The TikTok Infodemic and Its Impact on Political Discourse in the Forthcoming 2024 Elections

The virality of online content has often led to the rapid dissemination of both information and misinformation—a dichotomy that was clearly demonstrated when Osama Bin Laden's 'Letter to America' resurfaced on TikTok in 2002, becoming a viral sensation. The event highlighted TikTok's ongoing battle with misinformation, a problem that is ever more concerning as we approach what many are calling the first major 'TikTok election' in 2024. This election is predicted to significantly shape the way political news is consumed, especially among younger demographics that are more heavily engaged on platforms like TikTok.

The Role of AI in News Consumption

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is playing a duel role in this new information landscape. On one hand, AI has the potential to manipulate news content through deepfakes and other deceptive methods that can exacerbate the spread of misinformation. On the other hand, AI is employed to help moderate and filter content, striving to keep the information ecosystem healthy and truthful. The balance of these functions of AI will be critical in managing the narrative around the upcoming elections and monitoring the veracity of the content that is being shared.

Investing in the Age of TikTok Politics

For investors, understanding the impact of social media on elections is crucial. Companies and startups that offer solutions for content moderation, as well as those that inherently shape social media experiences, could see fluctuations in their relevance and value. Investors should monitor indicators and consider the broader implications of social media's influence on both public opinion and the future of content consumption. As political news consumption moves increasingly to platforms like TikTok, this could have ripple effects across various sectors, potentially impacting stocks in the tech and media space, among others.

Viral, AI, Election