Saving TikTok from Going Dark: Trump Signs Executive Order to Protect Users and Boost U.S. Businesses: In a move that underscores the intersection of technology, national security, and economic strategy, President Donald J. Trump has signed an Executive Order approving the sale of TikTok’s U.S. operations to American owners. While the deal awaits China’s official approval, the announcement marks the end of months of uncertainty for one of the nation’s most widely used social media platforms.
The newly formed U.S. company will be valued at $14 billion, far below ByteDance’s estimated $330 billion valuation. JD Vance, who spoke at the press conference, confirmed the valuation and highlighted the significance of the deal for American businesses and national security.
Oracle, Silver Lake, and Abu Dhabi-based AI firm MGX will collectively hold 45% of the company, with ByteDance limited to less than 20% ownership. White House officials have confirmed that Chinese officials will have no access to U.S. user data, ensuring the platform is under American oversight.
This divestiture places control of algorithms, content moderation, and data storage squarely in American hands. Oracle will oversee operations, manage cloud services for user data, and secure a license to run TikTok’s algorithm. The move ensures that all U.S. content is monitored, safeguarded, and free from foreign interference, reinforcing national security while maintaining user confidence.
Along with Oracle and co-founder Larry Ellison, Trump noted that other investors include media mogul Rupert Murdoch and Michael Dell, CEO of Dell computers. “Great investors. The biggest. They don’t get bigger,” Trump said. JD Vance added that more details on additional investors will be announced in the coming days.
This divestiture places control of algorithms, content moderation, and data storage squarely in American hands. Oracle will oversee operations, manage cloud services for user data, and secure a license to run TikTok’s algorithm. The move ensures that all U.S. content is monitored, safeguarded, and free from foreign interference, reinforcing national security while maintaining user confidence.
The deal is a clear win for American businesses and creators. TikTok, which reaches 180 million U.S. users, is a critical platform for advertising, marketing, and audience engagement. Analysts project that keeping TikTok operational could generate $178 billion in economic activity over the next four years, sustaining thousands of jobs across the digital and creative sectors. Investors include some of the most prominent figures in business: Oracle co-founder Larry Ellison, media mogul Rupert Murdoch, Michael Dell, CEO of Dell Computers, and JD Vance, further reinforcing American leadership in technology and investment.
Trump’s strategy demonstrates his deal-making expertise, with a proven record in national security and foreign policy, including the Abraham Accords, USMCA, and Phase One China Trade Deal.
This Executive Order also reflects the Trump administration’s broader approach to strategic influence in technology, following its recent stake in Intel and efforts to encourage domestic investment from major tech companies. TikTok’s divestiture demonstrates a pragmatic balance between protecting national security and fostering innovation, ensuring Americans can continue to enjoy the global platform safely.
President Trump framed it simply: “If we can save it, I think that would be a very good thing. And I think it would be economically good for America.” Indeed, this deal is not just about TikTok—it’s about safeguarding U.S. interests, empowering American businesses, and setting a precedent for responsible, secure engagement with global technology.
