future in the United States and could have significant implications for national security, free speech, and antitrust concerns.