Musk buying TikTok could also lead to an increase in cost, which was seen when Musk bought Twitter and advertisers started boycotting the platform.
The competition: Other potential buyers include:
Microsoft, which previously attempted to acquire TikTok in 2020.
Oracle, which hosts TikTok’s U.S. data.
A consortium led by Frank McCourt and Kevin O’Leary.
Between the lines. A Musk-owned TikTok would face intense scrutiny given his controversial content moderation approach at X and his AI ambitions.
What’s next. The Supreme Court’s decision could trigger a bidding war ahead of the Jan. 19 deadline, with Musk potentially positioned as a preferred buyer for Chinese officials.
Bottom line. If Musk successfully acquires TikTok, he will control two of the most influential social media platforms in the U.S., significantly expanding his influence over digital discourse and AI development.