EuroTech Podcast Weekly Wrap-Up returns with the key European tech stories from 1–10 January 2026. We cover a record start for European markets, Accenture’s acquisition of London AI firm Faculty, major funding momentum with Swap’s $100M Series C and Payhawk’s reported new raise talks, plus climate-tech consolidation as Diginex acquires Plan A. We also look at strong results from AI unicorn Quantexa and Europe’s standout showing at CES 2026, including cutting-edge deeptech and new AI-driven vehicles from BMW and Mercedes-Benz.

In the second half, we launch Part 1 of a two-episode series on European alternatives to US consumer apps. Taking a pragmatic approach, we explore realistic substitutes across messaging, social, browsers, search, email, cloud storage, maps, and mobility—highlighting where switching is easy, where it’s hard, and what digital sovereignty really means for European consumers.

Music from #Uppbeat
https://uppbeat.io/t/tatami/ride-and-prejudice

As 2025 closed, Europe is racing toward tech sovereignty. We cover the shift from US military dependency to a $1.5B European defence tech surge, plus the week’s biggest headlines in fintech and AI.

Top Takeaways:

• Defense Revolution: How startups like Quantum-Systems & Helsing are redefining the modern battlefield.
• Fintech Milestones: Monzo lands a European banking license; N26 shifts leadership.
• The No-Code Unicorn: Lovable hits a $6.6B valuation in just 12 months.
• Quantum Chips: QuantumDiamonds’ new €150M Munich facility.

Listen for: A deep dive into the 5 technologies (Drones, Jets, Hypersonics, AI, and Space) set to define European security in 2026.

Music from #Uppbeat
https://uppbeat.io/t/tatami/ride-and-prejudice

As the U.S. grew more unpredictable, Europe began to step up in 2025 — with bold AI breakthroughs, landmark fintech IPOs, momentum in climate tech, and sweeping digital regulation. This year-in-review wraps it all in sharp, simple insight for founders, investors, and anyone watching Europe’s tech awakening.

Music from #Uppbeat
https://uppbeat.io/t/tatami/ride-and-prejudice