Musk, Mr. Beast, or a Shark Tank Star: Who Could Acquire TikTok after Trump's Ultimatum?

By Evans Momodu
3 minute read


A lineup of prominent figures from the tech world and even the US government has been suggested as potential buyers for TikTok.

This follows President Trump's executive order giving the company 75 days to prove it doesn't pose a national security risk.

President Donald Trump recently issued an executive order requiring TikTok to find a US-based buyer for its American operations within 75 days, citing national security concerns over its Chinese ownership by ByteDance.

Within hours of taking office, Trump remarked, "Every rich person has called me about TikTok."

The platform, valued at an estimated $100 billion (£82 billion) if sold with its algorithm, temporarily went offline in the US before returning with a message pledging to work with the president on a resolution.

ByteDance has consistently denied allegations of data-sharing with the Chinese government, but concerns remain among US lawmakers.

So, who might step up to purchase the wildly popular short-video app?

Jimmy Donaldson, better known as Mr. Beast, hinted at his interest in acquiring TikTok in a January 14th tweet: "Okay fine, I'll buy TikTok so it doesn't get banned."

What began as a joke quickly gained traction, with Mr Beast later revealing he had been contacted by multiple billionaires to explore a serious bid.

In follow-up posts, Donaldson shared updates from meetings with influential investors, stating he was actively discussing potential deals.

Shortly after Trump's inauguration, MrBeast shared a TikTok video from a private jet, announcing his intent to make an official offer:
"I might become you guys' new CEO, I'm super excited."

The intrigue surrounding his bid underscores the growing crossover between social media personalities and major business ventures.
Source: Sky news