Kevin O’Leary’s Bold Strategy To Save TikTok’s U.S. Operations

Three people smiling and pointing left in suits

Kevin O’Leary has put forward a plan that could redefine TikTok’s fate in America, a move that could shift the political and digital landscape.

At a Glance

Kevin O’Leary proposes buying TikTok to prevent a potential ban in the U.S.
Plans include transforming TikTok into an American company to address security concerns.
O’Leary argues TikTok currently poses privacy risks related to data handling.
There is skepticism about the feasibility and financial demands of purchasing TikTok.

Kevin O’Leary’s Plan Unveiled

Kevin O’Leary, known from “Shark Tank,” has proposed to purchase TikTok to keep it operational in the U.S. amid rising security concerns. O’Leary views the acquisition as vital to protect user data and eliminate the alleged “Chinese back doors.” His plan involves relocating TikTok’s servers to the U.S., thereby converting it into a truly American company. Currently, legislative measures are in motion to ban TikTok due to its ties with ByteDance, a Chinese company.

The proposal from O’Leary comes with the promise of addressing the pressing data privacy and cybersecurity issues currently associated with TikTok. Concerningly, legislative efforts seeking to impose a ban center around its Chinese connections and data mishandlings. O’Leary’s attempts to curb these risks are motivated by national security and user privacy concerns. TikTok’s high valuation, though, brings challenges to O’Leary’s proposal, leading to skepticism regarding the practicality of his financial maneuver.

Whoever buys TikTok will have to rewrite the algorithm. That’s the big risk because if it doesn’t work the way it does now, it’s not worth anywhere near $100 Billion. All you’re buying is 170 million names and a brand called TikTok. pic.twitter.com/iFTaALfgYg

— Kevin O'Leary aka Mr. Wonderful (@kevinolearytv) March 30, 2024

The Investment Uncertainty

O’Leary’s proposal to purchase TikTok doesn’t come without its challenges. Questions arise about his financial capability to execute such an ambitious plan, especially given TikTok’s estimated $100 billion valuation. Despite these issues, O’Leary has proactively sought to mitigate concerns by setting up a crowdfunding website that lets potential investors “reserve” spots, albeit without immediate payments. This effort aligns with U.S. regulations, which restrict investment eligibility based on income and financial status.

“Everyone knows TikTok leaks data to the CCP. It’s not a secret.” said O’Leary.

O’Leary’s ambition to democratize and refocus TikTok as a secure platform hinges on the support of a robust consortium willing to undertake substantial financial commitments. His intent to revise TikTok’s algorithm aligns with U.S. data protection norms, preserving privacy for approximately 170 million American users. The emphasis remains on shielding user data from foreign interception and ensuring a secure digital environment.

‘Shark Tank’ Star Kevin O’Leary Says He’s Near Deal to Buy TikTok: ‘We’re Doing This’ https://t.co/PHRyF1wCRo

— TheWrap (@TheWrap) January 6, 2025

Legislative and Judicial Landscape

Amid these developments, legislative efforts continue to unfold. A bill enabling TikTok’s operation under new ownership passed decisively in the House. As TikTok’s parent company ByteDance challenges proposed ownership divestment, O’Leary remains critical of their legal approach. Remarkably, he rejected the idea that the Supreme Court would support TikTok’s appeal, stating, “The Supreme Court is gonna turn this down! Watch it happen.” His confidence suggests an alternative path to simplifying legal challenges through a change in ownership.

“What’s going to happen here? We don’t have to shut TikTok down. It just has to change ownership to abide by American laws as deemed by an order of Congress,” O’Leary further said.

Republican lawmakers have exercised caution against TikTok, citing data privacy issues tied to its Chinese connections. With state and federal employee bans already enacted, the urgency to reconcile TikTok’s legal status grows. Through O’Leary’s strategic initiative, there lies an opportunity to reconcile freedom of speech concerns with national security imperatives. Whether O’Leary succeeds will depend on his ability to navigate financial and regulatory barriers.