The Trump administration is negotiating a plan to save TikTok by involving Oracle (NYSE:ORCL) and U.S. investors to oversee the app’s global operations, according to NPR. ByteDance, TikTok’s China-based parent company, would retain a minority stake, while Oracle would manage data collection, algorithms, and software updates. Oracle already supports TikTok's web infrastructure.
The proposal follows national security concerns raised by U.S. officials, citing risks of user data misuse under ByteDance. The law requiring TikTok’s sale or ban took effect on January 19, temporarily taking the app offline. On his first day in office, Trump delayed the law's enforcement by 75 days via an executive order.
Under the reported deal, American investors would own a majority stake in TikTok. Oracle’s involvement includes a potential investment of tens of billions of dollars. Microsoft (NASDAQ:MSFT) is also engaged in discussions. NPR reported ongoing meetings between Oracle and White House officials, with further talks scheduled.
Trump stated he favors the U.S. holding a 50% ownership stake in TikTok through a joint venture. However, key terms remain in flux, with appeasing Congress seen as a major challenge. Free speech advocates have opposed TikTok’s potential ban, arguing it undermines free expression. ByteDance has defended its practices, stating U.S. user data is stored domestically on Oracle’s cloud servers, and moderation decisions are made within the U.S.
This developing deal aims to reduce Chinese ownership while ensuring stricter oversight, addressing national security concerns. However, negotiations continue as stakeholders work to finalize terms that satisfy government and public interests.
