How are EU tech regulations affecting small builders?

Lately, I have been following how Meta and TikTok are challenging the EU’s new Digital Services Act fees, saying they’re vague, unfair, and possibly even based on double-counted user data. It’s only 0.05% of global revenue, but if the biggest platforms are struggling to make sense of the rules, what about indie makers like us?

As someone who’s helped launch multiple products in the EU, I get the goal: safer, more accountable platforms. That’s important.

But I can’t help but ask — are these shifting regulations slowing down innovation for smaller players?

We may not be paying these fees directly, but we’re still facing the ripple effects: added compliance exxpectations, content moderation burdens, and user data responsibilities.

Are we heading toward a healthier, more ethical web or just a harder one to build on without a legal team behind you?

Curious how others are handling this. Have recent EU launches been more complex for you too?