TikTok has recently been in the news due to ongoing scrutiny over its ownership and data privacy concerns. The U.S. government has mandated that ByteDance, TikTok's Chinese parent company, find a buyer for the app or face a potential ban in the country. This situation has intensified with high-profile figures like Elon Musk publicly stating they have no interest in acquiring the platform. Additionally, TikTok has faced legal challenges, including lawsuits from families of victims alleging the app promotes dangerous pranks to boost engagement.
Launched in 2016, TikTok is a video-sharing social networking service owned by ByteDance, a Beijing-based technology company founded in 2012 by Zhang Yiming. The platform allows users to create and share short videos, often featuring music, dance, and lip-syncing. TikTok has rapidly gained popularity, particularly among younger audiences, and boasts around 170 million users in the United States alone. Its algorithm-driven content delivery has sparked discussions about user engagement and safety, further complicating its standing in the global market.
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As of March 3, 2025, the U.S. stock market has underperformed compared to global markets, with the S&P 500 rising only 1% this year, while the MSCI All Country World Index excluding the U.S. has gained nearly 7%. Concerns over high valuations and a stronger dollar impacting profits are significant factors.
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TikTok has condemned Australia's proposed regulation banning under-16s from most social media, claiming it unfairly exempts YouTube. The platform argues this creates an anti-competitive environment, undermining the government's intent to protect young users. The law is set to take effect by December 2025.
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As the April 5 deadline approaches for TikTok's sale, President Trump is negotiating with multiple interested parties, including Oracle and a consortium led by Frank McCourt. The deal aims to comply with a bipartisan law mandating divestment from its Chinese parent company, ByteDance, amid national security concerns.
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Albania's government is considering a ban on TikTok following parental concerns about children's safety online. Education Minister Ogerta Manastirliu announced discussions with TikTok for safety measures, while opposition figures criticize the ban as an infringement on free speech. A protest against the ban is scheduled for March 15.
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Huawei has unveiled the Pura X, a premium bi-fold smartphone featuring a 6.3-inch screen and running on HarmonyOS Next. This launch signifies Huawei's continued resilience in the smartphone market amid US technology restrictions, with the device priced at 7,499 yuan (US$1,037).
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Conor McGregor's recent visit to the White House on St. Patrick's Day has sparked backlash in Ireland. His anti-immigration remarks and meeting with Donald Trump have drawn criticism from Irish leaders and a rape crisis charity, raising questions about his political ambitions amid ongoing legal troubles. McGregor has suggested a presidential run in Ireland.
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Recent studies reveal that popular TikTok videos about ADHD often contain misinformation, leading viewers to misinterpret symptoms and potentially self-diagnose. Researchers urge caution, emphasizing the need for reliable information, especially as ADHD prescriptions rise in England post-pandemic.
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Recent discussions highlight the rise of colorful Gazelle sneakers as a must-have for spring, while a mom's 'old money' outfit sparks debate over fashion choices in elite school admissions. Both stories reflect current trends in fashion and social perceptions.
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Yisroel Liebb, an Orthodox Jewish man, has filed a lawsuit against United Airlines and U.S. Customs and Border Protection after being forcibly removed from an airplane bathroom, exposing him to other passengers. The incident occurred on January 28 during a flight from Tulum, Mexico, to Houston, Texas, leading to missed connections and alleged mistreatment by authorities.
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Joe Gatto, former star of 'Impractical Jokers,' has announced he will enter an inpatient treatment program following allegations of sexual misconduct. Gatto has denied the claims but stated he needs time away from the public eye to focus on personal issues. He has canceled all upcoming tour dates.
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In 2025, brands like Gap, Topshop, and Forever 21 are witnessing a revival, driven by strategic leadership changes and nostalgic marketing. Gap's sales rose 7% as it embraces 90s aesthetics, while Topshop hints at a return to physical stores. Forever 21's legacy continues to influence young shoppers despite past struggles.
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David Ibarra, a 31-year-old Air Force senior airman, was arrested for allegedly exploiting a minor he met online. He faces charges of sexual exploitation and coercion after soliciting explicit images from a 12-year-old girl, leading to his arraignment in New York federal court. Ibarra has pleaded not guilty and is being held without bail.
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Meta has launched a new Friends Tab on Facebook, focusing on personal interactions by showcasing friends' posts, stories, and birthdays. Initially available in the US and Canada, this feature aims to recapture the platform's original essence amid competition from TikTok and Instagram.
