President Donald Trump revealed in a recent interview that media moguls Lachlan and Rupert Murdoch could play a key role in the American takeover of TikTok, aiming to shift control from its Chinese parent company ByteDance. This announcement comes amid a 2025 bipartisan law forcing ByteDance to divest US operations, with the deal set to ensure majority American ownership and secure data handling.
Background on TikTok’s US Overhaul
The push for TikTok’s US restructuring stems from national security concerns over data privacy and potential Chinese government influence. In January 2025, a new law required ByteDance to sell off its US assets or face a ban, leading to intense negotiations.
Trump highlighted the deal during a Fox News interview taped on Friday and aired over the weekend. He described a phone call with Chinese President Xi Jinping that finalized the arrangement, expected to be signed soon. The setup aims to protect American users while keeping the popular app running.
This move echoes earlier tensions in 2020 when Trump first threatened a TikTok ban, but the current effort builds on recent tech regulations. Sources indicate the agreement involves multiple high-profile investors to create a new entity with strong US oversight.
Key Investors Named in the Deal
Trump specifically pointed to several business leaders stepping in as part of the investor group. He expressed excitement about their involvement, noting it would strengthen American control.
Among those mentioned:
- Lachlan Murdoch, chairman of Fox Corporation.
- Rupert Murdoch, his father and media tycoon.
- Larry Ellison, chairman of Oracle Corporation.
- Michael Dell, founder and CEO of Dell Technologies.
These names add a mix of media and tech expertise to the consortium. Oracle will handle security and monitor the app’s operations in partnership with the US government.
The White House confirmed that American investors, including venture firm Andreessen Horowitz and private equity group Silver Lake, will hold majority stakes. ByteDance retains under 20 percent ownership, a sharp reduction from full control.
Details of the Proposed Agreement
Under the terms, the new TikTok US entity will have a board dominated by Americans, with six out of seven seats. The app’s algorithm, a core piece of its technology, will be managed domestically to prevent foreign interference.
Oracle’s role as security provider stands out, ensuring compliance with US laws. This includes regular audits and data protection measures.
| Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| Ownership | Majority US investors; ByteDance <20% |
| Board Composition | 6 American seats out of 7 |
| Security Provider | Oracle Corporation |
| Algorithm Control | Fully managed in the US |
| Timeline | Deal signing expected in coming days |
This structure addresses bipartisan worries about espionage, while allowing TikTok to continue serving over 100 million US users. Trump emphasized that without this deal, the app could have been shut down entirely.
Experts note this could set a precedent for other foreign-owned tech firms. Similar scrutiny has hit apps like WeChat in the past, but TikTok’s popularity made it a focal point.
Potential Impacts on Media and Tech
Involving the Murdochs brings a media angle to TikTok, which already influences news and trends. Their experience with Fox News and other outlets could shape content moderation or partnerships.
For users, the change promises better data security but raises questions about bias or censorship. Critics worry about concentrated power in few hands, especially with ties to conservative media.
On the tech side, figures like Ellison and Dell add hardware and software muscle. This might integrate TikTok with cloud services or devices, boosting innovation.
Recent events, such as the 2024 election cycle, amplified calls for tech accountability. Trump’s involvement ties back to his administration’s focus on China trade, blending politics with business.
Reactions from Stakeholders
Public response has been mixed, with social media buzzing about the news. Supporters see it as a win for US interests, while others question the investors’ motives.
Industry analysts predict smoother operations post-deal, potentially increasing TikTok’s value. However, no official comments from the Murdochs or Dell have surfaced yet.
This development follows Trump’s other 2025 policies, like H-1B visa changes, showing a pattern of reshaping global business ties.
What This Means for Users and the Future
For everyday TikTok fans, the app should feel the same, but with enhanced privacy. Creators might benefit from stable US backing, avoiding past uncertainties.
Looking ahead, this could inspire similar deals in other sectors, like AI or social platforms. It underscores growing US-China tech rivalry, with implications for global markets.
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