Labor pushes big tech reforms for fair competition

Apple Pay may open to banks; Google faces scrutiny for prioritizing own products; new rules for big tech in Australia.

Published

1 year ago

December 2, 2024

Apple Pay could soon be available for banks, while Google may have to ensure competing services are displayed more prominently alongside its own products.

Meta is also expected to be required to allow cross-platform communication between messaging services, according to the AFR.

The Australian government plans to enhance the powers of the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) to designate platforms posing significant competition risks.

This designation will inform which companies are included under competition laws, targeting their necessary compliance.

Misinformation enforcement

Social media companies like Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok will not be subjected to misinformation enforcement.

Once designated, these platforms must fulfill new obligations, similar to regulations in the European Union, promoting easier app use and greater algorithm transparency.

Assistant Treasurer Stephen Jones indicated that many platforms unfairly favor their own products, making it difficult for consumers to switch to alternatives.

Examples of enforcement may include changes in app store payment policies and the prominence of owned apps in search results.

Google currently faces a lawsuit regarding such practices with its payment systems.

Netflix vs Paramount: The Warner Bros takeover battle explained

Warner Bros faces a pivotal decision between Netflix and Paramount in the evolving streaming and filmmaking landscape.

Published

1 hour ago

December 11, 2025

Harvey Vargas

Warner Bros faces a pivotal decision between Netflix and Paramount in the evolving streaming and filmmaking landscape.

The battle for Warner Bros is heating up, with Netflix and Paramount in a high-stakes clash that could redefine the streaming and filmmaking landscape. We break down who currently holds the stronger position and why Warner Bros might favor Netflix’s offer over Paramount’s all-cash bid.

Darren Woolley from TrinityP3 joins us to discuss the role of equity upside, shareholder sentiment, and the realistic chances of a hostile takeover. We also explore how political connections and regulatory scrutiny could shape the outcome of this landmark deal.

Finally, we look at the wider impact on competitors like Disney, Amazon, and Apple, as well as creators, production partners, and exhibitors. Who will ultimately win this battle for one of the most influential studios in modern media?

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#WarnerBros #Netflix #Paramount #StreamingWars #MediaTakeover #HollywoodDeals #EntertainmentNews #Ticker

News

Elon Musk’s SpaceX plans $25 billion IPO in 2026

Published

2 hours ago

December 11, 2025

Harvey Vargas

SpaceX plans a $25 billion IPO in 2026, potentially valuing the company at over $1 trillion.

Elon Musk’s SpaceX is preparing to raise over $25 billion through an initial public offering in 2026. The move could value the space exploration company at over £1 trillion, fueled by its Starlink internet network and Starship rocket programme.

The IPO discussions are underway with major banks, targeting a launch around June or July. This comes as the IPO market experiences a revival after a three-year slowdown, attracting attention from both institutional and retail investors.

SpaceX is currently the second most-valuable private startup after OpenAI. While investors are excited, some remain cautious about Musk’s ability to manage multiple high-profile companies simultaneously.

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#SpaceX #ElonMusk #IPO #Starlink #Starship #TechNews #Investing #Startup

News

U.S. visa waiver travelers may need to share social media profiles

Trump admin proposes tourists disclose social media profiles for security under visa waiver program, impacting 42 countries.

Published

3 hours ago

December 11, 2025

Harvey Vargas

Trump admin proposes tourists disclose social media profiles for security under visa waiver program, impacting 42 countries.

The Trump administration has proposed new rules requiring tourists visiting the United States under the visa waiver program to disclose their social media profiles. This applies to citizens from countries including Australia, the UK, and France, who would need to provide five years of social media history.

The requirement specifically targets travelers using the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA), which covers 42 countries. US Customs and Border Protection says the move is necessary to enhance national security.

Public comments on the proposal will be open for 60 days, and full implementation could take several months. It’s still unclear whether private messages would be included or if only public profiles are required.

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#USVisa #TravelNews #SocialMediaCheck #ESTA #NationalSecurity #TravelUpdate #VisaWaiver #TourismRules