Alphabet (NASDAQ: GOOG) (NASDAQ: GOOGL) has been an excellent growth stock for long-term investors. The shares have soared more than 500% over the past decade, as earnings and revenue climbed into the billions of dollars. All this is due to Alphabet's dominance in something that most of us use every day -- internet search. Alphabet's Google has steadily held about 90% of that market over time, and this position, along with ongoing improvement in its capabilities and brand strength, make it a very difficult-to-unseat leader. Start Your Mornings Smarter! Wake up with Breakfast news in your inbox every market day. Sign Up For Free » All of this has helped the company build a booming advertising business. Advertisers, trying to reach us where they know they'll find us, rush to Google to promote their products and services. And today, advertising makes up the lion's share of Alpabet's revenue. For example, it represented about 75% in the most recent quarter. So the strength of Google Search is a reason to take a closer look at Alphabet. However, if you're an investor focused on growth, here's why you'll really want to buy this top stock now. Using artificial intelligence (AI) to make Google Search better First, before delving into this exciting source of growth, let's take a closer look at the Alphabet story so far. As mentioned, the company is known for its dominance in search, and the great news is this strength is likely to continue. Alphabet has been heavily investing in artificial intelligence (AI), something it is applying to its search platform to help users generate better results faster. For example, AI Overviews offers users a preview of a topic, including links to find out more, and Alphabet recently rolled it out in 100 new countries. The company's focus on AI also is helping advertisers in many ways. Alphabet's AI, powered by large language model Gemini, helps deliver ads to the most relevant audiences and is helping advertisers create better and potentially more successful campaigns. All of this suggests growth from the search business could not only continue, but even see a big boost as a better-than-ever Google Search attracts more and more users -- and prompts advertisers to spend more to reach them. For the moment, though, Google's advertising business has averaged about 11% revenue growth over the past three quarters. Of course, it's important to keep in mind that Alphabet's search business does face a risk. U.S. regulators recently presented closing arguments in an antitrust case against the tech giant. They're asking a federal judge to break up Google, which could include the sale of the Chrome web browser. It's impossible to predict with 100% certainty how this will turn out, but Alphabet clearly would appeal a potentially unfavorable decision -- a move that would push a new decision farther into the future. Beyond the possibility of a delay, another positive point for Alphabet investors is the idea that major tech breakup orders haven't happened easily in the past. For example, about 25 years ago, a federal appeals court overturned a breakup ruling concerning Microsoft . All of this makes me more optimistic than pessimistic about Alphabet's long-term prospects. A new phase of growth from this established player Now let's consider another Alphabet business -- one that has roared ahead when it comes to revenue power. And this is the business that will make you want to get in on this established company's new phase of growth. I'm talking about Google Cloud, Alphabet's cloud computing unit. The business generated a 35% increase in revenue in the recent quarter after already reporting a 29% revenue increase in the previous quarter. Google Cloud also is outpacing cloud rivals, such as the world's biggest cloud provider, Amazon Web Services (AWS), when it comes to growth. Amazon reported a 19% increase in AWS revenue in the recent quarter, and Microsoft 's Azure and other cloud services revenue gained 33%. Google Cloud's revenue topped $11 billion in the third quarter after revenue and operating income reached the major milestones of more than $10 billion and $1 billion, respectively, in the second quarter. And Google Cloud is showing strong profitability on sales, with an operating margin of 17%. There's reason to be optimistic about Google Cloud keeping up this momentum, as Alphabet's investments in AI have resulted in more and more AI products and services offered through the business. Alphabet says customers are using Google Cloud's AI in several different ways, such as harnessing AI infrastructure, like chips, or using the enterprise software platform to customize AI models. In the recent earnings report, Alphabet said this has helped Google Cloud win new customers and bigger deals and drive a 30% increase in product adoption among current customers. The AI market is forecast to grow from about $200 billion today to $1 trillion by the end of the decade, and Google Cloud is well positioned to benefit. On top of this, Alphabet shares trade for a bargain price, at about 21x forward earnings estimates . All of this means right now is a great time to invest in this top technology company -- for the new wave of growth that's getting started in the cloud business. Should you invest $1,000 in Alphabet right now? Before you buy stock in Alphabet, consider this: The Motley Fool Stock Advisor analyst team just identified what they believe are the 10 best stocks for investors to buy now... and Alphabet wasn’t one of them. The 10 stocks that made the cut could produce monster returns in the coming years. Consider when Nvidia made this list on April 15, 2005... if you invested $1,000 at the time of our recommendation, you’d have $829,378 !* Stock Advisor provides investors with an easy-to-follow blueprint for success, including guidance on building a portfolio, regular updates from analysts, and two new stock picks each month. The Stock Advisor service has more than quadrupled the return of S&P 500 since 2002*. See the 10 stocks » *Stock Advisor returns as of November 25, 2024 Suzanne Frey, an executive at Alphabet, is a member of The Motley Fool’s board of directors. Adria Cimino has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Alphabet and Microsoft. The Motley Fool recommends the following options: long January 2026 $395 calls on Microsoft and short January 2026 $405 calls on Microsoft. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy . Advertising Revenue Powers Alphabet's Earnings, but Here's Why You'll Really Want to Buy the Stock Now was originally published by The Motley Fool
In November, the consumer prices in Beijing, China experienced a month-on-month decrease of 0.8%, with food prices leading the decline. This drop in consumer prices comes as a significant point of interest for economists and policymakers, as it reflects the current economic trends and the impact of various factors on the cost of living for residents in the capital city.
