Driving Sales,
​Partnerships & M&A
in science and tech

Today, Allianz SE entered into binding share purchase agreements with Bajaj Finserv Ltd. to sell its 26% stake in its successful non-life and life insurance joint ventures – Bajaj Allianz General Insurance Company and Bajaj Allianz Life Insurance Company – to the Bajaj Group for a total consideration of EUR ~2.6bn. Allianz may receive the proceeds in several tranches.https://www.allianz.com/en/mediacenter/news/media-releases/financials/250317-allianz-to-sell-stake-in-indian-non-life-and-life-insurance-joint-ventures.html

As the global political landscape undergoes a significant transformation, new alliances are emerging, and existing ones are being strengthened. One such partnership that is gaining prominence is the relationship between India and the European Union (EU). While historically characterized by trade disputes and differing political ideologies, the two entities are now forging closer ties, driven by shared interests and a recognition of their collective influence on the world stage.https://www.startupeuropeindia.net/news/europe-india/india-and-the-eu-a-growing-partnership-in-a-shifting-world

An Australian man lived for 100 days with an artificial titanium heart while he awaited a donor transplant, the longest period to date of someone with the technology. The BiVACOR total artificial heart, invented by Queensland-born Dr Daniel Timms, is the world’s first implantable rotary blood pump that can act as a complete replacement for a human heart, using magnetic levitation technology to replicate the natural blood flow of a healthy heart.  https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2025/mar/12/australian-man-survives-100-days-with-artificial-heart-in-world-first-success 

Indian tech companies setting up operations in London. Equally, if we look at it as a student market, post-Brexit, India has really rapidly grown as a student market. It's now the number two source market for London after China. It's also a fast-growing tourism market for London; India is just a really critical, top market for Londonhttps://www.ndtv.com/world-news/india-pegged-as-top-source-market-for-londons-ambitious-new-growth-plan-7880656

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hzBRDmqUJ9w

I still vividly remember my early days as a young core network engineer, analyzing Skype traffic, trying to classify those elusive packets so they could be included in data plans. It was a time when VoIP was shaking up the telecom world, and Skype was at the heart of it - a disruptor, a headache, and a marvel.https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-365/blog/2025/02/28/the-next-chapter-moving-from-skype-to-microsoft-teams/

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BzgUOKFrHcA

As the EU and India work to finalize their landmark free trade agreement (FTA) by late 2025, startups and small businesses stand to gain unprecedented opportunities in cross-border innovation, sustainability, and market expansion. With negotiations entering their 10th round in March 2025, here’s how this partnership could reshape opportunities for agile businesses.https://app.startupeuropeindia.net/blogs/EU-India/eu-india-free-trade-agreement-a-new-horizon-for-startups-and-smes

India is rapidly solidifying its position as a formidable player in the global defense industry, propelled by strategic initiatives, robust policy reforms, and a steadfast commitment to self-reliance. This transformation is not only enhancing the nation’s military capabilities but also positioning India as a key contributor to international defense markets.https://www.startupeuropeindia.net/news/defense/indias-rise-as-a-global-defense-powerhouse-a-new-era-of-military-strength-and-exports

China’s thorium breakthrough offers a tantalizing glimpse of a sustainable future. By leveraging its vast reserves—potentially the largest on Earth—China could lead a global shift away from fossil fuels, reshaping business landscapes and geopolitical alliances. https://www.startupeuropeindia.net/news/technology/chinas-thorium-breakthrough-a-game-changer-for-global-energy-in-2025

New Delhi plans to spend about $200 billion over the next 10 years on transforming and modernizing its military.https://www.startupeuropeindia.net/news/defense/indias-rise-as-a-global-defense-powerhouse-a-new-era-of-military-strength-and-exports

The trip kickstarts the 15th round of trade negotiations with India, a booming economy of 1.4 billion people, after they were paused in May when Rishi Sunak called the general electionhttps://www.theguardian.com/world/2025/feb/23/ministers-head-to-india-in-search-of-trade-deal-they-hope-will-boost-uk-economy

