Alphabet, with its heavy reliance on digital advertising, faces challenges during weaker economic periods. However, its recent revenue growth slowdown of 3% reflects the current macroeconomic conditions. To address this, Alphabet is implementing cost-cutting measures, including significant layoffs.
Despite these challenges, Alphabet's shares have seen a 40% increase in 2023, albeit remaining 17% below their all-time high. The question arises: Is Alphabet a good investment? The answer is a resounding yes, and here's why.
Google Search, contributing 58% of Alphabet's ad revenue, maintains an overwhelming global market share of 92.8%, while competitors like Bing struggle to gain traction. Thus, Google's dominance remains secure.
Alphabet's Google Cloud Platform (GCP) shows impressive growth, with revenue increasing by 28% year over year, outpacing Amazon Web Services (AWS). GCP's recent achievement of its first operating profit indicates further potential for increased profitability.
Alphabet's commitment to artificial intelligence (AI) is evident, enhancing search capabilities, providing real-time updates, and combating spam. The integration of AI across Workspace products and tools demonstrates Alphabet's ongoing commitment to innovation.
The Other Bets segment, including Waymo, Alphabet's autonomous driving unit, is making strides. The recent partnership with Uber expands Waymo's reach and paves the way for mass adoption of autonomous driving technology.
Despite the surge in shares, Alphabet's valuation with a trailing P/E ratio of 27.6 and forward P/E ratio of 23.2 appears reasonable, considering its dominant position and growth catalysts.
Alphabet generated $17.2 billion in free cash flow, showing a 12% increase, and maintains a robust balance sheet with $115 billion in cash and securities, enabling it to pursue new initiatives.
Considering these factors, Alphabet presents an attractive investment opportunity and can serve as a core holding in a long-term portfolio strategy.