Analysis

February 4, 2026

Startups are hitting $10bn valuations faster — is that a problem?

Half of Europe’s decacorns were minted this year, with some hitting the milestone quicker than ever

Europe’s tech startups are reaching decacorn status faster than ever, as AI and defence fever is leading companies to surpass $10bn valuations in as little as two years.

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Tom Nugent

Tom Nugent is Sifted’s managing editor. He covers university spinouts and robotics. Follow him on X and LinkedIn

Ruggero Di Spigna

Ruggero Di Spigna is a Senior Insights & Product Associate at Sifted. Find him on LinkedIn

Jonathan Sinclair

Jonathan Sinclair is head of research at Sifted. Find him on LinkedIn

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