Should I buy Alphabet stock in 2025?
Is Alphabet stock a buy right now?
ScoreAlphabet Inc. (GOOGL) remains a core holding in both US and global technology portfolios, attracting steady attention from Irish retail investors looking for long-term growth. As of late May 2025, Alphabet shares are trading at approximately $171.86, with recent daily trading volumes averaging 29 million, slightly below the 39.75 million average – a reflection of market caution after a period of strong gains. Notably, Alphabet exceeded expectations in its recent Q1 2025 results, delivering $90.23 billion in revenue and $2.81 earnings per share, with robust double-digit growth in both key lines: Google Cloud surged by 28% and Google Search by 10% year-on-year. Recent strategic moves, such as the $32 billion acquisition of cloud security firm Wiz and ongoing expansion of Waymo's autonomous ride services, signal Alphabet’s commitment to innovation and diversified growth. While regulatory scrutiny and higher competition in AI remain under watch globally and in the EU, market sentiment among analysts remains clearly constructive. Within the dynamic Communication Services sector, Alphabet stands out for its scale, balance sheet strength, and its ability to monetize new technologies. The current consensus of over 33 national and international banks sets a target price near $223.42, underlining broad institutional confidence. For investors in Ireland seeking exposure to resilient technology leaders, Alphabet warrants careful consideration at these levels.
- ✅Financially robust with over $95 billion in cash and low debt.
- ✅Market leader in digital advertising and internet services.
- ✅Strong revenue growth from AI integration and cloud computing.
- ✅Waymo scaling: over 250,000 autonomous rides weekly in multiple cities.
- ✅Consistent earnings beats and high margins across business lines.
- ❌Persistent regulatory pressure and antitrust scrutiny, especially in Europe and the US.
- ❌Competition in artificial intelligence from major global tech firms remains intense.
Score- ✅Financially robust with over $95 billion in cash and low debt.
- ✅Market leader in digital advertising and internet services.
- ✅Strong revenue growth from AI integration and cloud computing.
- ✅Waymo scaling: over 250,000 autonomous rides weekly in multiple cities.
- ✅Consistent earnings beats and high margins across business lines.
Is Alphabet stock a buy right now?
- ✅Financially robust with over $95 billion in cash and low debt.
- ✅Market leader in digital advertising and internet services.
- ✅Strong revenue growth from AI integration and cloud computing.
- ✅Waymo scaling: over 250,000 autonomous rides weekly in multiple cities.
- ✅Consistent earnings beats and high margins across business lines.
- ❌Persistent regulatory pressure and antitrust scrutiny, especially in Europe and the US.
- ❌Competition in artificial intelligence from major global tech firms remains intense.
Score- ✅Financially robust with over $95 billion in cash and low debt.
- ✅Market leader in digital advertising and internet services.
- ✅Strong revenue growth from AI integration and cloud computing.
- ✅Waymo scaling: over 250,000 autonomous rides weekly in multiple cities.
- ✅Consistent earnings beats and high margins across business lines.
- What is Alphabet?
- How much is the Alphabet stock?
- Our full analysis of the Alphabet stock
- How to buy Alphabet stock in IE?
- Our 7 tips for buying Alphabet stock
- The latest news about Alphabet
- FAQ
What is Alphabet?
| Indicator | Value | Analysis |
|---|---|---|
| 🏳️ Nationality | United States | US-based, global reach and significant presence in Europe and Ireland. |
| 💼 Market | NASDAQ (GOOGL) | Listed on NASDAQ, providing strong liquidity for Irish and global investors. |
| 🏛️ ISIN code | US02079K3059 | Unique international identifier, necessary for Irish brokers and cross-border trading. |
| 👤 CEO | Sundar Pichai | Veteran leader, driving innovation in AI and cloud, ensuring strong strategic direction. |
| 🏢 Market cap | $2.09 trillion | Alphabet is among the most valuable companies, reflecting investor confidence and scale. |
| 📈 Revenue | $90.23 billion (Q1 2025) | Quarterly revenue grew 12% YoY, confirming strong ongoing business expansion. |
| 💹 EBITDA | $40.76 billion (Q1 2025, est.) | High EBITDA, driven by margin expansion and robust cloud and search performance. |
| 📊 P/E Ratio (Price/Earnings) | 19.2 (TTM) | Attractive valuation for the sector, with scope for growth and low relative risk. |
How much is the Alphabet stock?
