China Suspends Antitrust Probe Into Google; TikTok Negotiations Advance

Beijing has halted its antitrust investigation into Google, marking a significant de-escalation in regulatory tensions. China's State Administration for Market Regulation ended the competition inquiry without formal notification to the tech giant, according to sources familiar with the matter. The MOVE comes amid broader geopolitical recalibrations between Washington and Beijing.

Separately, U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent signaled progress in TikTok negotiations following meetings in Madrid. The September 17 deadline—which threatened to ban the app stateside—appears negotiable, with discussions focusing on preserving Chinese cultural elements within security parameters. "They view these features as soft power," Bessent noted, "while our concerns remain strictly national security."

Former President Donald TRUMP hinted at potential Chinese equity retention in TikTok's U.S. operations, stating he would confirm details during an upcoming call with President Xi Jinping. The platform remains politically charged, with Trump acknowledging its role in his 2020 campaign despite current security concerns.