After being initially dismissive, OpenAI CEO Sam Altman this month said India should be playing a leading role in the AI revolution. The country is now OpenAI's second largest market by users.Others like Microsoft have put serious money on the table – committing $3bn (£2.4bn) for cloud and AI infrastructure. Nvidia's Jensen Huang also spoke of India's "unmatched" technical talent as a key to unlocking its future potential. https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cp8qglr9r74o

In a bold move that could reshape global connectivity, Meta, the tech giant behind Facebook, has unveiled plans to construct the world's longest underwater cable system. This ambitious project aims to connect continents and bolster internet infrastructure on an unprecedented scale.Spanning Oceans, Connecting WorldsMeta's proposed submarine cable is set to break records, stretching across vast oceanic expanses to link multiple continents. The sheer scale of this project underscores the company's commitment to improving global internet access and expanding its digital footprint.1. Record-Breaking Length: The cable system is designed to be the longest of its kind, covering thousands of kilometers and traversing multiple ocean basins.2. Cutting-Edge Technology: Utilizing state-of-the-art fiber optic technology, the cable promises to deliver high-speed, reliable data transmission across vast distances.3. Enhanced Connectivity: By directly connecting continents, the system aims to significantly reduce internet latency and increase data transfer speeds.4. Environmental Considerations: Meta has emphasized its commitment to minimizing the cable's impact on marine ecosystems during installation and operation.5. Collaborative Effort: While spearheaded by Meta, the project involves partnerships with various telecommunications companies and technology firms.Implications for the Digital LandscapeThe potential impact of this undersea cable project extends far beyond Meta's immediate interests:Global Internet Access: The new infrastructure could bring high-speed internet to underserved regions, aligning with Meta's goal of expanding global connectivity.Economic Opportunities: Improved internet infrastructure may stimulate economic growth by facilitating international trade and enabling new digital business models.Technological Advancements: The project could spur innovations in underwater cable technology and marine engineering, pushing the boundaries of global communications infrastructure.Data Privacy and Security: As a major player in the tech industry, Meta's increased role in internet infrastructure raises important questions about data privacy and security.Despite its potential, the project faces several hurdles:1. Regulatory Complexities: Navigating international regulations and obtaining permissions from multiple countries presents a significant challenge.2. Technical Hurdles: Laying and maintaining a cable of this length involves overcoming substantial technical obstacles.3. Geopolitical Considerations: The cable's route and ownership structure could have far-reaching geopolitical implications.4. Competitive Landscape: While positioning Meta as a leader in global connectivity, the project also opens doors for collaboration with other tech giants and telecommunications companies.A New Chapter in Global ConnectivityMeta's ambitious undersea cable project represents a significant leap towards a more connected world. As the initiative progresses, it has the potential to reshape internet infrastructure and transform how we communicate, work, and interact on a global scale.This groundbreaking project not only showcases Meta's technological prowess but also highlights the ongoing evolution of the internet as a critical global resource. As we move towards an increasingly digital future, initiatives like this undersea cable system will play a pivotal role in shaping our connected world.The success of this venture could mark a new era in global communications, cementing Meta's position as a key player in the future of internet infrastructure. As the project unfolds, it will undoubtedly be watched closely by tech enthusiasts, industry leaders, and policymakers alike, potentially setting new standards for global connectivity projects in the years to come.

Some 4,000 people live in Tulsi, and reports suggest more than 1,000 of them work on YouTube in some capacity. Walk around the village itself and it's hard to find someone who hasn't appeared in one of the many videos being filmed there. https://www.bbc.co.uk/future/article/20250217-how-a-tiny-village-became-indias-youtube-capital

Apple does have keen and powerful partners: Tata, a leading flag-bearer of Indian business, is positioning itself as Apple’s first full-service supplier in India https://on.ft.com/4i2COg6 @Apple #electronics #iphone

Queen’s University Belfast is set to become the first UK Russell Group university to open a campus in Gujarat International Finance Tec-City (GIFT City, India), with the first cohort of students expected to start in January 2026.https://www.qub.ac.uk/News/Allnews/2025/QueensUniversityBelfasttolaunchcampusinGIFTCityIndia.html#:~:text=Queen's%20University%20Belfast%20is%20set,and%20technology%20centre%20in%20India.

