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China May Sell TikTok US to Musk's X Before January 19 Ban

Jan 14, 2025, 12:39 AM

Chinese officials are evaluating a potential option involving Elon Musk acquiring TikTok's US operations if the company fails to prevent a looming ban on the short-video app, according to people familiar with the matter. TikTok, owned by Beijing-based ByteDance Ltd., is facing a potential ban in the United States set to take effect on January 19 if legal challenges are unsuccessful, including a pending US Supreme Court decision. Under the scenario discussed, Musk's X, formerly known as Twitter, would take control of TikTok US and operate the businesses together, potentially serving its 170 million American users. Musk has previously spoken out against banning TikTok, arguing that although it would benefit X, he opposes censorship.