The Trump administration, citing national security risks, is pushing ByteDance to sell its social media jewel by April 5. Several players are in the running to acquire this engagement machine, but the road to an agreement is fraught with pitfalls.
Why Washington wants to force the sale of TikTok
The central argument put forward by the American authorities? The protection of personal data. For several years, Washington has accused TikTok of being a potential threat due to its massive collection of information on its users, mainly young people. A law passed in January now requires ByteDance to sell its US operations or face a ban on the country altogether.
Behind these security concerns lies a broader issue: the Sino-American technological rivalry. TikTok is not just a social network, but a key player in digital soft power. Its ultra-efficient algorithm and its ability to capture attention make it a heavyweight in the sector, an asset that Washington wants to keep from Beijing's influence.
A battle of buyers: unexpected profiles in the running
Four figures emerge among the candidates for the acquisition of TikTok in the United States: Frank McCourt, Alexis Ohanian, Jesse Tinsley and even MrBeast, the famous YouTuber. While these names may surprise, each brings a distinct vision for the future of the platform.
- Frank McCourt, a real estate and media entrepreneur, is considering an approach focused on sovereignty digital.
- Alexis Ohanian, co-founder of Reddit, could focus on innovation and content monetization.
- Jesse Tinsley, less well-known to the general public, is reportedly considering an acquisition alongside MrBeast, banking on the power of content creators to redefine TikTok.
While these suitors display great ambitions, the challenge is significant: any transaction will have to pass the regulatory fire test, both in the United States and in China.
Oracle: the ally strategic move that could change everything
In this power struggle, Oracle could come out on top. Already a partner of TikTok for the secure hosting of American data, Larry Ellison's company is in an ideal position to strengthen its role. Greater involvement from Oracle, or even a partial takeover, would provide assurances to the American authorities on data protection while avoiding a sudden breakup.
But a major obstacle remains: Beijing. Any sale of TikTok will have to receive the approval of Chinese regulators, who have already blocked similar attempts in the past. China considers ByteDance's algorithms a strategic asset and could refuse a technology transfer to an American company.
Towards a compromise or a confrontation?
The outcome of this saga does not depend solely on trade negotiations. It is part of a broader confrontation between Washington and Beijing over control of the digital giants. If a compromise can be found, it would avoid an escalation that would damage relations between the two powers. But if China vetoes it, the White House could harden its position, leading to an outright ban on TikTok in the United States.
Either way, the date of April 5 is fast approaching. Whether TikTok changes hands or not, this commercial and geopolitical battle will mark a turning point in the technological war for influence between the United States and China.
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