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TikTok sold: ByteDance finalizes US deal

TikTok avoids shutdown in the US and continues operations under new ownership terms.

TikTok sold its US operations to a new joint venture with American investors, finally putting an end to years of uncertainty about the app’s future in the United States. The move ensures TikTok will continue running for its 170 million US users while meeting national security requirements.

The Associated Press reports that Oracle, Silver Lake, and Emirati firm MGX will each take a 15% stake in the new company. ByteDance will keep 19.9%, while affiliates of its existing investors hold 30.1%. A mostly American seven‑member board will oversee the venture.

Part of the deal focuses on data protection. US user data will be stored locally under Oracle’s management. TikTok’s algorithm, which powers its personalized video feed, will be retrained using American data to prevent outside influence. Content moderation and policy decisions will also be handled in the US.

The sale follows a law requiring TikTok to cut ties with ByteDance or face a nationwide ban. President Donald Trump extended deadlines through executive orders while negotiations continued. The agreement is expected to close in January 2026.

Also Read: TikTok to ban gambling ads in the Philippines

With TikTok sold, the app avoids shutdown and enters a new phase under American oversight. How this change will affect TikTok in other regions, including the Philippines, remains to be seen.

Featured image from Unsplash

Bryan Rilloraza has been a fixture in the local tech scene for over a decade, sharing his perspective as a tech enthusiast and industry veteran. Backed by an MBA from De La Salle University, a Bachelor’s Degree from the University of the Philippines, and 20 years of corporate experience in the telecommunications and banking sectors, Bryan provides a practical, real-world analysis of how technology serves the consumer.

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