ByteDance in Talks to Sell Moonton to Saudi Arabia’s Savvy Games Group
ByteDance, the parent company of TikTok, is reportedly negotiating the sale of Shanghai Moonton Technology Co. to Saudi Arabia's Savvy Games Group. The discussions align with ByteDance's broader strategy to divest its gaming assets, including Moonton, which it acquired for $4 billion in 2021. The MOVE signals a significant retreat from its ambitions in the video gaming sector.
Moonton's flagship title, Mobile Legends: Bang Bang (MLBB), has emerged as a dominant force in esports, accounting for over 25% of viewership at the recent Esports World Cup. The game's success underscores its global appeal, with plans to feature again in the 2026 tournament. Meanwhile, ByteDance continues to pivot toward e-commerce as its primary growth driver.