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This article was published on August 6, 2020

Microsoft reportedly wants to buy up TikTok’s India operations too


Microsoft reportedly wants to buy up TikTok’s India operations too Image by: Kon Karampelas/Unsplash

After aiming to buy TikTok’s US, Canada, Australia , and New Zealand business, Microsoft might be looking to include the Indian and European regions in the deal as well.

According to a report by the Financial Times, the Seattle-based tech company wants to buy TikTok’s global business operations. Sources familiar with the matter told FT that a “deal is in works” for Microsoft to buy TikTok India. However, if it falls through, Bytedance might look for foreign or Indian investors.

The Chinese tech giant would also look to license its technology and share revenue with new investors.

Last month, India banned TikTok and 58 other Chinese apps after a skirmish at the border between the two nations. The country was the short video app’s biggest market before the ban with over 200 million active users.

After TikTok’s ban, a swarm of short video apps has emerged in the market including local products such as Chingari, Roposo, Moj, and Mitron, and international apps such as Triller and Instagram Reels. However, there’s no clear winner or leader in the segment at the moment.

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