China
TIKTOK’s global growth and expansion : a bubble or reality ?
Social media has offered amazing tools and apps that have revolutionized the lifestyle of people. Social networks always keep you connected with your friends, colleagues and family. Some creative apps have become very popular in recent times especially among the enthusiastic youth who create funny clips with the help of TikTok.
Tiktok is the greatest platform for creating short mobile videos. These videos contribute to inspire creativity and bring smiles on the faces of people even amid pandemic and lockdowns. The app has become very popular even in Pandemic and as some of the best informative and educational content went Viral.
Tiktok is the subsidiary of Grand Tech Startup Byetdance -a leading Chinese Startup with mushrooming growth. TikTok has always been expanding its reach worldwide due to its aggressive expansion programs. At present, Tiktok has offices in Los Angeles, New York, London, Paris, Berlin, Dubai, Mumbai, Singapore, Jakarta, Seoul, and Tokyo.
Tiktok was founded in 2012 by Zhang Yiming. Video sharing is the most popular segment among youth and the company has tapped tremendous growth. The Company is also called douyin in China but its global version is called Tiktok. The continual growth empowered it to acquire its American rival app musical.ly. The Company has expanded its outreach globally.
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New Dimensions i.e. Online Education
The covid-19 has affected the Education badly throughout the world and the online digital education has been getting ground. Most of the Schools, Colleges, Universities, Coaching centres and Academies have anchored to Online Education such as live lectures, quizzes, Presentations and Webinars. Tiktok has announced to enter the online Education in India as some of the content uploaded on Tiktok related to Education and learning has become viral earning millions of views and generating great revenue prompting Tiktok to enter the world of Education.
Tiktok has already interacted with content creators and firms in India to Provide innovative Learning material as all the educational institutions are closed for an indefinite period and Tiktok finds it the perfect time to enter the world of Education.
According to statistics that social Media app used by more than 200 million users every month in India and Tiktok will cover the range of Science and Math related topics to help students learn from this service.
It has partnered with tech startups Vedanta, Toppr, Made Easy and Gradeup that will produce educational content for TikTok. It is also collaborating with social enterprises Josh Talks and the Nudge Foundation to mentor 5,000 people across India.
Continuing Growth amid Pandemic
According to reports of Forbes and Bloomberg, Byetdance surpasses Uber growth as it has become the top Startup with value at $78 Billion. Byetdance is the parent company of Tiktok that runs various services. Byetdance has made London as its strong base owing to trade war of the US with China in the aftermath of the Wuhan covid-19 outbreak. Trump Administration has imposed limitations on Chinese companies to pressurize China to accept US’ demands. Byetdance has attracted many professionals from Google, Yahoo, Microsoft and Apple to establish a strong hub at London to expand its outreach in Europe.
Hiring than Firing amid Pandemic: A big surprise
It is really surprising that when the biggest companies and Franchises are constantly laying off their employees owing to prolonged lockdowns due to Covid-19, The Parent company of Tiktok, the Byetdance has gone on a hiring spree and plans to recruit 10000 professionals in engineering, software and marketing fields that has stunned the world as even tech giants Google, Yahoo, Microsoft have laid off their staff and closed their offices over the covid-19 outbreak advising their employees to work from home.
Increasing Visibility of Byetdance Globally
With the ambitious journey of growth and reaping the enormous benefits, the company has no more remained a secret for the world as its subsidiary Tiktok has broken all the records of usability and popularity exploring new frontiers with successful footprint. The recent leap of Tiktok to launch its Education initiative in India will further its grip in the Asian markets.
Will the bubble burst or Sustain Market Shocks?
The Byetdance has established footprints in Asia and Europe building strong basis and marketing its services, it is estimated that it can sustain the jolts of pandemic and will retain its position as some reports regarding bubble reputation will fade away forever as the popularity graph of the company maintains upward trend and keeps going.
The majority of the world population is youth so if Tiktok focuses on youth-related interests by adopting AI practices, it has already achieved the milestone.
The Tech experts argue that TikTok has foreseen opportunity amid pandemic when the entire markets have crashed, Offices, Business, schools, colleges have been closed and stock markets crashed, even in such circumstances, if a company keeps hiring that means it established its strong bases so the bubble is not going to burst likely in post-Covid-19 World provided that it adheres to its policies of customer retention, market intelligence and the most important Artificial intelligence to explore the interests of users and offering more relevant content.
