German Government Considers Leaving X Over Algorithm Concerns, Spokesperson Reveals

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The German government is actively evaluating the possibility of abandoning its presence on X, formerly known as Twitter, citing concerns over the platform’s algorithms. A government spokesperson confirmed on Friday that this issue is under continuous review, especially following a live broadcast on the platform featuring Elon Musk and Alice Weidel, the leader of the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party.

The spokesperson explained that X and other social media platforms have algorithms that promote content in ways that are not conducive to “calm, objective, and balanced discourse,” but instead tend to encourage agitation and polarization. Although the government has not made a final decision, it has chosen to remain on the platform for the time being due to its ability to reach a broad audience.

Musk’s growing support for far-right and anti-establishment parties, particularly in the lead-up to Germany’s February 23 election, has sparked controversy. German institutions, including unions and universities, have already distanced themselves from X in protest. During a live session on Thursday, Musk reiterated his endorsement of the AfD, a far-right party that is considered extremist by German security services, which has led to increasing tensions in Berlin.

However, the government spokesperson clarified that concerns over the platform are not directly related to Musk’s political involvement in Germany. The spokesperson emphasized that it is up to the European Commission in Brussels to determine whether X is complying with EU laws, especially during election periods.

 

Italy Seeks Full Data Control in Potential Starlink Deal, Musk Adviser States

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Italy is considering a deal with Elon Musk’s Starlink for secure satellite communications, with a strong emphasis on maintaining full control over its data. The potential five-year agreement, valued at 1.5 billion euros ($1.6 billion), would provide encrypted communications for Italy’s government, diplomats, and defense personnel in sensitive and high-risk areas.

The move has sparked criticism from opposition parties, who question whether Italy should rely on a company owned by U.S. billionaire Elon Musk for handling such critical communications. Starlink, a subsidiary of Musk’s SpaceX aerospace business, operates 6,700 active satellites in low-Earth orbit, positioning it as a leading player in satellite telecommunications.

Andrea Stroppa, an adviser for Musk’s aerospace ventures, reassured the public during an interview with Italian state broadcaster RAI, stating that Italian institutions would retain full control over their data. He emphasized that while the technology would be provided by a U.S.-owned company, Italy’s national interests would be safeguarded. The discussions began before Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni assumed office in October 2022.

Meloni, who has a well-documented positive relationship with Musk, dismissed concerns raised by opposition leaders, assuring that the government’s evaluation of the project would remain impartial.

 

TSMC’s Q4 Revenue Exceeds Expectations, Boosted by AI Demand

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Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. (TSMC), the world’s largest contract chipmaker, reported a strong performance in the fourth quarter of 2024, with revenue significantly surpassing market forecasts, driven by robust demand for artificial intelligence (AI) products. TSMC’s customers, including major tech firms like Apple and Nvidia, have been key players in the AI revolution, which has helped offset the slowdown in chip demand for consumer electronics like tablets following the pandemic.

For the October-December period, TSMC posted revenue of T$868.42 billion ($26.36 billion), a 34.4% year-on-year increase, exceeding the expected T$853.57 billion ($25.90 billion) according to analysts surveyed by LSEG SmartEstimate. This marks a significant jump from the $19.62 billion revenue recorded during the same period in 2023.

TSMC had previously forecasted fourth-quarter revenue to fall between $26.1 billion and $26.9 billion, which it successfully met within its guidance range. For December alone, the company reported a 57.8% year-on-year revenue increase, reaching T$278.16 billion.

This positive performance reflects the growing demand for semiconductors used in AI applications, with other Taiwanese firms, such as Foxconn, also reporting strong earnings in the fourth quarter due to the AI boom. TSMC is scheduled to announce its full fourth-quarter earnings on January 16, where it will provide an updated outlook for the current quarter and the full year.

The company’s stock rose 81% in 2024, far outpacing the broader market’s 28.5% gain, though it closed flat on Friday ahead of the revenue release.