
The EU introduces voluntary carbon removal certification standards. The European Commission has launched its first voluntary certification methodologies for permanent carbon removals, setting clear standards for technologies that remove CO2 from the atmosphere, facilitating certification and investment in these projects.

Infosecurity Europe has unveiled a new Cyber Startup Programme. The initiative will debut at the 2026 event in London, combining a dedicated startup zone, founder-focused conference content, and a live pitching competition aimed at supporting early-stage cybersecurity businesses.

Tony’s Chocolonely reports double-digit growth despite cocoa price volatility worldwide. The ethical chocolate brand grew revenues 20% year-on-year to €240m, expanded its US footprint, and scaled ethical cocoa sourcing through Tony’s Open Chain, even as the global cocoa sector grappled with record prices and supply disruption.

January reopened Europe’s deal engine, with scale back in focus. From Zurich’s £7.67bn approach to Beazley to Deutsche Börse’s €5.35bn Allfunds agreement, buyers prioritised distribution, fee resilience, and control. Private markets consolidation accelerated, while mining mega-merger talks reminded boards that 2026 could still deliver surprises. Across the continent, scrutiny intensified.

India and the EU finalise landmark trade agreement. The deal concludes nearly 20 years of negotiations, aiming to enhance economic ties. It will reduce tariffs, expand market access, and bolster supply-chain integration between the two regions.

Weekend reviews are more likely to be negative. Mannheim researchers analysed 400 million online ratings and found that reviews written on weekends received fewer 5-star and more 1- to 3-star ratings than those written during the week, with the strongest effect observed in workplace-related feedback.

Nico Rosberg’s venture firm raises $100m, expanding investment portfolio. The former Formula 1 champion’s firm, Rosberg Ventures, closed its third funding round with over $200m in assets under management, investing in technology and sustainable initiatives.

Audion appoints Ina Börner as head of sales & market growth DACH. The move strengthens the company’s presence in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland as it builds on strong regional momentum and expands its pan-European digital audio operations.

European M&A ended 2025 with disciplined, strategically focused December deals. Orange’s €4.25bn move for full control of MasOrange set the tone. Sanofi and Sweden’s Sobi paid for pipeline clarity, Harman bought German ADAS capability, and Prada’s Versace acquisition underlined that European luxury consolidation remains firmly alive.

Leonardo warns of potential UK helicopter factory closure. The Italian defence group may shut its Yeovil site if it fails to secure a £1 billion Ministry of Defence contract, jeopardising the future of Britain’s last remaining helicopter manufacturing facility.