The world’s technology revolution is leaving Europe behind.
Europe lacks any homegrown alternatives to the likes of Google, Amazon or Meta. Apple’s market value is bigger than the entire German stock market. The continent’s inability to create more big technology firms is seen as one of its biggest challenges and is a major reason why its economies are stagnating. The issue is even more urgent with the prospect of higher tariffs threatening to further curb economic growth.
Investors and entrepreneurs say obstacles to tech growth are deeply entrenched: a timid and risk-averse business culture, strict labor laws, suffocating regulations, a smaller pool of venture capital and lackluster economic and demographic growth.
"The Tech Industry Is Huge—and Europe’s Share of It Is Very Small" via @WSJ https://t.co/X2pM7psIZp
— Jon Hartley (@Jon_Hartley_) May 20, 2025