https://www.ft.com/content/a0fb6ad1-4e1f-4fc8-9706-f1eb408ad443

https://www.ft.com/content/e50624cc-3820-4d6c-aaf0-0b5a0773ffca

Members of SEINET can announce Jobs here on SEINEThttps://app.startupeuropeindia.net/jobs

The UK government has announced plans to introduce digital versions of official documents, including passports, in a new smartphone app. This move aims to streamline identity verification processes and make accessing government services more convenient for citizens.1. Digital Passport IntegrationThe app will allow users to store a digital version of their passport, which can be used for various identity checks. This digital passport will complement, not replace, the physical document.2. Other Digital IDsIn addition to passports, the app will support other forms of identification such as driving licenses and national insurance numbers.3. Secure TechnologyThe government emphasizes that the app will use secure technology to protect users' personal information. This includes encryption and biometric authentication methods.4. Gradual RolloutThe digital ID system will be introduced gradually, starting with a pilot program before a wider rollout.5. Voluntary AdoptionUsing the digital ID app will be optional. Citizens can continue to use physical documents if they prefer.6. Privacy ConcernsSome privacy advocates have raised concerns about data security and potential misuse of the digital ID system. The government has promised robust safeguards to address these issues.7. International RecognitionWhile the digital passport will be valid for domestic use, international recognition may take time as agreements with other countries need to be established.8. Accessibility ConsiderationsThe government plans to ensure the app is accessible to all, including those who may not have smartphones or struggle with digital technology.This initiative represents a significant step towards digitizing government services in the UK. As the project develops, it will be crucial to balance convenience with security and privacy concerns.

Scientists at Durham University's Physics department have made a groundbreaking achievement in quantum science by successfully entangling individual molecules using advanced magic-wavelength optical tweezers. This accomplishment places Durham among a select group of institutions worldwide capable of such sophisticated quantum manipulation.1. Long-lasting entanglement between pairs of ultracold molecules2. Use of magic-wavelength optical tweezers for exceptional stability3. Record-high reliability in entanglement detection4. Ability to observe previously undetectable molecular interactionsThe innovation centers on the use of magic-wavelength optical tweezers, which create identical energy shifts in two rotational states of a molecule. This technique preserves coherence in the entangled state for extended periods, significantly enhancing the stability and reliability of the quantum system.Quantum Computing and MemoryThe breakthrough paves the way for advancements in quantum computing and quantum memory technologies, potentially revolutionizing information processing and storage.Fundamental Physics ResearchThe enhanced stability of magic-wavelength traps enables ultra-precise measurements of molecular energy shifts, offering new avenues for exploring physics beyond the Standard Model. https://www.durham.ac.uk/news-events/latest-news/2025/01/scientists-achieve-world-leading-quantum-entanglement-of-molecules/

The rise of eSIM technology is revolutionizing how travelers stay connected while abroad. This innovative solution addresses common connectivity challenges faced by international travelers, offering a seamless and secure alternative to traditional physical SIM cards and unreliable public Wi-Fi networks.How eSIM WorksAn eSIM (embedded SIM) is a digital SIM card built into your device. Unlike physical SIM cards, eSIMs can be activated remotely through an app or website, allowing users to switch between carriers and plans without physically changing cards. This technology enables travelers to:- Connect to cellular networks without swapping physical SIM cards- Activate international plans before or during travel- Use essential travel apps, GPS, and communication tools seamlessly- Stay connected in multiple countries without purchasing local SIM cardsBenefits of eSIM for TravelersEnhanced Security and ReliabilityeSIM services provide a secure internet connection, eliminating the need to rely on potentially unsafe public Wi-Fi networks. This protects personal data, including sensitive banking information stored on mobile devices.Unlimited Data and FlexibilityMany eSIM providers offer unlimited data plans, ensuring travelers can stay connected without worrying about data caps. This is particularly beneficial for digital nomads and remote workers who require constant connectivity.Cost-Effective SolutioneSIMs often provide more affordable options compared to traditional international roaming charges. Travelers can save money on connectivity and allocate those funds to other aspects of their trip.Convenience and Ease of UseWith eSIM technology, there's no need to purchase or swap physical SIM cards. Users can easily switch between plans or carriers as needed, and even set up mobile hotspots to share data with other devices.Environmental BenefitsThe digital nature of eSIMs eliminates the need for plastic SIM cards and packaging, making it an eco-friendly choice for environmentally conscious travelers.Getting Started with eSIMTo use an eSIM for travel:1. Verify your device's eSIM compatibility2. Choose an eSIM provider and plan3. Purchase the eSIM through the provider's website or app4. Follow the activation instructions provided5. Enjoy seamless connectivity during your travelsAs eSIM technology continues to evolve and gain popularity, it's poised to become the standard for mobile connectivity, especially for international travelers. With its numerous benefits and increasing availability, eSIM is indeed revolutionizing the way we stay connected while exploring the world.

