Shark Tank's Kevin O'Leary, Dodgers CEO Among Investors Eyeing TikTok Purchase and Revamp

Shark Tank's Kevin O'Leary and Dodgers CEO Frank McCourt are among the investors considering the purchase and revamp of TikTok, which faces pressure to sell its shares by January 2025. Additionally, Robert Croak, the creator of Silly Bandz, offers valuable insights on achieving financial security in today's edition of Money Making Moves:

> A U.S. court has upheld a law requiring TikTok's Chinese parent company, ByteDance, to sell its stake by January 19, 2025, or face a nationwide ban. TikTok plans to challenge the ruling at the Supreme Court, arguing it violates First Amendment rights and could silence over 170 million American users. Meanwhile, prominent investors, including Kevin O’Leary, Steven Mnuchin, and Frank McCourt, have expressed interest in acquiring and reshaping the platform. The looming deadline has sparked widespread speculation about TikTok's future, with potential buyers preparing strategies to secure the app's extensive user base and influence.

> Utah's video game industry has grown over 230% in the last decade, generating over $2.3 billion in revenue in 2023 and expected to reach $4.5 billion within five years. The University of Utah's renowned video game program has been a key driver, producing graduates who have contributed to top-grossing games like Hogwarts Legacy and Fortnite. Industry pioneers such as Atari founder Nolan Bushnell and Nintendo of America's Doug Bowser are among its alumni, and the program has risen to No. 4 in Princeton Review’s 2024 rankings. With a $25 million investment for expansion, the program continues to attract global talent, fueling Utah’s prominence in the gaming world.

> Mondelez International is reportedly exploring the acquisition of Hershey, potentially creating one of the world’s largest confectionery companies. However, talks are in the early stages and not guaranteed to result in a deal. Hershey shares surged 19% following the news, while Mondelez shares dipped, reflecting market reactions. The Hershey Trust, which controls the company, would need to approve any deal, a hurdle that led Mondelez to abandon a previous $23 billion bid in 2016. Rising input costs and weakening demand have pressured chocolate makers, spurring industry deal-making, with a potential Mondelez-Hershey combination strengthening Mondelez’s position in the U.S. chocolate market.

Start a unique business specializing in antiquities renovation, catering to historic homeowners seeking to restore original features in their homes. Focus on sourcing and refurbishing vintage fixtures like cabinet pulls, bricks, and window panes to match the character of older properties. With growing interest in preserving vintage charm, you can carve out a niche by offering personalized restoration services tailored to specific architectural styles. This business is ideal for creative individuals with a passion for history and craftsmanship.

Transform your passion for photography into a profitable venture by specializing in a niche market. Instead of offering general photography services, focus on areas like cosplay, pin-up, or sports to differentiate yourself from others. A niche focus positions you as an expert, attracting clients who value specialized skills and unique expertise. This approach enhances your visibility and increases your chances of building a successful photography business.

> In 2024, YouTube solidified its status as a cultural epicenter, shaping how people consume news, entertainment, and trends. From the U.S. presidential election to viral challenges like the "Bye Bye Bye" dance, the platform highlighted major events and pop culture moments. Indie animation thrived with projects like The Amazing Digital Circus and Hazbin Hotel, showcasing the power of independent creators to captivate audiences and attract studio interest. With its role in amplifying creators, sparking discussions, and fostering communities, YouTube remains a dominant force in shaping modern culture. To know more on how to be part of this industry, click here. 

> Robert Croak, the creator of Silly Bandz, shares three key lessons for achieving financial success. First, prioritize saving and investing over splurging on luxury items, waiting until you’ve built at least £78,000 ($100,000) in savings or investments before indulging in high-end purchases. Second, focus your 20s on developing skills and building a personal brand to set the foundation for long-term career success. Lastly, invest in income-generating real estate, such as duplexes or quadplexes, instead of buying a personal home, to create a steady stream of wealth through rental income and property appreciation.

> Jack Cowin, founder of Competitive Foods Australia, turned childhood entrepreneurship into a billion-dollar fast-food empire. After bringing Kentucky Fried Chicken to Australia in 1969, he later launched Hungry Jack’s (Burger King) and became Domino’s Pizza’s largest Australian shareholder. Starting with $300,000 borrowed from 30 Canadians, he grew his business into a $3 billion enterprise generating $300 million annually. Cowin attributes his success to hard work, passion, and building trust with investors who believed in his vision.