The price of Alphabet stock is rising this week. As of now, shares trade at $171.86, reflecting a 1.96% gain over the past week but a slight decrease of 0.29% in the last 24 hours. Alphabet’s market capitalisation stands at $2.09 trillion, with an average three-month trading volume of 39.75 million shares. The price-to-earnings ratio is 19.20, and the dividend yield is 0.49%, while the stock’s beta is 1.01, indicating a level of volatility close to the overall market. With analyst consensus pointing to further growth potential, Alphabet’s recent movements offer both opportunity and a reminder of the dynamic nature of tech investing in the Irish market.
Compare the finest brokers in Ireland and find the best one for you!Compare brokersOur full analysis of the Alphabet stock
After reviewing Alphabet Inc.'s (GOOGL) latest financial results, dissecting stock performance over the past three years, and integrating a range of financial indicators, technical signals, market data, and competitive dynamics through our proprietary algorithms, a compelling narrative begins to emerge. The technological landscape is once again primed for structural evolution—and Alphabet appears strategically positioned at its vanguard. So, why might Alphabet stock once again become a strategic entry point into large-cap technology and innovative communications for 2025?
Recent Performance and Market Context
Alphabet has demonstrated remarkable resilience and adaptability in an evolving technology sector. Trading at $171.86 as of 30 May 2025, Alphabet’s share price reflects both recent volatility and opportunity. Over the past week, the stock recorded a 1.96% increase, bucking market consolidation and demonstrating short-term positive momentum. Over the last six months, shares edged up by 1.72%, while the year-to-date performance stands at -9.21%, situating Alphabet at the lower end of its 52-week range ($140.53–$207.05).
Recent historical underperformance relative to 2024 is best interpreted within the broader market context—characterized by sector rotation, cyclical risk-off sentiment, and a temporary recalibration following several years of outsized growth. Yet, this period of consolidation has set the stage for renewed upside, with macroeconomic headwinds fading and global technology adoption accelerating.
Key positives over the past quarter include a substantial earnings beat: Q1 2025 revenue hit $90.23 billion (vs. $89.12B expected), while net income surged 46% YoY. These performance figures underscore that Alphabet is not just weathering the prevailing environment but actively outpacing expectations.
On a sectoral level, digital advertising remains robust, cloud computing continues to grow at double-digit rates, and artificial intelligence integration is unlocking monetization avenues across Alphabet’s ecosystem. Against this backdrop, investor risk appetite for resilient, innovation-led platforms is once again returning—offering a timely backdrop for potential entry.
Technical Analysis
From a technical perspective, Alphabet displays a structure that increasingly favours a bullish thesis. The Relative Strength Index (RSI) is at 61.61, currently neutral but inching toward overbought—a classic signal of renewed demand without imminent risk of reversal. Meanwhile, the MACD (12,26,9) at 3.30 leans mildly bearish, but this appears more indicative of recent consolidation than an impending correction, particularly since moving averages remain robust.
| Moving Average | Value |
|---|---|
| 20-day SMA | $163.36 |
| 50-day SMA | $159.60 |
| 100-day SMA | $172.26 |
| 200-day SMA | $170.85 |
Notably, the current price is riding just above the 200-day SMA—a traditional demarcation between bear and bull territory. Such alignment is often interpreted as a signal that the stock may be emerging from a technical base and entering a new phase of accumulation.
Support is strong at $167.71, limiting near-term downside, while resistance sits at $175.19—a break above this level could catalyse a fresh rally. Technical consensus currently favours buyers (14 bullish, 5 neutral, 3 bearish), further reinforcing the perception that Alphabet’s risk-reward profile has improved and that the current price zone is an advantageous staging area for new positions.
Fundamental Analysis
Alphabet’s fundamentals remain a benchmark for the entire technology sector. In Q1 2025, revenue grew 12% year-over-year—an impressive feat for a company of this scale. Net income soared 46%, driven by operational efficiencies, robust advertising, and the ongoing buildout of higher-margin offerings such as cloud and AI.
| Key Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Google Cloud Revenue YoY growth | 28% |
| Google Cloud Margin | 17.8% (up from 9.4%) |
| AI Overviews Monthly Users | 1.5 billion |
| P/E Ratio | 19.20 |
| PEG Ratio | Well below sector average |
| Profit Margins | >30% |
| Return on Equity | 34.8% |
| Cash on Balance Sheet | $95.33 billion |
| Debt-to-Equity Ratio | 8.25% |
- Leading global share in search and digital advertising
- Unrivalled AI research and platform integration
- Diversified revenues across high-growth segments
- Brand equity that supports consistent profitability
This combination of growth, profitability, and financial stability justifies renewed interest from a value and growth perspective alike.
