ByteDance valuation said to hit record US$550 billion in proposed equity sale
South China Morning Post
by Vincent ChowFebruary 25, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
ByteDance, the Chinese company behind TikTok, is reportedly valued at a record $550 billion following an equity sale by US private equity firm General Atlantic. This deal, which has yet to finalize, reflects a significant increase from ByteDance’s valuation of $400 billion as recently as mid-2023. The sale highlights the company's rapid growth and investor confidence despite ongoing regulatory scrutiny in key markets like the US.
General Atlantic, which first invested in ByteDance in 2017, is selling a portion of its shares with plans to close the transaction by March 2024. This move comes as some of the firm’s funds approach the end of their lifecycle, prompting a need to realize returns on its investment. The sale underscores ByteDance's ability to maintain high valuations despite challenges such as geopolitical tensions and competition from other social media platforms.
ByteDance’s surge in valuation is notable given its recent agreement with the US government to operate under a new joint-venture structure majority-owned by American entities, finalised in January 2024. This deal has helped restore investor confidence in ByteDance's stability and long-term viability in the US market. The company continues to dominate global social media, with TikTok leading in app downloads and user engagement.
For readers interested in global business trends, this development underscores the resilience of tech startups despite economic uncertainties. ByteDance’s valuation reflects its strategic adaptability and growing influence in international markets. As the sale progresses, it will provide further insights into investor sentiment toward Chinese tech companies operating globally. This story is a key indicator of broader trends in cross-border investments and the evolving landscape of digital platforms worldwide.
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Originally published on South China Morning Post on 2/25/2026