In a deal highlighting the increasing valuation of social media stars, TikTok sensation Khaby Lame has reportedly sold a notable stake in his company for $975 million to Rich Sparkle Holdings Limited.The transaction,formalized on January 9,2026,centers around Step Distinctive Limited,a live streaming e-commerce firm,and includes the groundbreaking growth of an AI “digital twin” of Lame for global marketing efforts [[1]]. SEC filings reveal the agreement as a “material definitive agreement” with potential control changes, underscoring the growing intersection of social influence and commerce.
TikTok star Khaby Lame has reportedly sold a stake in his company for $975 million, according to filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The deal, documented in a Form 6-K filing, involves Rich Sparkle Holdings Limited’s acquisition of 100% of Step Distinctive Limited, a company focused on live streaming e-commerce.
The transaction, signed on January 9, 2026, reveals that Serigne Khabane Lame, known globally as Khaby Lame, directly and indirectly through Dominant Action Limited, held a 49% ownership in the company that was sold. Other selling entities include Pink13 Group Inc. and Develop Master Limited.
Deal Value
Rich Sparkle Holdings will acquire the stake through the issuance of 75 million new ordinary shares to the sellers, representing a total consideration of $975 million. A key condition of the agreement stipulated that the target company’s valuation had to exceed $900 million, a threshold confirmed following due diligence.
The agreement is classified as a “material definitive agreement” and could result in a change of control for the listed company. This transaction underscores the growing financial significance of social media influencers and their associated businesses.
Khaby Lame’s AI Digital Twin
A particularly innovative aspect of the deal centers around the use of artificial intelligence. Khaby Lame has granted permission for the creation of an AI Digital Twin using his biometric data. This “digital twin” will be able to replicate his expressions, movements, and voice, enabling the continuous production of digital content.
According to SEC filings, this technology will facilitate the creation of multilingual content, simultaneous versions of the same formats, and unlimited live streaming commerce, regardless of time zone. The goal is to support a 24/7 global digital commerce model.
For the next three years, Anhui Xiaoheiyang Network Technology Company Limited, a specialist in the field, will manage the operational aspects of the live streaming e-commerce business. The partner will oversee the entire supply chain, from content creation to logistics and shipping, with a focus on the U.S., Middle East, and Southeast Asia.
Khaby Lame’s Continued Role
Despite selling a portion of his stake, Khaby Lame will remain actively involved in the business. Company documents indicate his continued presence is considered crucial for commercial development and monetizing the digital ecosystem built around his brand. He will also assume a controlling shareholder position within the new structure, transitioning from influencer to an industrial asset of a publicly traded group.
Estimates suggest the commercial ecosystem linked to Khaby Lame’s content could generate annual sales exceeding $4 billion. The acquiring company stated that the final completion of the transaction will be announced to the market once all contractual conditions are met.
