GeopoliticsMedium12 August 2026
2 min read

White House Lifts TikTok Ban on Government Devices; Oracle Gains Security Role

Key Facts

1The Office of Management and Budget issued a memorandum allowing Executive Branch employees to use TikTok on government devices.
2The DOJ stated the U.S. version of the app no longer falls under prohibited categories due to new cybersecurity measures.
3American investors including Oracle, MGX, and Silver Lake own a 45% stake in the TikTok U.S. Data Security Joint Venture.

In a move reflecting a de-escalation of regulatory pressure on the tech sector, the U.S. Office of Management and Budget issued a memorandum allowing Executive Branch employees to use TikTok on government devices. This decision follows a Department of Justice (DOJ) statement confirming that the U.S. version of the app no longer falls under prohibited categories due to newly implemented cybersecurity measures. This marks a significant shift from the 2022 policies that imposed a total ban over national security concerns.

The new security framework relies on a U.S. Data Security Joint Venture, in which American investors including Oracle, MGX, and Silver Lake hold a 45% stake. According to market data, Oracle (ORCL) shares closed at $153.23 on August 12, 2026. The company's role as a key investor and technical monitor has been pivotal in satisfying regulatory standards regarding data privacy and vulnerability detection.

Traders should monitor how individual federal agencies respond, as the ruling allows them the discretion to maintain independent bans if they choose. As of the August 12, 2026 close, ORCL was priced at $153.23, having traded between a day low of $147.89 and a high of $154.89. With no major tech-related catalysts in the upcoming economic calendar for the next seven days, market attention will likely remain on further regulatory developments.