Germany Moves Toward Social Media Limits for Children

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German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has voiced support for stricter controls on children’s access to social media, citing increasing concern over misinformation and digital manipulation.

Speaking ahead of the Christian Union party conference, Merz pointed to the risks posed by artificial content such as fabricated news and manipulated media. He noted that young teenagers now spend an average of over five hours online daily, raising questions about the broader societal impact.

A proposal set to be discussed includes restricting access to platforms like TikTok and Instagram for users under the age of 16. Similar discussions are underway across Europe, with countries such as Spain, France and Greece exploring potential limitations.

Merz acknowledged that his perspective had evolved, highlighting the underestimated influence of algorithms and targeted online messaging. He dismissed the idea of gradual exposure to social media as a sufficient safeguard, emphasizing the need for structural protections.

While federal support appears to be growing, implementing nationwide restrictions may require coordination between Germany’s states due to the decentralized nature of media regulation.

A government-appointed commission examining online safety for young people is expected to present its findings later this year.

eBay Acquires Depop to Strengthen Resale Fashion

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eBay has forecast stronger-than-expected first-quarter revenue while announcing the acquisition of fashion resale platform Depop from Etsy for approximately $1.2 billion. The move aims to expand eBay’s position in the fast-growing pre-owned fashion segment.

The company expects quarterly revenue between $3 billion and $3.05 billion, surpassing analyst projections of $2.80 billion. This outlook reflects continued growth driven by its focus on recommerce, which emphasizes refurbished, authenticated and second-hand products.

Depop is seen as a strategic addition, particularly due to its popularity among younger consumers who prioritize sustainability and circular consumption. The platform has gained traction in the resale fashion market by promoting the reuse of clothing and accessories.

According to CEO Jamie Iannone, the acquisition aligns with shifting consumer preferences toward environmentally conscious shopping habits. The deal is expected to close in the second quarter and could contribute up to two percentage points to eBay’s gross merchandise volume growth by 2026.

For the first quarter, eBay anticipates total merchandise sales between $21.5 billion and $21.9 billion, exceeding market expectations. The company previously reported $2.97 billion in fourth-quarter revenue, alongside a 10 percent increase in merchandise volume.

Microsoft Targets $50B AI Investment in Global South

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Microsoft announced plans to invest up to $50 billion by the end of the decade to expand artificial intelligence infrastructure across developing and emerging economies, commonly referred to as the Global South.

The commitment was revealed during the AI summit held in New Delhi, where technology leaders and policymakers gathered to discuss the future of digital transformation in lower-income regions.

The Global South includes nations primarily located in the southern hemisphere that are still building their technological and economic capacity. Microsoft’s initiative aims to accelerate AI adoption in these regions by improving infrastructure and access to advanced digital tools.

India remains a central focus of this strategy. Last year, Microsoft unveiled $17.5 billion in AI-related investments in the country, reinforcing its position as a key growth market with rapidly expanding digital demand.

The broader initiative reflects increasing efforts by major technology companies to extend AI capabilities beyond traditional technology hubs, enabling wider participation in the global digital economy.