TikTok, Casino Investors, and the Risk of Gambling Content Everywhere

The situation around TikTok is becoming more and more alarming, especially for those who are worried about the influence of platforms on young people. According to the WSJ, Steve Wynn, the legendary billionaire and founder of the elite casino chain Wynn Resorts, may join the possible purchase of TikTok.

What is important is that Wynn's participation in this process is not accidental. AppLovin is betting on the trust of the authorities, because now there is a struggle to preserve TikTok in the United States: if an American company does not buy it by April 5, the platform will simply be blocked in the country.

But here's the crux of the alarm: more and more often, TikTok is being drawn to TikTok by those who are somehow connected to the gambling and entertainment industry on the edge. We've already seen how Stake — an online casino with a dubious reputation — tried to sneak into the market by promoting streamers through its Kick platform, which quickly turned into a haven for slots, betting, and casino streams.

Now TikTok is on the horizon and the same smell of money from the gambling industry. And if even such a giant as TikTok is under the control of people from the casino business, do not be surprised if in a couple of years the recommendations of teenagers will not include dancing and challenges, but slot streams, quick wins, "good luck from the first spin" and a bunch of "repeat and win" enticements.

The problem is that TikTok is not just a social network, it is a showcase for the future generation. And if this showcase is captured by gambling content, beautifully packaged and as viral as possible, then we are really moving towards a future where casinos will not be in Vegas, but on everyone's screen.