How Blogging Builds Trust and Brand Loyalty
In a tragic turn of events, popular internet celebrity "Liu Dabeili" has passed away, leaving fans and followers in shock and mourning. Liu Dabeili, known for her glamorous lifestyle and beauty tips, was just 28 years old at the time of her unexpected death. Reports suggest that Liu underwent cosmetic surgery at a well-known hospital prior to her passing, raising concerns about the safety and regulations within the cosmetic surgery industry.
NoneLooking ahead, Shi Yuqi emphasized his desire to maintain a strong sense of motivation and focus in his career. "Winning this award is a great encouragement, but it also serves as a reminder that I must continue to work hard and improve," he remarked. The young player is well aware of the challenges that come with staying at the top of his game, and he is determined to face them head-on with resilience and determination.
As he looked up at the darkening sky, a single tear rolled down his cheek, a tear of gratitude, of redemption, of freedom. And in that moment, he knew that no matter what challenges lay ahead, he would face them head-on, with courage, with determination, and with the knowledge that he had overcome the greatest challenge of all - the challenge of reclaiming his freedom.As the global economy continues to navigate through uncertain times, all eyes are on the signals being sent by central banks around the world. In particular, the recent trend towards moderate easing has sparked conversations about the potential impact on next year's economic landscape and the shift in monetary policy that may accompany it.
In a significant move to strengthen its presence in the global aviation industry, JD Airlines has officially announced its membership in the International Air Transport Association (IATA). This strategic decision not only signifies JD Airlines' commitment to upholding international standards of safety, efficiency, and customer service but also opens up new avenues for collaboration and growth in the competitive airline market.TGA Players' Choice Finalists Spark Discontent: Three Gacha Mobile Games + DLC?The recent controversy surrounding the requirement for high school graduates to fill out their great-grandparents' family background information on the political examination form has sparked debate and confusion among students and parents. The Education Bureau's response to this issue, stating that it is not necessary to provide such information and attributing the mistake to the lack of understanding by school registration staff, has only added to the growing frustration and concern.Rocket Cos. Inc. stock underperforms Monday when compared to competitors
Moss made his announcement on social media Monday. Moss started the Trojans ' bowl victory last season and their first nine games this season before coach Lincoln Riley replaced him with Jayden Maiava in early November. “Being a USC Trojan was a lifelong dream of mine,” Moss wrote. “Putting on the cardinal and gold and competing on behalf of my teammates and school is something I will forever take pride in. I poured everything I have into this — body, heart, mind and soul — and am humbled by and proud of what my teammates and I accomplished.” Moss, who was born in Los Angeles and went to high school in the San Fernando Valley, signed with USC before Riley arrived at the school. Moss also stayed with the Trojans after Caleb Williams transferred from Oklahoma to rejoin Riley, and he served as Williams’ backup for two seasons before getting his chance to play with six touchdown passes in last year's Holiday Bowl. Moss completed 64.4% of his passes this season for 2,555 yards with 18 touchdowns and nine interceptions. After a spectacular 378-yard performance to beat LSU in the Trojans' season opener, Moss didn't play poorly as a starter, but he also wasn't a difference-maker while USC stumbled to a 4-5 record. Moss threw seven interceptions in his final five starts before losing the job to Maiava. The Trojans went 1-4 in that stretch under Moss, who plays as a more traditional pocket passer while Maiava has the mobility usually favored for quarterbacks in Riley's spread offense. “Looking towards the future, I'm unwaveringly committed to becoming an even better quarterback and leader, and to achieving this at the next level,” Moss wrote. Moss has already graduated from USC, putting him in the portal as a graduate student. USC (6-6) is headed to a lower-tier bowl game again to finish this season, its third under Riley. AP college football: https://apnews.com/hub/ap-top-25-college-football-poll and https://apnews.com/hub/college-football
While Napoli are reluctant to part ways with their prized asset, Esposito's release clause gives Inter Milan the opportunity to sign him for a relatively modest fee. The Nerazzurri are reportedly prepared to meet the €5 million buyout clause in order to secure his services.
