ByteDance Seeks Alternative to Sale of Its US Operations

A ByteDance board member told Chinese media that the company hopes to find an alternative to selling its US TikTok assets. The company plans to do it while allaying national security concerns, aiming to keep its presence in the country.

William Ford, chair of private equity company and ByteDance shareholder General Atlantic, told Caixin Global he is optimistic discussions between the US and China would result in a deal in which the company does not have to sell its stake. Ford noted several alternatives are considered to allow the platform to continue to operate, suggesting a change of control may be viable.

He added talks between US President Donald Trump and China President Xi Jinping have created a more constructive environment, raising hopes of a positive outcome. President Trump gave TikTok 75 days to line up a US partner and previously suggested a joint venture could be established in which the nation would hold a 50% stake.

US legislation passed in early 2024 banned the service unless a local buyer was found. SensorTower data showed TikTok US drives 88 million hours of consumer engagement per day. The service recorded about $2 billion in spending each year and the platform holds an 8% share of the digital advertising sector.