Como Trump está prestes a iniciar seu segundo mandato em 20 de janeiro, Musk parece ocupar uma posição importante no “quadro geral” desta vez. Há rumores de que ele pode adquirir o TikTok. Isso parece ultrajante, mas quando você pensa bem, acaba sendo um pouco ultrajante! Afinal, Boss Ma é o geek da tecnologia que adora fazer “grandes movimentos” na história.
A “velocidade de vida e morte” do TikTok
Vamos primeiro falar sobre a situação atual do TikTok. Este pequeno gigante do vídeo não está tendo uma vida fácil nos Estados Unidos. Já no primeiro mandato de Trump, o TikTok foi alvo de ataques devido a questões de “segurança nacional” e enfrentou a escolha de “vender seus negócios nos EUA ou bani-los”. Embora tenha sido adiada por vários anos, a recente decisão judicial deixou claro: se a ByteDance não alienar os negócios da TikTok nos EUA, a proibição entrará em vigor o mais tardar em 19 de janeiro. Simplificando, significa “vender para continuar vivendo”.
However, it's not that simple. TikTok is one of the most popular short video platforms globally, with over half of Americans using it, especially the younger generation. Moreover, TikTok is a 'big player' valued at over $200 billion, and companies looking to buy it either lack funds or are concerned about antitrust scrutiny. Currently, there are not many suitable buyers.
The 'brotherhood' of Trump and Musk
Trump's attitude makes this matter even more interesting. During the campaign, TikTok helped Trump attract a considerable number of young voters, so it’s unlikely he would just cut TikTok off once in office. A more likely scenario is that he seeks to buy some time for TikTok while picking a buyer he favors. And Musk is a potential 'designated candidate'.
Why Musk? Look, he has money, ambition, and international business. Tesla's super factory in China has fostered good relations with China, which is particularly crucial. If he acquires TikTok, he can integrate it into X's ecosystem, advancing towards his 'universal app' goal, while also finding a subtle balance in Sino-US relations. For Trump, Musk is a perfect candidate, not as bothersome as Meta, yet capable of turning TikTok into a new trump card.
Musk taking over TikTok could change the game rules
If Musk really acquires TikTok, it will definitely spark a new internet revolution.
1. The ultimate puzzle of the X ecosystem
Musk has always said X should become a 'universal app' that can do everything. From social networking to payments, from news to live streaming, X is expanding step by step. If you add TikTok, a top traffic portal, X's influence will reach ceiling levels. Short videos + social + payments + commerce is simply the ultimate form of the future internet.
2. Positive for cryptocurrencies
Musk is a super fan of cryptocurrencies, having already popularized Dogecoin. If he acquires TikTok, it will surely involve innovations using cryptocurrency. For instance, rewarding TikTok creators with Dogecoin or shopping and trading on TikTok using X Money. The scene of browsing 'Douyin' while purchasing cryptocurrencies is about to arrive, and Dogecoin along with other currencies may surge again.
3. The subtle bridge in Sino-US relations
Musk has business in China and influence in the U.S. If he takes over TikTok, he might play the role of a 'lubricant' between Sino-US relations. For TikTok, this might be the best solution to avoid being banned.
A small guess: Is a major reshuffle in the tech world coming?
Though everything is still at the speculation stage, it must be said that the possibility of Musk and Trump joining forces is quite high. If Musk truly takes over TikTok, it will not only disrupt the short video industry but also bring a new earthquake to cryptocurrencies, international relations, and even the entire tech circle.
In summary: Musk is indeed a mysterious man, and every move he makes is hard to decipher yet commands respect! Let's wait and see how Boss Ma performs this grand show regarding TikTok's fate!