Volume and Liquidity
Market confidence in Alphabet remains robust, as evidenced by average daily trading volumes near 40 million shares—ample liquidity for institutional and private investors. While recent daily volumes have been slightly under the mean, this is typical in periods of technical consolidation and often precedes renewed price momentum.
Alphabet’s substantial free float ensures that dynamic valuation mechanisms work efficiently, enabling the stock to quickly price in new information and react to catalysts. This market depth is a cornerstone for both active and passive strategies, signalling strength and stability.
Catalysts and Positive Outlook
- Strategic Acquisitions: The ~$32 billion acquisition of Wiz positions Alphabet as an even stronger leader in cloud security, responding to institutional cloud migration trends and enterprise demand for advanced cybersecurity.
- AI Leadership: Google’s AI Overviews is expanding user engagement, while continued integration of advanced models across search, cloud, and ads sets the stage for outsized monetisation.
- Waymo Expansion: Waymo’s weekly autonomous rides have scaled beyond 250,000, reinforcing Alphabet’s advantage in the rapidly emerging autonomous vehicle market.
- Shareholder Returns: The board’s recent $70 billion share repurchase authorisation demonstrates confidence and provides a meaningful buoy for the share price.
- ESG Initiatives: Alphabet’s leadership in sustainability and responsible AI development bolsters its appeal among conscientious investors and large index providers.
From a sector perspective, the environment is supportive: technology is benefitting from resurgent enterprise investment, regulatory risk is largely factored into valuations, and technological adoption—particularly in AI and cloud—remains a non-discretionary budget priority for corporates in Ireland, Europe, and globally.
Investment Strategies
- Short-term: For momentum-driven investors, positioning ahead of a potential breakout above $175.19 could capture immediate upside as technical signals flip decisively bullish.
- Medium-term: Holding through the Q2 and Q3 reporting cycle may allow participation in the monetisation of AI momentum, uptake of the Wiz acquisition, and potential recalibration of analyst price targets.
- Long-term: Alphabet’s diversified business model, deep cash reserves, AI leadership, and margin expansion present a powerful thesis. Investors with longer time horizons may see current levels as a rare window to establish or add to positions in a global technology bellwether with fundamental valuation support and industry tailwinds.
Optimally, entry around the $168–$172 area aligns with major support levels, minimizing downside risk while maximizing exposure to near- and medium-term catalysts.
Is it the Right Time to Buy Alphabet?
Alphabet’s proposition in 2025 is defined by a unique convergence of compelling fundamentals, favourable technicals, and a series of imminent catalysts. The company is outperforming in core segments, accelerating profitable growth in cloud and AI, and wielding considerable optionality through its balance sheet and innovation pipeline. A valuation multiple that is muted relative to peers and history, combined with active capital returns and sector-leading competitive advantages, serves to amplify the allure.
The balance of evidence suggests that Alphabet may be entering a new bullish phase, with the fundamentals and the market context justifying serious consideration from investors seeking both stability and dynamism in their technology allocations. As the next stages of cloud, AI, and autonomous mobility unfold, Alphabet’s platform model and robust financial profile mean it seems to represent an excellent opportunity for those looking to capitalise on the ongoing digital transformation.
In sum, for investors attentive to value, growth, and innovation, Alphabet appears exceptionally well-positioned; current conditions indicate the stock may act as a springboard for the next cycle of technology-led returns.
How to buy Alphabet stock in IE?
Buying shares in Alphabet (GOOGL) online is straightforward and secure when you use a regulated broker registered in Ireland or the EU. Retail investors typically have two main ways to gain exposure: by buying physical shares (spot buying) or through contracts for difference (CFDs), which allow you to speculate on price movements without owning the underlying shares. Both options can be accessed and managed entirely online in just a few steps—making it easy to start investing or trading. To help you choose the most suitable provider, you’ll find a detailed broker comparison further down this page.
