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The Trump administration reportedly requested a "low billions" payment from a coalition of U.S. investors acquiring TikTok's U.S. operations, which the group agreed to. This move is part of a broader pattern where the White House allegedly seeks payments or equity stakes from businesses, sparking concerns of "crony capitalism" and "rent-seeking" behavior that experts believe undermines market principles and the U.S. economy. While many executives privately express alarm, public dissent remains limited due to fear of retaliation.

Prepared by Lauren Mitchell and reviewed by editorial team.