Von der Leyen - Trump - Photo © European Union 2025

When the European Union and the United States announced a new trade framework agreement in August 2025, relief spread across Brussels. After years of transatlantic frictions and fears of renewed tariff wars, a negotiated settlement looked like a sign of stability. Yet, beyond the celebratory language, the details reveal an uncomfortable truth: Europe is tying its technological future ever more tightly to Washington’s interests, at the expense of its own ambitions for sovereignty.

Business man with phone - Photo by Pixabay

In today’s digital-first economy, staying connected is essential. For businesses across Europe, communication is the backbone of operations, whether that means closing deals over video calls, managing supply chains through apps, or enabling staff to work remotely.

Mortgage advice - Photo by RDNE Stock project on Pexels

The UK mortgage market has always been active, but the pace of change in recent years has placed even more pressure on advisers. Shifting interest rates, tighter affordability rules, and increasingly complex client circumstances have made it more challenging to manage day-to-day advice while keeping up with regulation and client expectations