Besides profits, Tiktok pledged a huge amount for Vaccine development for Africa under its Tiktok for Good endeavours.
China
The Battle Over TikTok: Can the Company Fight Back?
The battle over TikTok has raged for months as the United States government has grown increasingly concerned about the potential security risks posed by the popular social media app’s Chinese ownership. In August 2020, President Trump signed an executive order that would have banned TikTok in the US unless its ownership was transferred to an American company. A federal judge later blocked the order, but the threat of a ban has loomed over the app ever since.
Recently, the US Congress took a first step towards forcing TikTok’s Chinese owner, ByteDance, to sell the app. The move came in the form of the Holding Foreign Companies Accountable Act, which was signed into law in December 2020. The law requires foreign companies listed on US stock exchanges to comply with US auditing regulations or face delisting. ByteDance is currently in the process of exploring options to comply with the law, including a possible sale of TikTok to a US buyer.
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Key Takeaways
- The US government has been concerned about the security risks posed by TikTok’s Chinese ownership, and the threat of a ban has loomed over the app for months.
- The Holding Foreign Companies Accountable Act requires foreign companies listed on US stock exchanges to comply with US auditing regulations or face delisting, which could force ByteDance to sell TikTok to a US buyer.
- The battle over TikTok highlights the economic and political stakes of technology ownership and raises important questions about legislative actions and corporate responses to national security concerns.
Legislative Actions
The battle over TikTok has led to a series of legislative actions by the US Congress. In August 2020, Congress took the first step towards forcing the app’s Chinese owner, ByteDance, to divest TikTok’s US operations to a US-based company. This was in response to concerns over national security and the potential for user data to be accessed by the Chinese government.
Congressional Steps Toward Divestment
The divestment order was issued by the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS), a government agency responsible for reviewing foreign investment in US companies. This order required ByteDance to sell TikTok’s US operations within 90 days, or face a ban on the app in the US.
In response, ByteDance filed a lawsuit challenging the divestment order, arguing that it was not given due process and that the order was politically motivated. However, the lawsuit was dismissed by a federal judge in December 2020.
Legal Implications
The battle over TikTok has raised important legal questions about the relationship between national security and foreign investment in the US. The divestment order issued by CFIUS was based on concerns over national security, but it is unclear whether such concerns can be used to justify forcing a foreign company to sell its US operations.
Moreover, the battle over TikTok has highlighted the challenges of regulating social media platforms that are owned by foreign companies. TikTok’s Chinese ownership has raised concerns over the potential for user data to be accessed by the Chinese government, leading to calls for greater regulation of social media platforms.
Overall, the battle over TikTok has demonstrated the complex legal and regulatory challenges posed by foreign investment in the US, particularly in the technology sector. While Congress has taken steps towards divesting TikTok’s US operations, the legal implications of such actions remain unclear.
Corporate Response
Company’s Defense Strategy
TikTok’s Chinese owner, ByteDance, has vowed to fight back against the US Congress’s decision to force it to sell off the app’s US operations. The company is reportedly considering several options to defend itself, including legal action, lobbying efforts, and potential partnerships with US companies.
ByteDance has argued that the move by Congress is politically motivated and violates the company’s rights. The company has also emphasized that TikTok’s US user data is stored in the US and is not subject to Chinese government control.
To bolster its defence, ByteDance has hired a team of high-profile lawyers, including former US Solicitor General Theodore Olson. The company is also reportedly exploring potential partnerships with US companies, such as Microsoft, to help address concerns about data security.
Public Relations Efforts
In addition to its legal and lobbying efforts, ByteDance has launched a public relations campaign to defend the app and its Chinese ownership. The company has emphasized TikTok’s popularity and cultural impact, highlighting its role in promoting diversity and creativity.
ByteDance has also sought to distance itself from the Chinese government, emphasizing that it operates independently and is not subject to Chinese censorship laws. The company has also emphasized its commitment to data privacy and security, noting that it stores user data in the US and other countries outside of China.
Despite these efforts, ByteDance faces an uphill battle to defend TikTok’s US operations. The company will need to address concerns about data security and potential Chinese government influence, while also convincing US lawmakers and regulators that it can operate independently and in the best interests of US users.
