TikTok Denies Reports of Possible Sale to Elon Musk

TikTok has firmly rejected speculation that it could be sold to Elon Musk amid ongoing legal scrutiny regarding its operations in the U.S.

TikTok has described a recent report suggesting that China might allow a sale of its U.S. operations to Elon Musk as "pure fiction." This statement comes after Bloomberg reported that Chinese officials are considering this option if the U.S. Supreme Court upholds a ban on the platform. The Supreme Court is slated to rule on a law that mandates TikTok to either divest its American operations or face a ban by January 19. TikTok has consistently affirmed its unwillingness to sell, with a spokesperson stating, "We can't be expected to comment on pure fiction," in an interview with BBC News.

Bloomberg's report indicated that one consideration for Chinese officials could involve Musk's X social media platform potentially acquiring control of TikTok’s U.S. business. Notably, Musk's close ties to the incoming U.S. president, Donald Trump, add a layer of complexity to the situation. Just last month, Trump encouraged the Supreme Court to hold off on any decisions regarding TikTok until after he assumes office, expressing a desire to pursue a political resolution. Trump has also been vocal about his opposition to a ban on TikTok, claiming he aims to address the platform's issues through political channels upon taking office.

Meanwhile, the Biden administration contends that without a sale, TikTok poses a risk to national security, suggesting it could be used by China as a means for espionage and political manipulation. TikTok has refuted any claims of influence from the Chinese Communist Party, insisting that the proposed ban infringes upon the First Amendment rights of its users.