Friday: Lawsuits against Meta's data collection, Amazon's record investments in cloud

European courts are increasingly scrutinizing the data collection practices of major tech platforms, a trend exemplified by recent legal challenges against Meta. These rulings highlight a growing demand for greater transparency and user control over personal data, pushing digital giants to re-evaluate their data harvesting strategies within the EU. This judicial pressure is a significant development in the ongoing effort to enforce robust data protection standards across the digital landscape. In parallel, Amazon is significantly boosting its investments in cloud computing infrastructure within Europe, signaling a strong commitment to the region's digital backbone. These substantial capital injections are aimed at expanding its cloud services, potentially catering to a rising demand for secure and scalable digital solutions from European businesses and public sector entities. Such investments are crucial for supporting the continent's digital transformation initiatives and fostering innovation. The broader implications of these developments point towards a more regulated and localized European tech ecosystem. As regulations like the GDPR and the upcoming AI Act take hold, and with platforms facing stricter judicial oversight, the continent is steadily asserting its digital sovereignty. This environment encourages the development and adoption of European-centric digital solutions and services, fostering a more competitive and user-empowered digital economy.