Economic and Political Stakes
The battle over TikTok has major economic and political implications for both the United States and China. With more than 91 million users in the US alone, TikTok has become a significant player in the social media landscape, and its popularity has made it a target of concern for US lawmakers. The recent moves by the US Congress to force the app’s Chinese owner to sell it off have raised questions about the future of the app and its impact on US-China relations.
Impact on US-China Relations
The battle over TikTok has the potential to further strain already tense relations between the US and China. The Trump administration has been vocal in its criticism of China, and the move to force the sale of TikTok is just the latest in a series of actions taken against Chinese companies. The Chinese government has responded with its own set of measures, including new restrictions on US tech companies operating in China.
The ongoing battle over TikTok has also highlighted concerns about data privacy and security. US lawmakers have raised concerns about the app’s data collection practices and the potential for the Chinese government to access user data. China has denied any wrongdoing and has accused the US of using national security concerns as a pretext for protectionism.
Consequences for Global Markets
The battle over TikTok has wider implications for global markets. The app’s popularity has made it a significant player in the social media landscape, and its forced sale could have ripple effects on the tech industry as a whole. The move could also have implications for other Chinese companies operating in the US, and could lead to a wider crackdown on Chinese investment in the US.
The battle over TikTok is likely to continue for some time, and the outcome is far from certain. However, the economic and political stakes are high, and the impact of the battle could be felt for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the rationale behind the US Congress’s move to force a sale of TikTok?
The US Congress has expressed concerns about the potential national security risks posed by TikTok’s ownership by Chinese company ByteDance. Lawmakers have cited fears that TikTok’s data collection practices may be used by the Chinese government to gather sensitive information on US citizens. The move to force a sale of TikTok is seen as a way to mitigate these risks.
What is the status of the legislation aimed at banning TikTok?
As of the current date, no legislation has been passed to ban TikTok in the US. However, the US Department of Commerce has taken steps to restrict the app’s use in the country. In September 2020, the Department announced that it would ban TikTok from US app stores, though this decision was later temporarily blocked by a federal judge.
How might TikTok’s ownership respond to the US legislative actions?
TikTok’s ownership has previously pushed back against US legislative actions aimed at restricting the app’s use. The company has argued that it operates independently of the Chinese government and has taken steps to distance itself from its Chinese roots, including hiring US-based executives and establishing a US-based subsidiary. However, it remains to be seen how the company will respond to the latest legislative actions aimed at forcing a sale of the app.
What are the potential consequences for users if TikTok is banned in the US?
If TikTok is banned in the US, users may lose access to the app’s social media features, including the ability to create and share short-form videos. However, it is worth noting that TikTok’s popularity has led to the emergence of several alternative social media apps that offer similar features, such as Instagram’s Reels and Byte, which was created by the co-founder of Vine.
Has any legislation been passed to date regarding the prohibition of TikTok?
As of the current date, no legislation has been passed to prohibit the use of TikTok in the US. However, the US government has taken steps to restrict the app’s use, including the aforementioned ban on TikTok in US app stores.
Which other countries have taken steps to ban or restrict TikTok?
Several other countries, including India and Pakistan, have taken steps to ban or restrict TikTok over concerns about national security and user privacy. In India, TikTok was banned in June 2020, along with several other Chinese-owned apps. In Pakistan, the government has announced plans to ban TikTok unless the app takes steps to address concerns about “obscenity and immorality.”
China
Decoding China’s Consumer Price Rebound Amid Deflation Risks: Insights & Analysis
Introduction
China’s consumer prices have shown signs of rebounding, thanks to a holiday boom. The Consumer Price Index (CPI) grew by 0.7% year on year in February, surpassing expectations and marking the first rise after six consecutive months of decline. However, amidst this positive development, there are looming concerns about deflation risks as factory gate prices continue to fall for the 17th consecutive month. This article delves into the intricacies of China’s current economic landscape, analyzing the factors contributing to the CPI growth and exploring the implications of persistent deflation risks.
1: Understanding China’s Consumer Price Index (CPI) Growth
The Consumer Price Index (CPI) serves as a key indicator of inflation and reflects changes in the prices paid by consumers for goods and services. The recent 0.7% year-on-year growth in China’s CPI in February has sparked optimism among economists and policymakers. This growth can be attributed to various factors, including increased consumer spending during holidays, rising demand for certain goods and services, and government stimulus measures aimed at boosting consumption.
