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Analysis

February 3, 2026

German philosophy, FDEs and no job titles: the Palantir culture spreading through European tech

Investors see Palantir as a sign of quality on a founder’s CV, while others caution against replicating some of its more controversial practices


Palantir CEO Alex Karp speaking at the World Economic Forum. Image: Youtube / World Economic Forum

After Wiem Gharbi left Palantir to start her own startup she knew there were traits from her previous employer she’d like to replicate, from its attitude to failure and culture of philosophical debate.

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Maya Dharampal-Hornby

Maya Dharampal-Hornby is a reporter, covering UK tech for Sifted, based in London. She's also the producer of Startup Europe — The Sifted Podcast .

Freya Pratty

Freya Pratty is Sifted's associate editor. She covers UK tech and leads Sifted's investigations. Follow her on X , LinkedIn and Bluesky

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