Outsized seed rounds, neobanks and booming M&A? Well hello, 2023

EU Regulations

The impact of EU regulations on tech companies is becoming increasingly evident. Natasha Mascarenhas and Rebecca Bellan discuss how the EU's scrutiny of major deals, like Adobe's acquisition of Figma, reflects a more vigilant regulatory environment. Mary Azevedo notes the unexpected nature of these antitrust concerns, emphasizing the significant implications if such deals fall apart due to regulatory hurdles 1.

Ultimately, it's a flex that they're like, we're not even going to formally set it off. We're just going to tell you that we were looking at you. So initial review to come, it sounds like.

--- Natasha Mascarenhas

This heightened attention from the EU could reshape how tech companies approach mergers and acquisitions in the region.

   

Crowdfunding

US-based crowdfunding platforms are expanding into the EU, bringing new opportunities and challenges. Natasha Mascarenhas explains that recent legislation has simplified the process, allowing platforms like WeFunder to operate across multiple EU countries without negotiating with each one individually 2. This move is expected to enhance the quality of the crowdfunding space in Europe.

The EU pays attention to things more than we do, which actually fits well into the last news item for today, which is WeFunder, which helps companies raise money through equity, crowdfunding rounds and other sorts of finance, has officially expanded to the EU.

--- Natasha Mascarenhas

Rebecca Bellan adds that the quality of deal flow on these platforms is improving, with more reputable companies participating 3. This trend could make crowdfunding a more viable option for startups seeking funding in the EU.