NASH.VILLE, Tenn (AP) — Nico Iamaleava threw for 257 yards and four touchdowns rallying No. 7 Tennessee from a 14-point deficit within the first five minutes to rout in-state rival Vanderbilt 36-23 Saturday. The Volunteers (10-2, 6-2 Southeastern Conference; No. 8 CFP) needed a big victory to impress the College Football Playoff committee enough to earn a home playoff game in December. They beat Vanderbilt (6-6, 3-5) for a sixth straight season. Better yet, they rebounded from a nightmare start giving up the first 14 points by scoring 29 straight points. They led 24-17 at halftime on Iamaleava's first three TD passes. Junior Sherrill returned the opening kickoff 100 yards for a touchdown for Vanderbilt to stun a mostly orange crowd. Dylan Sampson fumbled on the Vols’ second play from scrimmage, and Sedrick Alexanader's 4-yard TD run on a 26-yard drive put Vandy up 14-0 quickly. Then Iamaleava got Tennessee going with a 28-yard TD pass to Dont’e Thornton Jr. Tennessee got a break when Max Gilbert's 50-yard field goal bounced off the crossbar and over. Iamaleava found Thornton again on an 86-yard catch-and-run TD, then he tossed an 18-yard TD pass to Miles Kitselman just before halftime. Iamaleava capped the opening drive of the third quarter hitting Mike Matthews with a 14-yard TD pass for a 31-17 lead. The Vols added a safety by Tyre West and another Gilbert field goal. Diego Pavia threw a 31-yard TD pass to Richie Hoskins late with Vandy's 2-point conversion failing for the final margin. Tennessee didn't make a good early impression with yet another slow start. The Vols need to hope for some help to have a chance at moving up a spot or two . The big question is whether the Vols get to host a playoff game in December at Neyland Stadium where they went undefeated this season. Tennessee put together TD drives of 91 and 96 yards in the first half alone. The Vols then beat Vandy at its own game of keepaway after not even managing 10 minutes of possession in the first half. They finished with the edge in that stat outgaining Vandy 538-212. Vanderbilt had some of the best offensive success against Tennessee of any opponent this season. The Commodores had 114 yards rushing and 17 points by halftime against a defense that came in ranked sixth nationally allowing just 98.8 yards a game. The Vols had been fourth in the country giving up just 13.1 points a game having held 10 of 11 opponents under 20 points this season. The Tennessee running back, who set the program record with 22 rushing TDs this season, didn't reach the end zone for the first time this season. Sampson finished with 178 yards rushing to reach 1,485 yards for the season, topping the school mark of 1,464 set by Travis Stephens in 2001. Tennessee waits to hear its spot in the CFP field, while Vanderbilt learns its bowl destination Dec. 8. Get poll alerts and updates on the AP Top 25 throughout the season. Sign up here . AP college football: https://apnews.com/hub/ap-top-25-college-football-poll and https://apnews.com/hub/college-football.The recent incident at the bathhouse serves as a sobering reminder of the fragility of public health and the importance of upholding strict hygiene standards in communal spaces. Through a collaborative effort between government agencies, healthcare providers, and the community, steps are being taken to address the immediate concerns and prevent further outbreaks in the future.Volvo Cars Australia hasn’t given up on its trusty XC90 just yet, with the popular large SUV’s second facelift originally not intended for our market now confirmed for launch during the first half of 2025. Revealed in September, the 2025 Volvo XC90 is the third iteration of the second-generation model first launched globally in 2015, boasting a more comprehensive set of design revisions and Volvo’s latest technologies to bring it in line with the Swedish brand’s newest models like the all-electric EX90 . Headlining the changes are a new face more akin to Volvo’s new electric range of ‘EX’ models, as well as a new 11.2-inch high-resolution infotainment system running the brand’s latest interface. Know the news with the 7NEWS app: Download today Volvo has applied some less obvious changes, like improved storage space in the centre console, a relocated wireless smartphone charger, redesigned gear selector and additional sound insulation to make the cabin quieter. 