TikTok Denies Rumors of Elon Musk Acquisition Amid U.S. Ban Concerns
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TikTok has firmly dismissed speculation that the Chinese government is negotiating a sale of the platform to Elon Musk, CEO of X (formerly Twitter). The rumors emerged amidst increasing uncertainty about TikTok’s future in the United States following President Joe Biden’s signing of a bill banning the app in April 2024.
The ban, set to take effect on January 19, 2025, hinges on the condition that TikTok’s parent company, ByteDance, sells its shares to a US-based owner. Rumors surfaced that China might resolve the standoff by selling TikTok’s US operations to Musk, a claim reported by Bloomberg, suggesting such a move could keep the app accessible to American users.
TikTok has denied reports of considering Elon Musk to purchase the app:
“We can’t be expected to comment on pure fiction.” pic.twitter.com/wqG3MbOane— Pop Crave (@PopCrave) January 14, 2025Advertisement
However, Variety reported that TikTok has shut down these speculations. A representative for the company unequivocally labeled the rumors as baseless, stating:
“We can’t be expected to comment on pure fiction.”
Elon Musk, who has made high-profile investments in social media with his purchase of X, has not addressed these claims. While his involvement might seem plausible given his history, there is no concrete evidence supporting the notion of his interest in acquiring TikTok.
TikTok’s looming US shutdown has intensified discussions about the app’s future. The platform has sought legal avenues to challenge the ban, but these efforts have consistently been blocked. TikTok CEO Shou Zi Chew remains determined to appeal the decisions, attempting to preserve ByteDance’s ownership while continuing operations in the US.
POV: Elon Musk, After seeing a price tag on Tiktok. pic.twitter.com/yy6tiz2skt
— Saint Tyrone🥩🍳🦪🍊🥛🥂 (@SaintTyroneRSGG) January 14, 2025
As the January 19 deadline approaches, users are preparing for the possibility that TikTok may soon become inaccessible in the country. The app’s immense popularity, particularly among younger audiences, underscores the significance of this development.
The uncertainty surrounding TikTok’s future has fueled speculation and rumors, but for now, the company’s stance is clear: there are no plans for Elon Musk to take ownership of its US operations. The coming weeks will reveal whether TikTok can secure a last-minute resolution or if it will cease operations in one of its largest markets.
“Elon Musk considered for Tik Tok buyout” pic.twitter.com/gg7ClU0ZEv
— IsagiMuse 💫 (@ch0colope) January 14, 2025
Shivam Kumar
Hi, I'm Shivam Kumar. I'm pursuing Journalism honors from the IP University. I love the skill of writing and looking forward to learn more of it. Also I love traveling and experiencing new things every day....
