EXCLUSIVE: ARAVIND Srinivas, CEO of AI startup Conplexity, has confirmed his company’s bid for TikTok, emphasizing that the proposal meets all the requirements set by investors and former President Donald Trump, including ensuring U.S. ownership and control.
In his first public comments on the matter, Srinivas stated, “We’re not looking to disrupt existing shareholders, but we’re also addressing what President Trump wants—U.S. control and government involvement in the new entity. Our offer satisfies both.”
Details of the Offer
Conplexity, an AI company launched in January, has proposed a merger with TikTok’s U.S. operations. Under the deal, the U.S. government would hold a 50% stake in the combined entity, with plans for an eventual initial public offering (IPO).
Trump’s Renewed Support for TikTok
After briefly reconsidering his stance last month, Trump has reaffirmed his support for TikTok, ensuring its continued operation for its 170 million U.S. users. He also outlined conditions for the platform’s future.
On Truth Social, Trump stated, “I want the U.S. to have a 50% ownership stake in a joint venture. This way, we save TikTok, keep it in safe hands, and allow it to thrive. Without our approval, there’s no TikTok. With it, the platform could be worth hundreds of billions—even trillions.”
The proposed entity would be fully American-controlled. Srinivas added, “Our focus is on ensuring clear U.S. oversight. We want accountability, with American society having the ability to hire and fire TikTok’s CEO and ensure no data is shared with China.” He also praised TikTok CEO Shou Zi Chew, calling him “very capable.”
Synergies Between Conplexity and TikTok
Beyond the proposed ownership structure, Srinivas highlighted potential synergies between Conplexity and TikTok, particularly among younger users who increasingly rely on TikTok for real-time searches, such as finding restaurants and local businesses.
Challenging Google’s Dominance
The merger could also position the new entity as a competitor to Google, which has faced criticism over censorship allegations during the Trump administration. Google has denied these claims, and its CEO Sundar Pichai attended Trump’s inauguration.
Srinivas commented, “Google appears to have unchecked power. Through this structure, we hope to challenge that dominance. They control YouTube and Google Search—we aim to create a meaningful rivalry.”
Potential Investors and Suitors
hile specific terms, funding, and investors have yet to be disclosed, interest in the deal remains high. Srinivas noted, “Silicon Valley billionaires and sovereign wealth funds from U.S.-allied countries are eager to participate in this new entity, including nations that have made significant investments in the U.S.”
Other potential TikTok buyers include investor Kevin O’Leary, who has offered $20 billion, and tech leaders like Elon Musk and Larry Ellison, both of whom Trump has endorsed as suitable candidates.