100s of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now . Beyond that, “the best-ever Volvo XC90” is more or less the same under the skin – and it already had proven and capable underpinnings. Volvo is keen to label the available T8 plug-in hybrid version as an “electric car with a back-up plan”, quoting over 70km of WLTP-certified electric driving range, and a further 800km of range from the turbocharged petrol engine (based on fuel economy of 8.6L/100km once the battery is depleted). Globally, the existing B5 and B6 mild-hybrid versions also carry over. It’s unclear if all three powertrain variants will continue in Australia into 2025, or whether the T8 will become more widely available. Full pricing and specifications for our market will be detailed closer to launch but, for reference, the existing range is priced from $99,940 plus on-road costs for the Ultra B5 Bright, climbing to $128,390 before on-roads for the Ultra T8 Plug-in Hybrid flagship. Given the expected upgrades, we could see the upgraded XC90’s starting price in Australia start above six figures, unless base pricing reduces closer to the $86,990 entry point from a few years ago when the more affordable Momentum grade was offered (which could be called Plus in today’s nomenclature). Stay tuned to CarExpert for more details. MORE: 2025 Volvo XC90 gets new lease on life MORE: Everything Volvo XC90The inclusion of language-focused programs in the selection process is seen as a significant departure from previous years, signaling a shift towards greater cultural diversity and inclusivity in the gala lineup. This move has been met with enthusiasm by many, who see it as a positive step towards broadening the scope of content featured in the annual event.
WEBCO INDUSTRIES, INC. REPORTS FISCAL 2025 FIRST QUARTER RESULTSKnit and natter group helping bring joy across Europe this Christmas
(The Center Square) – American taxpayers may provide a loan of more than $7.5 billion to a joint venture involving automaker Chrysler that plans to build electric vehicle batteries in Indiana. On Monday, the U.S. Department of Energy’s Loan Program Office revealed that StarPlus Energy has received a “conditional commitment” for the multi-billion dollar loan. If approved, teh money would help the collaboration between FCA US and Samsung SDI Co. construct two lithium-ion battery plants in the Kokomo 50 miles north of Indianapolis. The loan announcement comes after the Indiana Economic Development Corp. pledged hundreds of millions of dollars in state tax credits and incentives to the project. Stellantis, FCA’s parent company, and Samsung first announced plans to build an electric vehicle battery plant in Kokomo in May 2022. Then, in October 2023, the partners announced they would construct a second plant. According to Monday’s announcement, the project is expected to create up to 3,200 construction jobs as well as 2,800 plant jobs. The batteries built in Kokomo are forecasted to power about 670,000 electric cars each year. Stellantis would purchase the batteries for the vehicles marketed in the United States. An Energy Department fact sheet indicates that the interest rate for the loan would be the “applicable U.S. Treasury rate for the term of the loan with no credit spread.” No details on the term were immediately available. “This project reinforces President Biden’s Investing in America agenda to onshore and reshore domestic manufacturing technologies,” the Energy Department’s statement said. The loan would come through the federal government’s Advanced Technology Vehicles Manufacturing Loan Program, which was first established through the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007. It would be the second Indiana plant to receive program funds. Last month, the Biden administration announced the finalization of a $1.3 billion loan to ENTEK, which is constructing a factory in Terre Haute to make separators used in lithium-ion batteries. The Biden administration and StarPlus must still complete some requirements before the loan can be finalized. Among them, StarPlus must create a Community Benefits Plan that demonstrates how the company will work with local officials and labor groups. The battery plants are being built using workers from local trade unions. Administration officials are also expecting StarPlus to participate in the Justice40 Initiative, which calls for 40% of the benefits produced from the government’s investment to boost communities that are considered underinvested “and overburdened by pollution.”
In a demonstration of international collaboration, space startups from Japan and India are set to explore the use of laser-equipped satellites to address the pressing issue of space debris. The partnership involves Tokyo-based Orbital Lasers and Indian company InspeCity, aiming to advance in-space services like de-orbiting defunct satellites. Meanwhile, in Chile, the rare Helmeted Water Toad is facing grave threats due to climate change and human encroachment. This unique species, which dates back to the time of dinosaurs, is witnessing habitat degradation, raising concerns about its survival. In a separate development, SpaceX experienced a power failure in California, disrupting ground control during a mission that featured the first private spacewalk. Elsewhere, Japan's Space One faced a setback with its Kairos rocket, which failed soon after launch, as the country aims to bolster its space industry. (With inputs from agencies.)