Abu Dhabi Royal Family Acquires Stake in TikTok’s US Operations
The Abu Dhabi royal family will obtain a share in TikTok’s US operations after former President Donald Trump issued an executive order approving a deal that values the social media platform at $14 billion.
MGX, an investment fund led by Sheikh Tahnoon bin Zayed Al Nahyan, will acquire a 15% stake and secure a board seat once TikTok’s US business is separated.
The executive order, signed late Thursday, grants a 120-day period to finalize the agreement. Oracle, led by Larry Ellison, the private equity firm Silver Lake, and Abu Dhabi’s MGX will collectively hold approximately 45% of TikTok US. American entities are expected to control more than 65% of the company, with Trump also including Michael Dell and Rupert Murdoch’s Fox among the investors.
“There will be majority US ownership and control, ensuring it is no longer under foreign adversary influence,” Trump stated. “Highly capable American investors, including Larry Ellison—top-tier individuals—will oversee operations entirely.”
ByteDance, TikTok’s Chinese parent company, will retain a 19.9% stake in the US division.
China has yet to publicly confirm its approval of the deal, though Trump mentioned having a “productive discussion” with President Xi Jinping, who reportedly supported the arrangement.
US Vice President JD Vance noted that the $14 billion valuation reflects the US operation alone, a fraction of ByteDance’s estimated $330 billion total worth. By comparison, Meta, owner of Facebook and Instagram, is valued at $1.8 trillion.
Vance acknowledged initial resistance from China but emphasized that the agreement safeguards American data privacy while allowing TikTok to continue functioning.
“This ensures Americans can use TikTok with greater confidence, knowing their data is protected and won’t be exploited for propaganda,” he said.
The fate of TikTok US had been uncertain since Congress demanded ByteDance divest last April, citing security concerns. Trump extended deadlines multiple times to facilitate a resolution.
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