How Musk-Trump will take on tech
However, the relationship between the tech industry and Trump 2.0 will be shaped by three factors: 1) deregulation 2) antitrust policy 3) possible confrontation with China. This dynamic could fundamentally reshape the tech sector domestically in the US and globally.
The cornerstone of Trump's tech policy is likely to be aggressive deregulation. In contrast to the Biden administration's oversight approach, particularly regarding AI and data privacy, Trump has consistently advocated for reducing regulatory barriers. This deregulatory stance could give tech companies greater freedom to innovate and expand their operations with less government oversight, an arena where Musk has skin in the game.
A notable shift might occur in antitrust policy. While Trump's first term saw investigations into major tech companies like Google, Facebook and Amazon over anti-competitive practices, a second term could take a more nuanced approach. This evolution appears linked to changing relationships with tech leaders, particularly with Musk by his side. Federal Trade Commission (FTC) could signal a balanced approach that maintains oversight while allowing more corporate flexibility.
The most significant impact on Big Tech would likely stem from an intensified rivalry with China. The 'America First' approach would probably lead to stricter measures against Chinese tech companies, building on previous actions against firms like Huawei and ZTE. This could accelerate the creation of two distinct global tech ecosystems: one led by the US,
