Trump approves TikTok deal giving US companies control over algorithm, content, and data

TikTok, the popular short-video app, has been under intense scrutiny in the U.S. over concerns that its Chinese parent company, ByteDance, could pose a national security risk. Now, former President Donald Trump has signed an executive order approving a deal that changes how TikTok is run in the United States, aiming to keep American user data safe.

The deal values TikTok’s U.S. operations at around $14 billion. Under the new arrangement, U.S.-based companies—including Oracle, Silver Lake, and Abu Dhabi-backed MGX—will own 45% of TikTok’s U.S. business. ByteDance investors will retain a smaller 35% stake. A new board of directors will oversee the app’s American operations to make sure it follows rules protecting user data and national security.

One of the biggest changes involves TikTok’s algorithm and content moderation. The agreement gives U.S. companies control over the recommendation system, source code, and moderation policies inside the United States. This means decisions about what videos are shown to U.S. users and how the platform operates will now be under American supervision.

Trump also revealed that he spoke with Chinese President Xi Jinping about the deal, and the Chinese leader did not object. Trump noted that his own popularity on TikTok influenced his approach, saying he wanted the platform to treat all viewpoints fairly while ensuring national security.