The Sound of Economics AI, data and Europe’s quest to simplify
Jan 7, 2026
Join Mario Mariniello, a senior digital policy researcher at Bruegel, and Bertin Martens, an economist specializing in digital markets, as they navigate the complexities of EU tech regulations. They discuss the ambitious digital omnibus and its potential to streamline governance while raising concerns over data protection. The conversation dives into the challenges of data fragmentation, the need for better access to non-rival data, and the geopolitical race with the US and China. They emphasize the importance of significant long-term strategies for Europe's tech future.
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Simplification Masks Deregulation
- The Commission's "digital omnibus" mixes true simplifications with deregulatory moves that loosen data protections for AI firms.
- Mario Mariniello warns this narrows GDPR safeguards and increases legal uncertainty for companies and citizens.
Data Act Creates New Ambiguities
- The Data Act consolidates fragmented rules but leaves unclear categories like "product data" and grants manufacturers control over data transfers.
- Bertin Martens argues this creates new fragmentation and can force consumers to pay to move their own device data.
Use Data Spaces And Sandboxes
- Open sectoral data pools like the European Health Data Space to enable research and AI training where useful.
- Expand EU-run AI sandboxes so developers can experiment under supervision and speed innovation safely.