The UK government has announced new initiatives to enhance its science and technology collaboration with the European Union. This move comes as part of a broader strategy to address global challenges and stimulate economic growth through innovation.1. Advertising Campaign: A nationwide campaign has been launched to boost UK participation in Horizon Europe, the world's largest research collaboration program.2. European Research Infrastructure Consortia: The UK has joined four new ERICs, fostering collaboration in areas such as historical research, heritage science, astronomy, and river-sea systems studies.3. High-Level Discussions: UK Science and Technology Secretary Peter Kyle met with European Commissioners to discuss strengthening science and tech ties.4. Networking Opportunities: Innovate UK plans to organize brokerage events in Italy, Germany, and Spain to help UK researchers and businesses connect with European R&D partners.5. Financial Support: The government is offering Pump Priming grants to support the establishment of consortia and development of high-quality applications for Horizon Europe funding.The UK's participation in Horizon Europe is showing positive trends, with the country hosting the second-highest number of projects in the latest ERC Synergy Grants. This renewed push for collaboration aligns with the government's broader objectives, including economic growth, improving healthcare outcomes, and delivering clean energy.By fostering closer ties with the EU in science and technology, the UK aims to leverage the collective expertise of researchers and innovators from both regions to address pressing global issues such as climate change and public health. This collaborative approach is expected to drive innovation and contribute to the government's mission of national renewal and economic prosperity.https://www.gov.uk/government/news/uk-redoubles-horizon-push-as-kyle-forges-deeper-ri-links-with-eu

Vodafone has made history by successfully conducting the world's first space video call using standard 4G/5G smartphones and commercial satellites. This groundbreaking achievement marks a significant step towards providing full mobile broadband experience in areas with no existing mobile coverage.1. The call was made by Vodafone engineer Rowan Chesmer from a remote area in Wales to Margherita Della Valle, Vodafone Group Chief Executive.2. Astronaut Tim Peake joined the event, emphasizing the importance of communication from remote locations.3. The technology allows multiple users to make video calls, access the internet, and use messaging services without special equipment.4. It's the only satellite service offering mobile broadband directly to regular 4G or 5G smartphones.5. Vodafone aims to introduce this service commercially across Europe starting later in 2025 and throughout 2026.This advancement is set to bridge the digital divide, providing connectivity in previously unreachable areas. The service seamlessly integrates with existing terrestrial networks, offering a truly ubiquitous communication experience. It represents a major leap in telecommunications, potentially revolutionizing global connectivity and bringing broadband access to billions of currently unconnected people.https://www.vodafone.com/news/technology/vodafone-makes-historic-satellite-video-call-from-a-smartphone

Enaganti is now working on a version of that dream through India’s Param Foundation. The Bengaluru-based not-for-profit is led by young technology professionals who are seeking to create immersive science education programs by building science centers and experiences in public spaces, where visitors can interact with them instead of simply viewing exhibits through a display case.https://spectrum.ieee.org/india-new-science-centers

We're recruiting for a General Manager Responsible AI - to be based in Dubai. Tech background with auditing apis and AI tools expertise along with understanding of the EU AI act and related policies. The candidate is preferred to be currently located in Europe or UAE. Relocation provided to European candidates https://pinegray.com/responsible-artificial-intelligence-job-opening

