Tuesday, September 16, 2025 -TikTok’s path forward took a sharp turn after hedge fund manager Scott Bessent said the platform would “retain Chinese characteristics” even if sold.
The remark comes as political pressure in the U.S. mounts to push for a divestiture, with lawmakers citing concerns about data security and influence from Beijing. Bessent’s comments suggest that cultural and operational ties may persist regardless of ownership.
Reactions to the statement have been divided. Critics warn that such characteristics could mean continued influence from Chinese interests, undermining U.S. efforts to separate the app from its origins.
Others downplay the concern, arguing that TikTok’s global reach makes it impossible to strip away its identity without damaging the platform itself. Users, meanwhile, appear largely unfazed, continuing to drive engagement at record levels.
The potential sale remains under close watch, and Bessent’s remarks may set the stage for more scrutiny from regulators. How the platform balances global expansion with its cultural roots will be a defining factor in its future and could reshape debates about digital sovereignty and the reach of foreign-owned tech in the U.S.
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