TikTok Deal Optimism Grows as General Atlantic CEO Speaks Out
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General Atlantic CEO Bill Ford, a board member of TikTok's parent company, expressed optimism about reaching a deal to keep the short-video app operating in the United States, Reuters reports. Ford, speaking at a panel debate during the World Economic Forum in Davos, said, "The objective is for TikTok to continue operating. I have a sense of optimism that we can meet U.S. security needs and not sell the company."
Ford's comments come after a recent executive order from US President Donald Trump, signed on Monday, extended the deadline for the TikTok ban by 75 days. The app was initially scheduled to be shut down in the US on January 19. The new order aims to address national security concerns raised by the app's Chinese ownership.
General Atlantic's investment in ByteDance, TikTok's parent company, highlights the firm's significant stake in the outcome of these negotiations. The company's positive outlook suggests a potential path forward that satisfies both US security concerns and TikTok's desire to continue operating in the crucial US market.