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EU Increases Investment in Deep Tech to Compete with Global Tech Leaders

In a strategic move to stay competitive in the global tech landscape, the European Union (EU) is set to invest €1.4 billion ($1.5 billion) in deep tech research in 2025. This significant funding boost will come from the European Innovation Council (EIC) as part of Horizon Europe, the EU’s flagship research and innovation program. 

This marks a notable increase of €200 million compared to the previous year’s budget, underlining the EU’s commitment to strengthening its tech capabilities. With this investment, European policymakers aim to narrow the gap with technological heavyweights like the United States and China. 

The deep tech sector, which encompasses advanced fields like artificial intelligence (AI), quantum computing, and biotechnology, has been identified as essential for Europe’s economic revitalization. “The European Innovation Council has emerged as a game-changer in EU support to breakthrough innovation,” stated EU Commissioner Iliana Ivanova. She highlighted the council’s expanded role in channelling resources toward pioneering advancements in technology that could shape the future of Europe’s economy.

As the global tech race accelerates, the EU’s increased funding for deep tech initiatives reflects its resolve to position Europe as a leading hub for innovation and technological progress.

Moniepoint Secures $110 Million Funding Round Led by Google, Becomes Nigeria’s Latest Unicorn

Moniepoint, a Nigerian fintech company, has announced a successful $110 million funding round to scale its digital payment and banking services across Africa. Among the investors in this round are notable new supporters like Google’s Africa Investment Fund, as well as existing investors Development Partners International and Lightrock, a private equity firm. This investment reportedly places Moniepoint’s valuation above the $1 billion mark, officially granting it “unicorn” status, a prestigious milestone in the tech sector.

Founded in 2015, Moniepoint initially focused on building payment infrastructure for banks and financial institutions. However, it has since expanded its offerings to include personal banking services, which it introduced last year. Today, the company processes over 800 million transactions each month, with a transaction value exceeding $17 billion.

The latest funding will enable Moniepoint to further its footprint across Africa, where digital banking and payment services remain essential for economic growth and financial inclusion. With plans to develop a comprehensive platform for businesses, Moniepoint aims to offer solutions spanning digital payments, banking, foreign exchange, credit, and business management tools. 

Nigeria, Africa’s largest fintech market with over 200 million people, represents a promising landscape for financial innovation. By expanding its services, Moniepoint hopes to bridge the gap for millions who still lack access to traditional banking, positioning itself as a major player in Africa’s digital finance ecosystem.

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