Friday: Intel back in the red, sale of TikTok USA likely approved

Intel, a titan in the semiconductor industry, has reported a return to losses, a significant development impacting the European and global tech landscape. This financial setback for a key player in chip manufacturing raises questions about its competitive position and future investment in critical digital infrastructure. The company's performance is a closely watched indicator for the health of the hardware sector underpinning much of the digital economy. The news coincides with potential shifts in the digital platform market, as reports suggest the sale of TikTok's U.S. operations may be approved. This development could lead to a significant restructuring of the social media giant's global presence and data handling practices. Such a move would have direct implications for user data, content moderation policies, and the broader digital advertising ecosystem. The semiconductor sector's challenges, coupled with potential platform reconfigurations, underscore the ongoing efforts in Europe to bolster digital sovereignty and reduce reliance on external tech giants. As the continent navigates these complex geopolitical and economic currents, the focus remains on fostering domestic innovation and securing supply chains for vital digital technologies. The implications for data protection and the implementation of regulations like the Digital Services Act and Digital Markets Act are also considerable.