Spot buying
A cash purchase, or spot buying, means you are buying real Alphabet shares—giving you part ownership in the company, eligibility for dividends, and the right to vote at shareholder meetings. With most Irish-regulated brokers, you’ll pay a fixed commission per order. Typical fees are €3–€6 per trade, or about $5 if using a USD-denominated account. For example, with Alphabet trading at $171.86 per share, a €920 (around $1,000) investment (including a $5 fee) lets you purchase about 5.8 shares.
Gain scenario
If Alphabet’s share price rises by 10%, your holding would be worth roughly $1,100. That’s a gross gain of $100—an increase of +10% on your investment.
Trading via CFD
CFD trading lets you speculate on Alphabet’s price without owning the actual shares. Instead, you agree with a broker to settle the difference between the opening and closing price. CFDs often offer leverage (for example, 5x), meaning a €920 ($1,000) deposit gives you $5,000 in market exposure. CFD costs include a spread (the broker’s markup on buy/sell prices) and potentially overnight financing fees if the position is held open.
Gain scenario
If Alphabet’s share price rises by 8%, a 5x leveraged CFD position would return 8% × 5 = 40%—a $400 gain on your $1,000 stake (excluding any fees).
Final advice
Before investing, it’s crucial to compare broker fees and terms—transaction costs, currency conversion fees, and platform features can vary. The best method depends on your investment strategy: buy & hold investors may prefer cash purchasing, while those seeking short-term moves or leverage may consider CFDs. Find a comprehensive side-by-side broker comparison further down this page to help you make an informed choice.
Compare the finest brokers in Ireland and find the best one for you!Compare brokersOur 7 tips for buying Alphabet stock
| Step | Specific tip for Alphabet |
|---|---|
| Analyze the market | Review Alphabet’s strong Q1 2025 results and sector trends, focusing on AI, cloud computing, and digital advertising resilience. |
| Choose the right trading platform | Select an Irish-regulated broker that offers direct access to the NASDAQ and competitive FX fees for buying NASDAQ-listed stocks like Alphabet. |
| Define your investment budget | Set a clear budget, considering Alphabet’s share price and volatility, and diversify with other international tech shares to manage risk. |
| Choose a strategy (short or long term) | Prioritise a long-term approach to benefit from Alphabet’s growth in AI and cloud services, in line with analyst “Strong Buy” outlooks. |
| Monitor news and financial results | Track Alphabet’s quarterly reports and updates on major projects, as new tech initiatives and acquisitions can impact share value. |
| Use risk management tools | Use stop-loss orders and set realistic price targets to protect your capital, especially given moderate regulatory risks affecting tech stocks. |
| Sell at the right time | Consider selling when Alphabet achieves major price targets or before significant regulatory or macroeconomic events forecast heightened volatility. |
The latest news about Alphabet
Alphabet delivered a robust Q1 2025 earnings beat, with revenue and EPS surpassing analyst expectations. The company reported revenue of $90.23 billion, significantly ahead of the $89.12 billion consensus estimate, and earnings per share reached $2.81, well above the $2.01 anticipated by analysts. Noteworthy drivers included double-digit year-over-year revenue growth of 12% and a remarkable net income increase of 46% compared to the previous year. For investors in Ireland, this result highlights Alphabet’s resilience in the face of global macroeconomic challenges, emphasizing its diversified business model and capacity for consistent cash generation, both key factors that underpin confidence in the company’s long-term prospects on international markets.
Google Cloud’s revenues surged 28% year-over-year, with operating margins expanding to 17.8%, underscoring strategic strength in enterprise services. This growth was supported by a rapidly increasing demand for cloud and artificial intelligence solutions, areas of particular relevance to Ireland due to Alphabet’s significant footprint in the country. Google’s EMEA headquarters in Dublin is a central hub for its cloud operations and European customers, suggesting local engagement in Alphabet’s expansion efforts and the likelihood of positive knock-on effects for the Irish tech ecosystem and labor market, which are closely tied to the performance and growth strategies of global technology leaders.
Alphabet’s commitment to artificial intelligence innovation remains a strong positive catalyst, with AI Overviews now reaching 1.5 billion monthly users. This milestone signals substantial adoption and user engagement, which are critical for future monetization and product leadership. Given Ireland’s position as a tech hub and its regulatory environment shaping European data and digital markets, Alphabet’s advancements in AI both reinforce its competitive moat and align with the region’s growing emphasis on intelligent digital services—a trend that is closely watched by Irish analysts and institutional investors.
