Digital Advertising

The EU Commission has fined Google €2.95 billion for anti-competitive practices in its adtech business, alleging the company favored its own services, disadvantaging rivals and distorting the market. The EU requires Google to cease these practices within 60 days and address conflicts of interest. Google disputes the findings, plans to appeal, and argues its services benefit the market. This decision could force Google to restructure its adtech business in Europe and sets a precedent globally for antitrust actions against dominant tech platforms.

Alphabet (GOOG) shares rose after a favorable outcome in a landmark antitrust case. While the court affirmed Google’s illegal search monopoly, the judge rejected the DOJ’s proposal to divest Chrome. Google retains Chrome ownership and can compensate device manufacturers for preloading apps but is restricted from exclusive contracts contingent on exclusivity. Google’s agreement with Apple remains under scrutiny. Analysts believe the market’s positive reaction reflects relief that Google avoided a breakup. Focus now turns to remedies and their impact on competition.

Thumzup Media (TZUP) updated its public offering to include pre-funded warrants for common stock. The funds will target cryptocurrencies, mining equipment, working capital, and general corporate purposes. The offering’s completion is subject to market conditions. Thumzup’s platform pays users for sharing branded content and is developing an AI Lifestyle Agent Marketplace. The announcement contains forward-looking statements subject to risks. Investors should carefully review SEC filings and the prospectus before investing.

OpenAI’s AI browser challenges Google Chrome’s dominance, threatening its $200 billion ad empire which relies on user tracking. This Chromium-based browser centralizes interactions in a ChatGPT-like interface, using integrated AI agents to perform tasks autonomously. This could redirect search traffic and reduce Google’s ad revenue while granting OpenAI valuable user data. With technical expertise from former Chrome executives and growing industry adoption of agentic browsing, OpenAI’s move marks a critical shift in the tech landscape, testing Google’s 66% market share.