September 8, 2025
Tech News
Alphabet’s Google has been hit with a staggering €2.95 billion ($3.45 billion) antitrust fine by the European Union for anti-competitive practices in its adtech business. This marks the fourth significant penalty against Google, sparking outrage from U.S. President Donald Trump, who deems the action “unfair” and threatens retaliation.
As trade tensions simmer between the U.S. and the EU, Trump has indicated that he will address the issue directly with European leaders and may initiate a Section 301 proceeding to contest these penalties. The European Commission acted upon a complaint from the European Publishers Council, highlighting Google’s self-preferencing practices that compromise competition against rivals and hurt online publishers.
In response to the fine, Google intends to appeal, claiming that the EU’s decision imposes unjustifiable demands that could hinder European businesses. The European Commission has warned that stronger actions, including potential divestitures, may follow if Google fails to adequately address its conflicting interests within a specified timeframe.
Meanwhile, Brazil’s Central Bank has announced robust measures to enhance the security of its financial system amid a rise in cyberattacks targeting financial institutions. New regulations will cap unauthorized digital cash transfers at 15,000 reais ($2,766.92) to deter attackers from executing large transactions, thereby shifting risk from authorized businesses to criminal organizations.
These new rules necessitate that no payment institution operate without prior approval from the Central Bank, with an expedited deadline for unauthorized firms to secure licenses pushed forward to May 2026. Central Bank governor Gabriel Galipolo emphasized these measures are aimed at combating organized crime, reinforcing the nation’s digital economy.
Tech Explained
Antitrust – Refers to laws and regulations designed to promote fair competition and prevent monopolistic practices. The EU’s fine on Google stems from its alleged abuse of market power in the adtech sector, undermining competition and harming consumers.
Adtech – Short for advertising technology, adtech encompasses the software and tools used for delivering, targeting, and analyzing online advertisements. Google’s adtech practices have raised concerns regarding anti-competitive behavior that affects both rival firms and advertisers.
Section 301 – A provision of the Trade Act of 1974 allowing the U.S. to take action against foreign trade practices deemed unfair. Trump’s assertion to invoke Section 301 aims to challenge the EU’s penalties against American companies like Google.
Cyberattack – An assault launched by individuals or organizations aimed at compromising the security of a computer system. Brazil’s Central Bank implemented new measures in reaction to rising cyberattacks on financial institutions, reinforcing the need for cybersecurity.
Pix – An instant payment system developed by Brazil’s Central Bank that allows real-time transactions. The new regulations aim to protect this system by limiting the amounts that unauthorized payment institutions can transfer, thereby enhancing overall security.