2: Implications of CPI Growth on China’s Economy
The rebound in consumer prices has significant implications for China’s economy. A positive CPI growth indicates a healthier level of inflation, which can stimulate economic activity by encouraging spending and investment. It also reflects improved consumer confidence and overall economic stability. However, it is essential to monitor the sustainability of this growth and its impact on other economic indicators.
3: Analyzing Deflation Risks in China’s Economy
Despite the encouraging CPI growth, there are concerns about deflation risks looming over China’s economy. The continuous decline in factory gate prices for the 17th consecutive month is seen as a warning signal by analysts. Deflation can have detrimental effects on an economy, leading to reduced consumer spending, lower corporate profits, and potential economic stagnation. Policymakers must address these deflation risks proactively to prevent long-term negative consequences.
4: Factors Contributing to Deflation Risks
Several factors contribute to the deflation risks faced by China’s economy. Overcapacity in certain industries, weak global demand, trade tensions, and technological advancements leading to cost reductions are some of the key factors driving down factory gate prices. Addressing these underlying issues requires a comprehensive approach that involves structural reforms, targeted stimulus measures, and strategic policy interventions.
5: Strategies to Mitigate Deflation Risks
To mitigate deflation risks and sustain economic growth, policymakers in China need to implement effective strategies. These may include promoting domestic consumption through incentives and subsidies, fostering innovation and technological advancement to enhance competitiveness, addressing overcapacity through industry restructuring, and maintaining a stable macroeconomic environment through prudent monetary and fiscal policies.
Conclusion
China’s consumer price rebound offers a glimmer of hope amidst challenging economic conditions. While the CPI growth signals positive momentum in the short term, it is essential to address the underlying deflation risks to ensure long-term economic stability and growth. By understanding the factors contributing to CPI growth and deflation risks, policymakers can formulate targeted strategies to navigate these challenges effectively. Monitoring economic indicators closely and implementing proactive measures will be crucial in safeguarding China’s economy against potential downturns.
China
Navigating China’s Economic Landscape: Premier Li Keqiang’s Ambitious Growth Target and Economic Challenges Ahead
Introduction
In a bid to steer China’s economy towards stability and growth, Premier Li Keqiang has set an ambitious 5% growth target while acknowledging and addressing key risks such as the property crisis, high local debt, and persistent deflation. This article delves into the implications of this target, the challenges faced by the Chinese economy, and the strategies being employed to overcome them.
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Understanding China’s Growth Target
Premier Li Keqiang’s announcement of a 5% growth target signifies a strategic move to balance economic expansion with structural reforms. This target reflects the government’s commitment to sustainable growth amidst global uncertainties and domestic challenges.
Tackling the Property Crisis
One of the critical issues facing China’s economy is the property crisis. Premier Li’s vow to tackle this crisis highlights the government’s recognition of the risks posed by a potential property bubble. Measures such as tightening regulations on real estate speculation and promoting affordable housing are being implemented to address this challenge.
Addressing High Local Debt
High local debt poses a significant threat to China’s economic stability. Premier Li’s focus on addressing this issue underscores the government’s efforts to reduce financial risks at the local level. Strategies like improving fiscal transparency, enhancing debt management, and promoting sustainable borrowing practices are crucial in mitigating the impact of high local debt.
Confronting Persistent Deflation
Persistent deflation remains a persistent concern for China’s economy. Premier Li’s acknowledgement of this issue signals a proactive approach towards combating deflationary pressures. Policies aimed at stimulating domestic demand, supporting small businesses, and fostering innovation are key components of the government’s strategy to counter deflation.
The Road Ahead: Navigating Economic Risks
While Premier Li Keqiang’s ambitious growth target sets a positive tone for China’s economic outlook, it is essential to navigate potential risks effectively. Continued vigilance in monitoring financial stability, implementing targeted reforms, and fostering sustainable growth will be crucial in overcoming challenges and achieving long-term prosperity.
Conclusion:
Premier Li Keqiang’s commitment to an ambitious growth target amidst economic challenges reflects China’s resilience and determination to navigate complex economic landscapes. By addressing issues such as the property crisis, high local debt, and persistent deflation, China is laying the groundwork for sustainable growth and stability. As the government implements strategic measures to overcome these challenges, the path towards achieving its growth target becomes clearer, signalling optimism for China’s economic future.
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