TikTok, the widely popular social media platform owned by Chinese company ByteDance, has been embroiled in controversy within the United States for several years. Concerns over national security and data privacy have led to legislative actions and legal battles, culminating in a looming deadline that could determine the app’s fate in the U.S. market.
Background and Legislative Actions
The scrutiny of TikTok began in August 2020 when then-President Donald Trump signed an executive order aiming to ban transactions with ByteDance, citing national security concerns. The administration sought to compel ByteDance to divest TikTok’s U.S. operations to an American company. Potential buyers at the time included Microsoft, Oracle, and Walmart. However, legal challenges ensued, and a U.S. judge temporarily blocked the executive order, allowing TikTok to continue its operations.
The situation intensified under the Biden administration. In April 2024, the U.S. House of Representatives passed legislation with a 360-58 vote, followed by Senate approval, leading President Joe Biden to sign a bill requiring ByteDance to sell TikTok or face a ban. TikTok responded by suing the U.S. government, arguing that the ban violated First Amendment rights and asserting compliance with local data storage laws.
Shifts in Political Stance
In a notable shift, former President Trump, who had previously advocated for TikTok’s ban, opposed the potential prohibition in a December 2024 court filing. He suggested finding a way to keep the app operational in the U.S., marking a significant change from his earlier position.
Current Deadline and Potential Buyers
As the April 5, 2025, deadline approaches, TikTok faces the possibility of a ban unless a sale is finalized. Several entities have expressed interest in acquiring TikTok’s U.S. operations:
– Amazon: The tech giant has submitted a last-minute bid to acquire TikTok, aiming to bolster its presence in the social media landscape. The offer was communicated to Vice President JD Vance and Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick. However, some parties reportedly do not consider Amazon a serious contender. ([apnews.com](https://apnews.com/article/19f62e2dba637a0d1a0b41102a2f351f?utm_source=openai))
– OnlyFans Founder Tim Stokely and Hbar Foundation: Stokely’s new startup, Zoop, in collaboration with the Hbar Foundation, managing the Hedera cryptocurrency network, has submitted a late-stage bid. Their proposal emphasizes a new ownership model where creators and communities benefit directly from the platform’s value. ([reuters.com](https://www.reuters.com/technology/onlyfans-founder-crypto-foundation-submit-late-stage-bid-buy-tiktok-2025-04-02/?utm_source=openai))
– Oracle: Previously involved in acquisition discussions in 2020, Oracle remains interested in TikTok. Co-founder Larry Ellison suggested a 50% ownership stake as a viable deal. ([techcrunch.com](https://techcrunch.com/2025/02/17/what-to-know-about-tiktoks-uncertain-future-in-the-us-and-the-people-who-want-to-buy-it/?utm_source=openai))
– American Investor Consortium: Led by Jesse Tinsley, CEO of Employer.com, this group includes notable figures such as Roblox co-founder David Baszucki, Anchorage Digital CEO Nathan McCauley, and YouTube creator Jimmy Donaldson (MrBeast). They have proposed a $30 billion all-cash offer for TikTok’s U.S. operations. ([techcrunch.com](https://techcrunch.com/2025/02/17/what-to-know-about-tiktoks-uncertain-future-in-the-us-and-the-people-who-want-to-buy-it/?utm_source=openai))
– Project Liberty (Frank McCourt and Kevin O’Leary): This consortium, known as The People’s Bid for TikTok, aims to restructure the platform to collect less user data. Their formal offer values TikTok’s American operations at $20 billion. ([inc.com](https://www.inc.com/chris-morris/who-might-buy-tiktok-these-are-four-potential-buyers-if-the-supreme-court-rules-against-it/91106137?utm_source=openai))
– Bobby Kotick: The former CEO of Activision Blizzard has expressed interest in acquiring TikTok, leveraging his experience in the gaming industry to integrate gaming and social media. ([techcrunch.com](https://techcrunch.com/2025/02/17/what-to-know-about-tiktoks-uncertain-future-in-the-us-and-the-people-who-want-to-buy-it/?utm_source=openai))
– Microsoft: Having previously engaged in acquisition talks in 2021, Microsoft remains a potential buyer, seeking to expand its social media footprint. ([inc.com](https://www.inc.com/chris-morris/who-might-buy-tiktok-these-are-four-potential-buyers-if-the-supreme-court-rules-against-it/91106137?utm_source=openai))
Challenges and Considerations
Despite the interest from various parties, several challenges persist:
– Algorithm Ownership: ByteDance’s proprietary algorithm is central to TikTok’s success. The company has been protective of this asset, complicating potential sale negotiations. ([inc.com](https://www.inc.com/chris-morris/who-might-buy-tiktok-these-are-four-potential-buyers-if-the-supreme-court-rules-against-it/91106137?utm_source=openai))
– Regulatory Scrutiny: Any acquisition would likely face intense examination from U.S. regulators, especially concerning data privacy and national security implications.
– International Relations: The Chinese government’s stance on a forced sale adds complexity, as Beijing has indicated opposition to such measures. ([inc.com](https://www.inc.com/chris-morris/who-might-buy-tiktok-these-are-four-potential-buyers-if-the-supreme-court-rules-against-it/91106137?utm_source=openai))
Conclusion
As the deadline nears, TikTok’s future in the U.S. hangs in the balance. The outcome will depend on the ability of interested parties to navigate the intricate web of political, regulatory, and business considerations. The coming days are crucial in determining whether TikTok will continue to operate in the U.S. under new ownership or face a potential ban.
