How Rich is the CEO of TikTok, Shou Zi Chew?
Shou Zi Chew has rapidly become one of the most influential and financially successful tech executives in recent years. As the CEO of TikTok, his net worth is estimated to be around $200 million as of 2025. While this is a staggering figure, it reflects his deep experience in the technology sector and his role in leading one of the most popular social media platforms worldwide.
TikTok, which boasts over 1 billion active users, has grown into a global phenomenon, with its popularity showing no signs of slowing down. Under Chew’s leadership, the platform has managed to expand its reach and solidify its place in the social media ecosystem, competing against giants like Facebook and Instagram. However, Chew’s wealth doesn’t just stem from TikTok’s success—it is also the result of his previous career moves and investments, including his time at Xiaomi and DST Global.
TikTok’s financial model, largely reliant on advertising and content creation, has made it one of the most lucrative platforms on the market. Chew’s strategies for expanding TikTok’s presence in markets outside of China, including the U.S. and Europe, have significantly contributed to his substantial financial position. Despite challenges, particularly related to data privacy concerns and scrutiny over Chinese influence, TikTok continues to thrive, solidifying Chew’s reputation as a highly capable and wealthy leader in the tech world.
Who is TikTok CEO’s Wife, Vivian Kao?
Vivian Kao plays an equally impressive role in the professional world as the wife of Shou Zi Chew. A seasoned businesswoman, investor, and financial expert, Kao’s career has seen her make significant contributions in various sectors, including fintech, real estate, and philanthropy. The couple’s relationship began while they were both studying at Harvard Business School in 2008. They have since been together for over 16 years, demonstrating a strong and lasting partnership.
Kao's academic credentials are just as impressive as her professional achievements. She graduated from Wellesley College with a degree in Economics and Chinese Studies, and like Chew, she earned an MBA from Harvard Business School. After her studies, Kao embarked on a career that saw her in key leadership positions. She served as Chief Growth Officer at WeLab, an innovative Asian fintech company, and later became the General Manager of Chope, a prominent real-time restaurant reservation platform. Her business acumen and expertise in growth strategy have been critical in the companies she’s worked for.
Today, Kao is the CEO of Tamarind Global, an investment management firm that oversees philanthropic efforts and investments for affluent Singaporean families. She is also a non-executive director of Sun Hung Kai & Co. Limited, a well-known alternative investment firm based in Hong Kong. Kao’s influence extends to her philanthropic work, and she has demonstrated a deep commitment to education and social causes, holding a position on the Board of Trustees at Wellesley College since 2022.
Despite her success, Kao is known to maintain a low profile, keeping her personal life and professional achievements largely out of the public eye. However, her contributions to the business world are impressive and have undoubtedly contributed to the Chew family's overall wealth and success.
What Was Shou Zi Chew Doing Before Being TikTok CEO?
Before ascending to the top position at TikTok, Shou Zi Chew had a distinguished career in the worlds of finance, investment, and tech. His path to TikTok was paved with strategic roles at leading global companies, where he demonstrated exceptional skills in business growth, strategy, and financial management.
Chew's career began with an internship at Facebook during his first year at Harvard Business School. After completing his MBA, he worked in investment banking at Goldman Sachs, which provided him with a strong foundation in financial analysis and corporate strategy. He then transitioned to DST Global, a prominent investment firm, where he was involved in high-profile investments in major tech companies, including ByteDance, the parent company of TikTok. His time at DST Global gave him deep insights into the technology space, as well as access to some of the most lucrative investment opportunities of the decade.
Chew’s next major career move took him to Xiaomi, one of China’s leading technology firms, where he served as Chief Financial Officer (CFO). At Xiaomi, he was instrumental in the company’s global expansion and its successful IPO in 2018. Chew played a pivotal role in guiding Xiaomi through the financial complexities of becoming a publicly traded company, helping the company to broaden its market share and increase its international visibility.
His work at Xiaomi caught the attention of ByteDance, which ultimately led to Chew’s appointment as CFO of the company in 2021. A few months later, he was named CEO of TikTok, where he stepped into a role fraught with high expectations and regulatory challenges.
Chew’s extensive experience in both finance and technology has been crucial in helping TikTok navigate international markets, including addressing concerns over data privacy and security, particularly in the U.S. His leadership has been vital in maintaining TikTok’s reputation while also positioning it for further expansion.
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Shou Zi Chew’s Role at TikTok
As CEO of TikTok, Chew is responsible for overseeing the platform’s operations, ensuring its growth, and addressing regulatory issues that have arisen due to concerns over user data and privacy. He has spearheaded several initiatives to improve the platform’s transparency and compliance with local laws. For instance, he has introduced measures to store U.S. user data on American soil to alleviate concerns about the Chinese government’s access to such information.
Chew is also focused on increasing TikTok’s monetisation capabilities by enhancing its advertising offerings and collaborating with brands to generate more revenue from creators and advertisers. Under his leadership, TikTok has expanded its e-commerce features, allowing users to purchase items directly through the app, a move that significantly bolsters the platform’s revenue potential.
Despite these efforts, Chew faces ongoing challenges, including the platform’s relationship with Chinese authorities, regulatory scrutiny in several countries, and competition from other social media giants. However, Chew’s leadership style—focused on growth, transparency, and user safety—has positioned TikTok as a key player in the global social media landscape.
Conclusion
Shou Zi Chew’s journey from investment banking to CEO of TikTok showcases his exceptional leadership and deep expertise in the tech and finance sectors. His net worth of $200 million is a reflection of his success in navigating the complex landscape of global tech companies. Paired with the equally impressive career of his wife, Vivian Kao, Chew's wealth and influence extend far beyond his position at TikTok. As the CEO of one of the most influential social media platforms in the world, Chew's role will continue to be pivotal in shaping TikTok's future amid ongoing regulatory challenges and opportunities for growth.
