Europe’s Sovereign Tech Push Moves Capital to Rockets, Drones and War

Apple is intensifying its opposition to Europe's Digital Markets Act (DMA), which aims to regulate big tech companies and promote fair competition. This move is significant as it highlights the ongoing tension between tech giants and regulatory bodies, raising questions about the future of digital innovation and consumer choice in Europe.

OnlyFans has made headlines by announcing that it has paid out an impressive $25 billion to its creators since its inception in 2016. CEO Keily Blair highlighted this achievement during a recent event at Bloomberg Tech in London, emphasizing the platform's commitment to generating wealth for its users rather than merely focusing on profits. This milestone not only showcases the platform's growth but also its role in empowering content creators, making it a significant player in the digital economy.

Helsing's co-CEO, Reil, has raised alarms about a potential bubble in Europe's defense technology sector, warning that many investors could face significant financial losses. This is crucial as it highlights the volatility in a market that has seen rapid growth, urging stakeholders to reassess their investments and strategies in a landscape that may not be as stable as it seems.

Lifeline Ventures has successfully raised €400 million, marking a significant milestone as it establishes Finland's largest fund dedicated to investing in European technology startups. This move is crucial as it not only strengthens the startup ecosystem in Finland but also highlights Lifeline's impressive history of spotting potential unicorns, which could lead to substantial economic growth and innovation in the region.

Europe is striving to establish its own sovereign AI, but there's significant debate over what that actually entails. This discussion is crucial as it shapes the continent's technological future and its stance in the global AI landscape.

A recent report reveals that while 30% of large listed companies in Europe have committed to net-zero emissions, only about 5% are actually on track to achieve these goals. This discrepancy highlights a significant gap between corporate promises and actionable results, raising concerns about the sincerity of these pledges. As climate change becomes an increasingly pressing issue, the failure to meet net-zero targets could have serious implications for both the environment and the economy, making it clear that businesses must prioritize sustainability over mere political rhetoric.

At the recent 2025 OpenInfra Summit Europe, the focus shifted towards a significant initiative aimed at reducing reliance on US tech giants by embracing open source solutions. This movement is gaining momentum as European leaders recognize the importance of fostering local innovation and ensuring data sovereignty. By prioritizing open source technologies, Europe aims to create a more competitive and secure digital landscape, which could reshape the tech industry and empower local developers.

Waymo's driverless taxis are set to hit the streets of London in 2026, marking a significant step forward in autonomous transportation. This development is exciting as it promises to revolutionize how we think about travel, potentially making rides more efficient and accessible. As cities adapt to new technologies, the introduction of these taxis could lead to a safer and more convenient way to get around, changing the landscape of urban mobility.

In a bold move, an individual has purchased $250,000 worth of physical nickels, highlighting a growing interest in tangible assets amidst economic uncertainty. This decision reflects a shift in investment strategies as people seek to safeguard their wealth against inflation and market volatility. The purchase not only showcases the value of physical currency but also sparks discussions about the future of money and investment trends.

SoftBank Group Corp. is making headlines as it plans to sell approximately $2 billion in bonds, marking its second foray into the overseas bond market this year. This move is part of a broader strategy to raise funds for its ambitious investments in artificial intelligence, particularly through its partnership with OpenAI. This is significant as it highlights the growing confidence in AI technologies and SoftBank's commitment to being at the forefront of this transformative sector.

Innorna Co., a Chinese company specializing in messenger RNA drugs and backed by CDH Investments, is gearing up for an initial public offering in Hong Kong. This move is significant as it highlights the growing interest and investment in innovative biotech solutions, particularly in the mRNA sector, which has gained prominence due to its role in vaccine development. An IPO could provide Innorna with the capital needed to expand its research and development efforts, potentially leading to breakthroughs in drug therapies.

The Samsung Galaxy XR is making waves in the tech world by boasting compatibility with nearly all Android apps, which is a significant advantage for users. This means that whether you're into gaming, productivity, or social media, you can enjoy a seamless experience on this device. This compatibility not only enhances user satisfaction but also positions the Galaxy XR as a versatile option in a competitive smartphone market.

OpenBSD 7.8 has been officially released, showcasing the community's commitment to security and innovation in open-source software. This release includes numerous enhancements and bug fixes that improve system performance and security features, making it a significant update for users and developers alike. The ongoing development of OpenBSD reflects the importance of robust security measures in today's digital landscape.

Samsung has unveiled the Galaxy XR, a new smart glasses device that offers a more open and affordable alternative to Apple's Vision Pro, priced at half the cost. This innovation is significant as it aims to democratize access to advanced augmented reality technology, making it more accessible to a broader audience. With features designed to enhance user experience and functionality, the Galaxy XR could reshape how we interact with digital content in our daily lives.