Summary

The call focused on US and EU policy shifts regarding AI, antitrust, and competition, particularly after DeepSeek's R1 model launch. Robert Kaminsky (Capital Alpha Partners) noted that despite assumptions, a second Trump administration would not abandon antitrust enforcement. Major cases like Google and Meta will continue, but speculative cases, such as the FTC’s complaint against Amazon for low prices, are unlikely to proceed. AI monopolies may receive leniency if their dominance supports national security. Kaminsky emphasised that AI policy in the US is likely to be driven by the executive branch rather than Congress, which remains gridlocked. Kaminsky also addressed DeepSeek’s rise, suggesting that while its market dominance has raised regulatory concerns, the administration's priority will likely shift toward encouraging domestic AI growth rather than halting foreign competitors. Dan Nechita (Transatlantic Policy Network) highlighted a major shift in EU policy under Ursula von der Leyen, accentuating large-scale investment in defence and technology, including an €800 billion initiative to drive competitiveness. The Commission is also reducing regulatory red tape to foster innovation. On AI copyright, the EU has opted for transparency over strict regulation, requiring AI companies to disclose training data sources without imposing harsh penalties. Nechita warned that companies clinging to outdated views of heavy EU regulation risk missing major growth opportunities. Both speakers agreed that AI policy will shape future economic and geopolitical influence, with the US favouring executive-level action and Europe prioritising large-scale investment and innovation.

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