European Regulators Turn Up Heat on Big Tech Ahead of Tougher DMA Enforcement
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Europe’s technology giants are bracing for a more aggressive regulatory environment in 2026.
The European Commission has signaled it intends to step up enforcement of the Digital Markets Act (DMA), with several ongoing investigations into Apple, Google, and Meta expected to reach critical stages early next year.
Sources familiar with the matter say commissioners are preparing significant fines and potential structural remedies if companies are found non-compliant with gatekeeper obligations.
Apple’s App Store policies and Google’s dominance in search and advertising remain particular points of contention. Meta’s data practices across WhatsApp, Instagram, and Facebook are also under review.
“The DMA is not just about fines — it’s about changing behavior,” said one senior EU official speaking on background.
Shares of U.S. tech companies with heavy European exposure dipped slightly on Friday following reports of accelerated timelines. Alphabet and Meta both closed down around 1%.
Industry lobbyists argue that overly strict enforcement could harm innovation and consumer choice. “Europe risks becoming a regulatory museum while the rest of the world moves forward,” warned one trade association representative.
But consumer advocates and smaller competitors welcome the tougher stance. “Finally, we’re seeing real teeth behind these rules,” said Max von Thun at the Open Markets Institute.
The stakes are high: fines can reach up to 10% of global annual turnover, with repeat offenses triggering even steeper penalties.
As companies prepare their defenses, investors are weighing the potential impact on profitability versus the long-term benefits of clearer operating rules.
