Mistral AI’s 21 billion euro valuation isn't a blank check for the AI Act’s overall health; it’s more like one very large meal ticket at a very expensive restaurant.
Any real downside protection for the rest of the industry depends on how the little guys fare, not just the giants.
If a small startup in Liège can't afford the legal fees to sort out compliance costs for their new app, that high valuation doesn't pay their bills.
The overall viability of the Act needs to consider the drawdown on everyone, not just the ones with deep pockets already.