Oracle and a consortium of investors, including Microsoft, are reportedly in discussions to take over TikTok’s global operations, according to NPR. The deal, which is said to be facilitated by the White House, would allow ByteDance to retain a minority stake in the company. Meanwhile, Oracle would oversee TikTok’s algorithm, data management, and software updates to ensure transparency.
Currently, Oracle’s infrastructure supports much of TikTok’s operations. Under the proposed agreement, Oracle would “actively monitor and supervise” the platform, a move aimed at reducing Chinese ownership and addressing security concerns. NPR cited an anonymous source describing the deal’s intention to “streamline oversight and ensure compliance.”
Microsoft’s role in the discussions remains unclear, though the tech giant has joined the negotiations. Notably, Microsoft was previously part of a joint bid with Oracle and Walmart to acquire TikTok in 2020, a proposal that Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates labeled a “poisoned chalice.” This time, Walmart is reportedly out of the running, citing the app’s hefty price tag as a dealbreaker.
The negotiations come on the heels of an executive order from former President Trump, granting TikTok and similar companies a 75-day window to comply with U.S. regulations. Trump had previously proposed a “joint venture” structure that would allocate 50% ownership of TikTok to American entities.
As talks progress, the deal may reshape the governance and ownership of one of the world’s most popular social media platforms.
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