Former Activision CEO Kotick Explores TikTok Buyout Amid Looming US Ban

Bobby Kotick, the former chief executive of Activision Blizzard, is reportedly exploring a potential acquisition of TikTok, as the popular video-sharing app faces a possible ban in the United States. According to The Wall Street Journal, Kotick has engaged in discussions with ByteDance, TikTok's parent company, regarding a buyout that could amount to hundreds of billions of dollars.

This development coincides with the introduction of a new bill by US lawmakers that would mandate ByteDance to divest TikTok within six months or face removal from US app stores. President Joe Biden has indicated his willingness to approve the bill should it pass Congress.

The Wall Street Journal further reports that Kotick and OpenAI CEO Sam Altman discussed a potential partnership to acquire TikTok during a recent dinner.

Kotick's interest in TikTok emerges following the conclusion of his 30-year tenure leading Activision Blizzard, which was acquired by Microsoft last year. During his leadership, the company faced allegations of fostering a workplace culture that enabled sexual harassment and discrimination. Accusations were made against Kotick himself, with claims that he was aware of misconduct and failed to fully inform the board. While Activision Blizzard has refuted these claims as "misleading," the controversy has cast a shadow over his departure.

Lawmakers have raised concerns about data privacy and TikTok's ties to China. The Biden administration has already banned the app on state devices and expressed support for a nationwide ban. In contrast, former President Donald Trump, who previously sought to ban TikTok, has shifted his stance, arguing that a ban would benefit TikTok's competitors, such as Facebook and YouTube.

As the bill targeting TikTok gains traction, the app has urged its American users to advocate on its behalf, prompting them to contact their representatives. The bill, having cleared a committee last week, is anticipated to pass a House vote on Wednesday. If approved, it will proceed to the Senate and, ultimately, to the President for signature.