Walmart in Talks to Buy TikTok Amid Extended Ban Deadline
In a surprising turn of events, Walmart is reportedly in discussions to acquire the popular social media platform TikTok. This development comes as former President Donald Trump has extended the deadline for TikTok to finalize a deal that would allow it to continue operating in the United States. The extension, which adds 75 days to the original deadline, was announced amidst ongoing concerns about national security and data privacy.
The potential acquisition by Walmart, a retail giant, marks a significant shift in the tech landscape. The move is seen as an attempt to save TikTok from a looming ban in the U.S., which was initially set to take effect if no deal was reached. The extended deadline provides a window of opportunity for TikTok to negotiate a sale or partnership that would satisfy the U.S. government's demands.
This situation underscores the complex interplay between technology, politics, and business, as companies like TikTok navigate the challenges of operating in a highly regulated environment. As negotiations continue, the outcome remains uncertain, but the involvement of Walmart adds a new dimension to the saga of TikTok's future in America.
Related issues news
When is the last day of TikTok?
It gave parent company ByteDance until Jan. 19, 2025, to divest TikTok or face the ban. Some political officials have seen TikTok as a national security threat for years, expressing concern that ByteDance may be sharing U.S. user data with the Chinese government.
Is TikTok banned in the US?
The short-form video-hosting service TikTok has been under a de jure nationwide ban in the United States since January 19, 2025, due to the US government's concerns over potential user data collection and influence operations by the government of the People's Republic of China.
When is the ban on TikTok?
The administration has set an April 5 deadline for the app to be banned if it is not sold by it's Chinese-owned parent company, ByteDance.
Why is TikTok for sale?
Congress passed a law last year forcing TikTok to either divest or sell its assets in the US. The law stemmed from concerns that the app's Chinese owner, ByteDance, could use the social media platform to manipulate Americans.
