Big Tech approaches Trump as global regulation intensifies.

The relationship between large tech companies, known as 'Big Tech,' and former President Donald Trump appears to be undergoing a significant shift in the lead-up to his inauguration, scheduled for January 20. After a year marked by intense regulatory scrutiny in both the United States and Europe, several of these companies have begun to reach out to Trump, even sponsoring his inauguration event with donations exceeding one million dollars. This move could indicate a strategic shift in these companies' stance toward politics, despite Trump still expressing his intention to exert stricter control over the tech sector. One of the most notable moments reflecting this change recently occurred when Trump and the CEO of Softbank, a Japanese investment giant, announced an agreement aimed at injecting $100 billion into the U.S. economy during Trump's presidency. This investment would also translate into the creation of 100,000 jobs, many of which would be related to advancements in artificial intelligence (AI). Such a commitment from major tech companies suggests a renewed interest in collaborating with the incoming administration, something that could have significant repercussions for sector regulation. Artificial intelligence has been a focal point for both tech companies and regulators. While significant efforts have been made to assess and regulate the impact of AI, most regulatory attention has thus far been focused on social media, particularly concerning its effects on minors and issues related to monopolies. Recently, the UN General Assembly approved a resolution for international regulation of AI, a symbolic gesture reflecting the growing global concern over the issue, although much work remains to be done in terms of effective implementation. In the United States, the Department of Justice and the Federal Trade Commission have intensified their scrutiny of Big Tech, particularly against companies like Alphabet, Apple, Microsoft, and Amazon. This year, one of the major achievements was a court ruling that requires Alphabet to separate the management of its Android operating system, Chrome browser, and Google Play app store. This decision marks a milestone in antitrust efforts, although appeals are expected that could prolong the process for years. Meanwhile, Apple has faced monopoly accusations in the smartphone market, while Meta is embroiled in a lawsuit over the acquisition of emerging rivals. Amazon, on the other hand, is dealing with its own legal battles regarding the policies it applies to its sellers and suppliers. These regulatory actions have begun to bear fruit, as evidenced by Instagram's recent decision to impose stricter controls on teenage accounts, a move that, while a step in the right direction, lacks coherent national regulation in the United States. With Trump's arrival, expectations regarding who will lead the Department of Justice are up in the air. Trump has promised significant changes and has offered positions to his allies, suggesting a potentially more friendly approach toward Big Tech. At the same time, the appointment of Andrew Ferguson to the FTC, described by Trump as "pro-innovation," could indicate an intention to facilitate sector growth rather than subject it to stringent control. In Europe, the situation is also evolving. Teresa Ribera, who will take over the antitrust oversight role, is in a critical position to define how Big Tech will be regulated on the continent. Her predecessor, Margrethe Vestager, was known for her aggressive approach to monopolistic practices, highlighting the penalties imposed on Google and other tech companies for tax evasion. Vestager was dubbed the 'tax lady' by Trump, underscoring the existing tension between tech companies and European regulators. The new European legislation, known as the Digital Markets Act (DMA), also promises to change the landscape. This regulation aims to ensure that digital platforms operate fairly, establishing stricter requirements for those acting as "gatekeepers." The implementation of these regulations could significantly impact how Big Tech conducts its business in Europe, forcing them to change their practices and offer greater protections to users. In summary, the dynamic between large tech companies and politics is changing as Big Tech approaches Trump at a crucial moment. As new regulations loom in both the United States and Europe, companies find themselves at a crossroads: they must balance their desire to grow and expand with the pressure from governments seeking to limit their power. The interaction between these actors will be key in defining the future of the tech sector in the coming years.