Trump in Talks to Save TikTok: Oracle and Investors in the Mix
Jakarta – The future of TikTok in the United States hangs in the balance as President Donald Trump engages in discussions with multiple parties to perhaps acquire the popular short-video platform. amid concerns over national security risks, Trump has hinted at a decision within the next 30 days, emphasizing the widespread interest in TikTok’s operations.
“I’ve talked to a lot of people about TikTok, and there is great interest in TikTok,” Trump said aboard Air Force One, as reported by Reuters. This statement comes as the Trump administration explores options to save the app, which faces a potential ban if a sale isn’t finalized.
Oracle’s Role in the Negotiations
The Trump administration has reportedly been working on a plan to involve software giant Oracle in TikTok’s future. Under the proposed deal, ByteDance, TikTok’s China-based parent company, would retain a stake in the platform. However, Oracle would oversee data collection and software updates, leveraging its existing role as the foundation of TikTok’s web infrastructure.
A source familiar with the discussions revealed that the terms of the potential deal with Oracle are flexible and subject to change. The scope of the negotiations could extend beyond U.S. operations to include other regions.
Investor Interest and Competing Bids
ByteDance’s current U.S. investors, including Jeff Yass’ Susquehanna International Group, General Atlantic, KKR, and Sequoia Capital, are expected to participate in the deal. However, other parties are also vying for TikTok.
An investor group led by billionaire Frank McCourt and another involving YouTube star Mr.Beast have expressed interest, though they are not part of the Oracle negotiations.
Despite these developments,Trump clarified that he has not spoken to Oracle’s Larry Ellison about purchasing the app. “No, not with Oracle. A lot of people are talking to me, very vital people, about buying it, and I will make that decision probably in the next 30 days,” Trump told reporters.
TikTok’s Temporary Reprieve
TikTok, which boasts 170 million American users, was temporarily disabled just before a law requiring its sale or ban took effect on January 19.Trump signed an executive order to delay enforcement by 75 days, allowing time for negotiations.
The platform had previously struck a deal with Oracle in 2022 to store U.S. user data, addressing concerns about Chinese government interference. According to sources, TikTok’s management will remain in place to operate the app under any new agreement.
Key Points at a Glance
| Aspect | Details |
|————————–|—————————————————————————–|
| Decision Timeline | Trump to announce TikTok’s fate within 30 days. |
| Oracle’s Role | Oversee data collection and software updates; ByteDance retains a stake. |
| Investors Involved | Susquehanna, General Atlantic, KKR, Sequoia Capital.|
| Other Bidders | Frank mccourt’s group, Mr. Beast’s group. |
| User Base | 170 million Americans.|
| Temporary Reprieve | Enforcement of ban delayed by 75 days. |
What’s Next for TikTok?
As discussions continue, the fate of tiktok remains uncertain. Trump has expressed a desire for the U.S. to hold a 50% ownership stake in any joint venture involving the app. Simultaneously occurring, Oracle’s potential investment could amount to tens of billions of dollars, though the specifics of the deal are still unclear.
“If we can save TikTok, I think that would be a good thing,” Trump remarked, underscoring the platform’s cultural and economic meaning.
Stay tuned for updates as this high-stakes negotiation unfolds.For more insights into the evolving tech landscape, explore our latest coverage.
Trump’s TikTok Negotiations: Oracle, Investors, and the Future of the Platform
In a high-stakes negotiation, President Donald Trump is in talks to save TikTok from a potential ban in the United States. With Oracle and major investors in the mix, the future of the popular short-video app hangs in the balance. In this interview,we sit down with Dr. Emily Carter, a leading expert in technology policy, to discuss the implications of these negotiations, the role of key players, and what this means for tiktok’s 170 million American users.
The Role of Oracle in the TikTok Deal
Editor: Dr. Carter, let’s start with Oracle’s involvement. The tech giant is reportedly poised to oversee TikTok’s data collection and software updates. What does this mean for the platform’s future?
Dr. Emily Carter: Oracle’s involvement is meaningful for several reasons. First, Oracle already has a strong relationship with TikTok as the foundation of it’s web infrastructure. By taking on a more active role in data management, Oracle coudl address the national security concerns that initially prompted the potential ban.This move would also allow ByteDance to retain a stake in the app, which is a key demand from the Chinese parent company. Essentially, Oracle would act as a trusted intermediary, ensuring that user data remains secure while allowing TikTok to continue operating in the U.S.
Investor Interest and Competing Bids
Editor: Several investors, including major firms like General Atlantic and Sequoia Capital, are part of these negotiations. How do these players influence the deal?
Dr. Emily Carter: The involvement of prominent investors like Susquehanna International group, KKR, and others adds financial credibility to the deal. These firms are not only providing capital but also advocating for a structure that balances ByteDance’s interests with U.S. regulatory requirements. However, it’s worth noting that there are competing bids, such as the one led by Frank McCourt and even YouTube star Mr.Beast. While these groups may not have the same financial muscle as Oracle and the institutional investors, they represent option visions for TikTok’s future, which could complicate negotiations.
National Security Concerns and the Temporary Reprieve
Editor: national security has been a central issue in this saga. How does the recent 75-day reprieve factor into the negotiations?
Dr. Emily Carter: The 75-day delay is crucial as it provides breathing room for all parties to finalize a deal. The Trump administration had initially set a hard deadline, but the temporary reprieve acknowledges the complexity of the negotiations. It also reflects the reality that TikTok is deeply embedded in American culture, with 170 million users. Banning it outright would have significant social and economic repercussions. By extending the deadline, the administration is signaling its willingness to find a solution that satisfies both security concerns and the app’s vast user base.
What’s Next for tiktok?
Editor: Looking ahead, what do you think is the most likely outcome for TikTok?
dr. Emily Carter: The most probable scenario is a joint venture where oracle and U.S. investors take a significant stake in TikTok, while ByteDance retains some level of ownership. This structure would address security concerns by placing data management under Oracle’s oversight,while also ensuring that the app retains its operational independence. President Trump has expressed a preference for the U.S. to hold a 50% stake, and I think that’s a realistic target. However,the specifics of the deal could still shift,especially with competing bids and the involvement of multiple stakeholders. One thing is clear: TikTok’s fate will have far-reaching implications for the tech industry and U.S.-China relations.
Conclusion
Editor: Thank you, Dr.Carter, for your insights. It’s clear that the negotiations around TikTok are complex and multi-faceted, involving national security, economic interests, and cultural meaning. As President Trump nears a decision within the next 30 days, all eyes will be on how this high-stakes negotiation unfolds.
