Europe’s share of global tech R&D has collapsed from 23% in 2005 to just 8% today, while the US has climbed to 62% and China has risen from near zero to 15%. South Korea now outspends Germany, France, the UK, and Italy combined in tech R&D.

Serious question, if Europe doesn’t have leading AI models how can it maintain its high wages and standard of living? Why should the US or Chinese AI companies share their latest models with Europe, instead of using them at home first to design and deploy much more competitive products and services, making European products less competitive or even obsolete? Both US and Chinese administrations are very keen to promote and boost national interest and industries. They have been doing that even before AI started to go thru the roof, why should they suddenly change their strategy, instead of boosting it using their AI dominance? Are there any European products and services safe from that trend?

— Michael A. Arouet (@MichaelAArouet) October 29, 2026