Reddit Explores Acquisition of TikTok US with Blockchain Integration

Alexis Ohanian, co-founder of Reddit, has announced plans to potentially acquire TikTok US and transition the platform to a blockchain.

This move aims to enhance control over TikTok's US operations amid the evolving geopolitical climate. It forms part of Project Liberty's initiative termed "The People’s Bid for TikTok", led by real estate mogul Frank McCourt, with Ohanian contributing as a strategic advisor.

Another Major Player Interested in TikTok US

Complications during President Trump’s administration raised financial uncertainty in US-China relations, as evidenced by China’s proposed $1.5 trillion fiscal stimulus package. The Trump administration maintained a tough stance against Chinese firms, including ByteDance, TikTok's parent company.

After a ban on TikTok in the US in early 2025, the app was later allowed to operate again. The Trump administration mandated that ByteDance must either sell TikTok US or move its operations outside the United States.

Among the rumored potential buyers were tech magnate Elon Musk and content creator MrBeast, with offers reaching up to $50 billion. However, no final decision has been made by ByteDance.

In a recent tweet on platform X, Ohanian confirmed Reddit's interest in acquiring TikTok US, expressing his ambition to incorporate blockchain technology to enhance user experience. Ohanian remarked, "I’m officially now one of the people trying to buy TikTok US — and bring it on-chain. TikTok has been a game-changer for creators, and its future should be built by them.”

Reddit's Vision for Data Revolution

This initiative plans to utilize the Frequency protocol on the Polkadot (DOT) blockchain to redefine TikTok's structure.

The objective is to grant users more control over their personal data, moving it away from centralized corporate control. Transitioning TikTok onto the blockchain could usher in an era of decentralized social platforms, where users transition from mere consumers to actual stakeholders.

“Frequency will empower these principles to become reality. And with transparency and accountability at the core, this new TikTok won’t just be fairer—it’ll be GREATER,” Ohanian told followers.

Experts believe that if this acquisition takes place, it will set a precedent as the first major social media platform to operate on blockchain technology, marking a significant shift from Web2 to Web3. Currently, TikTok boasts an impressive user base of approximately 170 million across the United States, according to recent data.

Reddit's ambitions also extend into artificial intelligence, blockchain initiatives, and NFTs. Plans to monetize user chat data through an API for AI training purposes showcase its attempt to innovate while managing operational costs. Additionally, Reddit has invested in Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), and Polygon (POL), reflecting its supportive stance towards cryptocurrency and blockchain progress.