Recent analyst consensus continues to be highly favourable, with a “Strong Buy” rating and average price target implying approximately 15% upside potential. Prominent financial institutions and global equity strategists have reiterated their confidence in Alphabet’s fundamentals, pointing to consistent cash generation, an ongoing $70 billion share repurchase programme, and robust free cash flow of over $60 billion. For Irish market participants, these signals reinforce the stock’s appeal as a core holding in diversified global portfolios and support ongoing investor interest from major funds operating in or out of Ireland.
Technical analysis signals remain positive overall, with most moving averages indicating a buy and strong support levels above recent trading ranges. Despite a short-term MACD sell signal, the 20-, 50-, 100-, and 200-day simple moving averages all show buy signals, suggesting a constructive technical outlook. With the stock up nearly 2% over the past week and consensus technical rating pointing to bullish sentiment, these factors are especially salient for short- to medium-term positioning among Irish institutional investors and traders actively monitoring US-listed growth equities.
FAQ
What is the latest dividend for Alphabet stock?
Alphabet now pays a dividend, with an annual amount of $0.84 per share, equating to a current yield of approximately 0.49%. The company announced its maiden quarterly dividend earlier this year, marking a new step in shareholders’ return policy. This move reflects Alphabet’s strong financial position while maintaining a commitment to reinvesting in high-growth areas like AI and cloud.
What is the forecast for Alphabet stock in 2025, 2026, and 2027?
Based on Alphabet’s current share price of $171.86, the projected values are $223.42 at the end of 2025, $257.79 by the end of 2026, and $343.72 by the end of 2027. These optimistic forecasts are supported by robust earnings growth, sustained innovation in AI and cloud computing, and a strong analyst consensus endorsing Alphabet’s durable business model.
Should I sell my Alphabet shares?
Holding onto Alphabet shares may be prudent given the company’s solid fundamentals, history of innovation, and diversified revenue base across search, advertising, AI, and cloud services. Alphabet’s recent earnings growth, impressive margins, and analyst “Strong Buy” ratings suggest good long-term prospects. The company’s ongoing share buybacks and strong cash reserves further reinforce its strategic resilience.
How are dividends and capital gains from Alphabet stock taxed for Irish investors?
For Irish residents, Alphabet dividends are subject to 15% US withholding tax, with the remainder taxed at your marginal Irish income tax rate, due to the US-Ireland tax treaty. Capital gains from selling Alphabet shares are taxed at 33% under Irish Capital Gains Tax rules. Alphabet is not eligible for Irish tax wrappers like the EII or pension reliefs, so investors should factor in these tax liabilities when investing.
What is the latest dividend for Alphabet stock?
Alphabet now pays a dividend, with an annual amount of $0.84 per share, equating to a current yield of approximately 0.49%. The company announced its maiden quarterly dividend earlier this year, marking a new step in shareholders’ return policy. This move reflects Alphabet’s strong financial position while maintaining a commitment to reinvesting in high-growth areas like AI and cloud.
What is the forecast for Alphabet stock in 2025, 2026, and 2027?
Based on Alphabet’s current share price of $171.86, the projected values are $223.42 at the end of 2025, $257.79 by the end of 2026, and $343.72 by the end of 2027. These optimistic forecasts are supported by robust earnings growth, sustained innovation in AI and cloud computing, and a strong analyst consensus endorsing Alphabet’s durable business model.
Should I sell my Alphabet shares?
Holding onto Alphabet shares may be prudent given the company’s solid fundamentals, history of innovation, and diversified revenue base across search, advertising, AI, and cloud services. Alphabet’s recent earnings growth, impressive margins, and analyst “Strong Buy” ratings suggest good long-term prospects. The company’s ongoing share buybacks and strong cash reserves further reinforce its strategic resilience.
How are dividends and capital gains from Alphabet stock taxed for Irish investors?
For Irish residents, Alphabet dividends are subject to 15% US withholding tax, with the remainder taxed at your marginal Irish income tax rate, due to the US-Ireland tax treaty. Capital gains from selling Alphabet shares are taxed at 33% under Irish Capital Gains Tax rules. Alphabet is not eligible for Irish tax wrappers like the EII or pension reliefs, so investors should factor in these tax liabilities when investing.
