The Intelligence from The Economist Under different thumbs: a scant TikTok deal
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Sep 26, 2025 
Tom Wainwright, Media editor at The Economist, dives into the complexities surrounding TikTok's ownership and security concerns. He outlines potential American buyers and the implications of foreign influence on the app's algorithms. The discussion also touches on critical questions about data safety and the effect of U.S. laws on divestment timelines. In addition, the podcast tackles the alarming rise of dengue fever linked to climate change, with insights on its urban spread and preventive measures.
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Algorithm Power Is The Core Risk
- US concern about TikTok centres on data access and algorithm manipulation that could shape Americans' news feeds.
- Removing Chinese ownership may swap one source of influence for another unless governance details cut real control links.
New Owners May Be Politically Close
- Reported buyers include Oracle, Silver Lake and Abu Dhabi‑funded MGX, with ByteDance retaining just under 20%.
- The emerging ownership looks populated by investors friendly to the president rather than neutral third parties.
Data Meets Hollywood In New Media Power
- Owning both big studio media and TikTok-like platforms could let a company combine recommendation algorithms with professional content production.
- That vertical blend would create an unusually powerful new kind of media conglomerate.