Finally: Europe is tackling digitalization

The mathematical roots of computer technology lie in Europe, the first computer was developed in Europe and the world’s leading provider of lithography systems for the semiconductor industry is based in Europe, more precisely in the Netherlands. However, from a global perspective, Europe has been lagging in information technology for decades. All well-known computer builders are based in the USA and Asia, as are the largest software manufacturers. ASML, SAP, Infineon and a handful of other companies are the only European ‘big names’ on the global IT map.

The new Dutch Silicon Valley around Eindhoven is a shining example of how new innovative strength with promising startups and a growing corporate landscape is emerging on the periphery of one of these three companies. But that’s not enough to let sick man Europe catch up with the world elite in digitalization.