Former President Donald Trump has signed an executive order establishing a sovereign wealth fund designed to potentially acquire TikTok, the popular social media platform. The announcement was made on February 3, 2025, during a press conference where Trump highlighted the financial implications and strategic significance of the decision. According to Trump, the fund could generate ‘billions of dollars’ and ensure greater financial independence for the United States. ‘This is not just about TikTok; it’s about securing our digital future and protecting American interests,’ Trump stated. The sovereign wealth fund is intended to serve as a financial buffer that would allow the U.S. government to take a more proactive approach in the technology sector. The president detailed that funds will be sourced from existing federal budgets and investments, aiming to reach a target of $100 billion over the next five years. Trump’s move follows concerns about privacy and security issues related to TikTok, which has faced scrutiny over its ownership by ByteDance, a Chinese company. While Trump’s administration had previously attempted to ban the app, this new strategy reflects a pivot towards acquisition rather than prohibition. Experts are weighing in on the potential risks and benefits, with analysts suggesting that such a purchase could create a precedent for government intervention in tech markets. The executive order has sparked a mixture of enthusiasm and skepticism among lawmakers, many of whom are debating the implications of the fund’s establishment on both domestic and international levels. As this story develops, further insights from both sides of the political spectrum are anticipated, making it a critical topic for future discussions on U.S. tech policy.
Trump Signs Executive Order to Create Sovereign Wealth Fund Aimed at Acquiring TikTok
