### Introduction to the Podcast In this podcast format "Haken dran" (Hooked), Gavin and Lorenz Meyer discuss current developments in the areas of social media and tech companies. The focus is on DMA penalties against tech giants, Tesla's decline in profits, and arbitrariness on X (formerly Twitter). The EU Commission has imposed penalties for the first time under the Digital Markets Act (DMA): 500 million euros against Apple for its handling of alternative app stores and 200 million euros against Meta for the disputed "pay-or-consent" procedure for advertising tracking consent. Both moderators criticize the amount of the penalties as being too low: "If it's a penalty that you can factor into your controlling beforehand, because it's just a cost factor like postage stamps, then it's factored in and that's it." ### Observations on X (formerly Twitter) On X (formerly Twitter), they observe reach manipulation. According to a New York Times analysis, the accounts of Laura Loomer and other right-wing influencers who had fallen out with Elon Musk were severely restricted in their reach. Musk, who had originally criticized "shadowbanning," now controls the visibility of accounts arbitrarily: "Twitter, that's this game for him and he cheats without end." ### Tesla's Decline in Profits Tesla reports a 71% decline in profits - "the weakest quarter in more than two years." The moderators see a pattern: whenever bad news is pending, Musk announces spectacular future projects, this time robot taxis, to support the stock price. ### Changes at Discord and Meta Changes at Discord and Meta are also discussed. Discord is preparing for its IPO and changing its CEO. Meta is introducing advertising on Threads worldwide and is facing criticism from its own Oversight Board due to the changed content moderation guidelines. ### Tensions between Musk and Finance Minister Scott Bessant A dispute between Musk and Finance Minister Scott Bessant at the White House shows the tensions in Trump's environment: "The annoying thing is that it's all part of the concept, this chaos. And every time you try to bring order into it [...], at that moment you're falling for the trap of those who had no intention other than to spread as much nonsense as possible." ## Evaluation The podcast offers an informative and critical look at the power struggles of large tech companies and their regulation, but suffers from a sometimes chaotic conversation. The moderators jump between topics and occasionally get lost in side tracks, which makes it difficult to follow. What is particularly striking is the persistent criticism of the rule of tech corporations. The moderators clearly identify problematic power structures, such as when Musk uses his platform for personal gain or Tesla manipulates with announcements. The criticism of the too-low amount of EU penalties highlights a clear understanding of economic power relations. The democratic theoretical problems caused by monopoly positions and manipulative behavior are clearly demonstrated. The moderators take a left-liberal perspective, which shapes the classification of the events discussed. However, a more systematic analysis of economic foundations and alternative thinking beyond regulatory approaches is missing. The handling of right-wing influencers like Laura Loomer is interesting: while their political positions are viewed critically, the moderators also criticize Musk's arbitrary exercise of power against these individuals. This shows a nuanced understanding of freedom of expression and platform power. The podcast provides valuable insights into current developments in the tech industry and its social implications. The critical perspective on concentration of power and the connection to the political sphere (such as Trump's environment) makes the show a recommended source of information for anyone interested in the interplay between technology, economy, and politics.