**Potential Buyers for TikTok: Trump Open to Elon Musk or Larry Ellison Acquisition**
**WASHINGTON** – United States President Donald Trump has expressed openness to billionaire supporter Elon Musk or Oracle Corp Chairman Larry Ellison purchasing the popular social video application TikTok. Trump made this statement during an event at the White House alongside Ellison, highlighting the possibility of a joint venture with the US government.
**Trump’s Proposal and Executive Order**
During the event, Trump mentioned, “I have the right to make a deal,” proposing a scenario where TikTok would be purchased and half of it given to the United States of America. This proposal comes after Trump signed an executive order on his first day in office to extend the deadline for TikTok’s sale by 75 days. Despite uncertainties about Trump’s authority to extend the deadline, the move could have significant implications.
**ByteDance’s Stance and Potential Impact**
ByteDance Ltd, the parent company of TikTok, has publicly refused to sell the app. However, the recent Supreme Court ruling and a brief TikTok shutdown have raised hopes among prospective buyers for a change in ByteDance’s stance. Trump emphasized the value of the app, stating that its worth could range from zero to a trillion dollars, depending on the US government’s approval.
**International Response and Market Interest**
While China has not responded to inquiries regarding US ownership of TikTok, experts like Zhu Feng from Nanjing University’s School of International Studies believe that Beijing may consider negotiations based on rules rather than political motives. Meanwhile, various potential buyers, including tech entrepreneur Jesse Tinsley’s group and billionaire Frank McCourt, have expressed interest in acquiring TikTok.
**Industry Speculations and Business Partnerships**
Apart from Musk and Ellison, other entities like Amazon.com Inc and Oracle, which already have business ties with TikTok, are also being considered as potential buyers. Oracle notably assisted in restoring TikTok’s app following a US shutdown, despite potential legal implications. Moreover, Ellison announced a new AI venture at the White House, indicating a growing interest in technological collaborations.
In a lighthearted moment, Trump mentioned the possibility of downloading TikTok on his phone, expressing fondness for the app and its impact on the younger demographic. His remarks underscore the evolving dynamics surrounding TikTok’s ownership and the diverse range of interested parties in the market.
As the future of TikTok remains uncertain amidst these developments, the potential involvement of prominent figures like Musk and Ellison could shape the app’s trajectory in the coming months. The intersection of technology, business, and politics in this acquisition process reflects the complex landscape of digital platforms and their global implications. How will these negotiations unfold, and what impact will they have on TikTok’s user base and content ecosystem? The answers lie in the evolving discussions and decisions surrounding this high-profile acquisition.