Trump Envisions Bidding War for TikTok, Open to Microsoft Acquisition
- Ademe Etefworkie Melaku
- Jan 29
- 2 min read
Trump Envisions Bidding War for TikTok, Open to Microsoft Acquisition
January 29, 2025 – novelsnet.com
President Donald Trump has expressed his desire for a competitive bidding war over the social media giant TikTok, suggesting that he would welcome an acquisition by Microsoft amidst a host of other potential buyers. As the 75-day extension to resolve TikTok's fate nears its April deadline, the president advocates for an "old-fashioned" bidding process to determine the platform's future in the U.S.
During discussions about the fate of TikTok, whose parent company ByteDance was granted a reprieve from selling its U.S. assets or facing a potential ban, Trump highlighted the high level of interest from various suitors. Notable figures and entities showing interest include billionaire Frank McCourt, "Shark Tank" star Kevin O'Leary, and popular YouTuber Jimmy Donaldson, known as "MrBeast."
President Trump noted his openness to Microsoft leading the bid, recalling the tech giant's previous attempt to buy TikTok in 2020 during his first term. "I don’t mind if, whether it is Microsoft or somebody else, a big company, a secure company, very American company buy it,” Trump said, endorsing the idea of a major American firm taking over TikTok's operations.
While Microsoft has remained tight-lipped about its current intentions, with a spokesperson stating the company had "nothing more to share" on the potential acquisition, the situation remains fluid. The bidding atmosphere is expected to intensify as the deadline approaches, with Trump emphasizing that the ultimate goal is to preserve American jobs and prevent Chinese involvement in the app's operations.
The future of TikTok remains uncertain as stakeholders await a decision that could reshape the social media landscape in the U.S. and beyond. Trump's comments suggest a significant U.S. influence in the app's future, aiming to secure a deal that aligns with national interests while ensuring the platform's continued success and innovation.
References: Nicholas Kamm—AFP via Getty Images
4
Comments