Trump confirms Larry Ellison, Michael Dell, and the Murdochs will join the TikTok takeover group. Here’s what it means for the app’s US future.
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Trump Says Larry Ellison, Michael Dell and Murdochs Will Be Involved in TikTok Deal
President Donald Trump announced on Sunday that some of the biggest names in technology and media — Larry Ellison, Michael Dell, and Rupert & Lachlan Murdoch — will be part of the consortium to take over TikTok’s US operations. The group will help manage the app’s algorithm, one of the most sensitive aspects of the acquisition deal.
Tech and Media Titans Join TikTok’s US Consortium
In an interview on Fox News’ Sunday Briefing, Trump said:
“You know, they’re very well-known people. And Larry Ellison is one of them. He’s involved. He’s a great guy. Michael Dell is involved. I hate to tell you this, but a man named Lachlan is involved.”
While the Murdochs may not invest individually, Fox Corp. — led by Lachlan Murdoch — could become part of the investment consortium. This move aligns with Fox’s strategy of expanding into digital platforms as traditional broadcasting faces revenue challenges.
What the Consortium Means for TikTok’s US Future
The TikTok deal requires that at least 80% of the company’s US assets be sold to American investors, following a law passed by Congress in April 2024.
Key details of the investor group include:
- Oracle, led by Larry Ellison, will handle US data hosting and algorithm oversight.
- Michael Dell, CEO of Dell Technologies, joins as a major investor.
- Fox Corp., connected to Rupert and Lachlan Murdoch, could take part as a strategic media player.
- Seven-member TikTok board, with six seats reserved for American representatives.
This restructuring ensures that TikTok remains operational in the US while addressing concerns about data privacy and national security.
Why Fox and Dell’s Involvement Matters
- Fox Corp. could leverage TikTok’s massive user base to expand its digital media influence.
- Michael Dell brings financial power and credibility from the tech sector.
- Oracle, already hosting TikTok’s US data since 2020, strengthens its role as the backbone of the platform’s infrastructure.
Together, these players could turn TikTok’s US operations into a model for American-led governance of foreign apps.
Trump’s Push Toward Finalizing the Deal
Trump said he recently had “a very productive call” with Chinese President Xi Jinping, signaling progress toward completing the deal. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt confirmed that the final board structure and privacy protections are nearly complete, adding that Oracle will lead US data oversight.
This confirms that TikTok’s algorithm, one of the main sticking points in negotiations, will remain under domestic control moving forward.
FAQs
Q1. Who are the key figures joining the TikTok deal?
Larry Ellison, Michael Dell, and Rupert & Lachlan Murdoch are among the prominent names expected to be part of TikTok’s US investor consortium.
Q2. Will Fox Corp. directly invest in TikTok?
Yes, Fox Corp. is expected to join the group, though Rupert and Lachlan Murdoch will not be investing as individuals.
Q3. Why is Oracle important in the TikTok deal?
Oracle will host TikTok’s US data, oversee the algorithm, and ensure compliance with American privacy and national security regulations.
Q4. What law required TikTok to sell part of its US assets?
A bill passed in April 2024 mandated TikTok sell about 80% of its assets to American investors to avoid a nationwide ban.
Q5. When will the TikTok deal be finalized?
The deal is still under regulatory review, but Trump confirmed significant progress following talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping.
Conclusion
The inclusion of Larry Ellison, Michael Dell, and the Murdochs in the TikTok deal highlights how influential US investors are reshaping the platform’s future. With Oracle leading data security and Fox Corp. potentially joining as a digital media partner, the deal could mark a turning point for TikTok’s operations in the United States.
As regulatory approvals move forward, TikTok’s fate now rests on a powerful consortium of tech and media leaders, ensuring the app remains both popular and secure for its millions of American users.
👉 Do you think TikTok will thrive under this new US-led ownership group? Share your opinion in the comments!