In an era where artificial intelligence is reshaping the digital landscape, a recent incident involving OpenAI's web crawler and a small e-commerce company has highlighted the unintended consequences of AI-driven data collection. This event serves as a cautionary tale for businesses navigating the complex world of online retail in 2025.Triplegangers, a seven-person company specializing in 3D image files of human models, found itself at the center of an AI storm when OpenAI's bot attempted to scrape its extensive database. The bot's aggressive crawling resembled a distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) attack, overwhelming Triplegangers' servers with tens of thousands of requests.CEO Oleksandr Tomchuk described the situation: "OpenAI used 600 IPs to scrape data, and we are still analyzing logs from last week, perhaps it's way more. Their crawlers were crushing our site. It was basically a DDoS attack."The incident had several immediate consequences for Triplegangers:1. Website Downtime: The site crashed during U.S. business hours, preventing customers from accessing products.2. Increased Costs: The company faced unexpected AWS expenses due to the bot's intensive activity.3. Data Vulnerability: Uncertainty about what data was taken raised concerns about intellectual property and customer privacy.4. Operational Disruption: The team had to divert resources to address the issue, impacting normal business operations.In response to the attack, Triplegangers implemented several measures:1. Properly configured robots.txt file to guide web crawlers2. Set up Cloudflare protection to manage and filter incoming traffic3. Added specific tags to block OpenAI's bot from accessing sensitive areasThese steps successfully halted the aggressive scraping, allowing the e-commerce platform to regain stability.This incident is not isolated. It reflects a growing trend of AI-driven threats to e-commerce platforms. Recent studies reveal that retail websites face an average of 569,884 AI-driven attacks daily, with DDoS attacks accounting for 30.6% of all AI-driven threats.The retail sector has experienced a significant 61% increase in application-layer DDoS attacks compared to the previous year. This surge highlights the evolving cybersecurity landscape, where traditional defense mechanisms may no longer suffice against sophisticated, automated threats.As we move deeper into 2025, e-commerce businesses must adapt to this new reality. Here are some key strategies:1. Implement robust bot management solutions2. Regularly update and patch software3. Use CAPTCHA and other user verification methods4. Employ rate limiting and traffic filtering5. Invest in AI-powered fraud detection systemsThe Triplegangers incident serves as a wake-up call for the e-commerce industry. As AI technologies become more prevalent, businesses must balance the benefits of AI-driven operations with the need for robust cybersecurity measures.The future of online retail will likely see an arms race between AI-powered threats and AI-driven defenses. Companies that can navigate this landscape effectively will be best positioned to thrive in the evolving digital marketplace of 2025 and beyond.https://techcrunch.com/2025/01/10/how-openais-bot-crushed-this-seven-person-companys-web-site-like-a-ddos-attack/

Meta, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram, has announced significant changes to its content moderation policies and board composition, signaling a new direction for the tech giant.https://app.startupeuropeindia.net/blogs/technology/meta-overhauls-content-moderation-and-expands-board

Nvidia has completed its acquisition of Run:ai, an Israeli AI infrastructure management startup, for approximately $700 million. This strategic move strengthens Nvidia's position in the AI ecosystem and expands its presence in Israel. The acquisition faced scrutiny from both U.S. and European regulators, with the European Commission granting unconditional approval on December 20, 2024, concluding that the deal would not raise competition concerns.As part of the merger, Nvidia plans to open-source Run:ai's software, which currently only works with Nvidia products. This move aims to extend its availability to the entire AI ecosystem, potentially allowing competitors like AMD and Intel to adapt it for their hardware. Run:ai specializes in Kubernetes-based software for orchestrating AI workloads across GPU clusters, optimizing resource allocation and improving efficiency in AI infrastructure.Nvidia intends to incorporate Run:ai's technology into its product lineup, including DGX and DGX SuperPOD systems, Base Command, NGC containers, and Nvidia AI Enterprise. This acquisition marks Nvidia's largest investment in Israel since purchasing Mellanox Technologies for $6.9 billion in 2020. Nvidia's local R&D center in Israel has grown to over 4,000 employees since its establishment in 2016.Run:ai will maintain operational independence, allowing it to continue collaborating with other industry players and preserving its existing partnerships with companies like AWS, VMware, and Dell. The acquisition is expected to enhance Nvidia's capabilities in managing complex AI workloads, particularly in large-scale enterprise and research environments, potentially leading to faster development and deployment of AI applications across various industries.#nvidia