Google

The UK’s CMA has designated Google with “strategic market status” for its search and advertising services after a nine-month investigation, granting the regulator new powers to potentially reshape Google’s operations. The CMA is concerned Google’s dominance may stifle competition and innovation, potentially requiring fairer search rankings and increased transparency. Google acknowledges the designation, but cautions against overly restrictive regulations that could hinder innovation and growth, especially in AI. The CMA’s move balances promoting competition and fostering an environment for investment, while Google emphasizes its contribution to the UK economy.

Google is modifying its “Work from Anywhere” (WFA) policy, limiting remote work outside the primary office location. Now, even a single day of remote work counts as a full week against the four-week annual allowance. This shift, implemented earlier this summer, doesn’t affect their hybrid work arrangement but restricts employees from using WFA for working from home or Google offices in different regions due to legal and financial considerations. This change aligns with a broader industry trend of tech companies pushing for increased in-office presence. The updated policy has sparked internal debate, with some employees finding the new rules “confusing”.

Google is shifting its content moderation policies towards “free expression,” as evidenced by YouTube’s decision to reinstate accounts previously banned for COVID-19 and 2020 election misinformation. This reversal of its prior commitment to accuracy comes amidst regulatory scrutiny and follows similar actions by Meta. Google emphasizes user empowerment through tools like SynthID and Community Notes, while distancing itself from external fact-checkers. Alphabet’s legal counsel highlighted the Biden administration’s attempts to influence content moderation, underscoring Google’s commitment to free expression even amidst political pressure.

Google is investing £5 billion ($6.8 billion) to boost the UK’s AI infrastructure, including a new data center near London to support its AI-driven services. This investment, coinciding with President Trump’s UK visit, is expected to create 8,250 jobs annually and contribute significantly to the UK economy. The strategy involves DeepMind’s AI research and a collaboration with Shell for renewable energy supply, aligning with the UK’s sustainability goals. Alphabet anticipates AI to add £400 billion to the UK economy by 2030.

President Trump threatens a Section 301 trade investigation against the EU in response to “discriminatory fines” levied on U.S. tech giants Google and Apple. This follows the EU’s antitrust fine of nearly $3.5 billion on Google and ongoing scrutiny of Apple’s tax practices, including a $14 billion back tax bill in Ireland. Trump argues the EU unfairly penalizes American companies, impacting U.S. investments and jobs, and vows to nullify these penalties. The move could escalate trade tensions and impact the tech sector.

The EU Commission has fined Google €2.95 billion for anti-competitive practices in its adtech business, alleging the company favored its own services, disadvantaging rivals and distorting the market. The EU requires Google to cease these practices within 60 days and address conflicts of interest. Google disputes the findings, plans to appeal, and argues its services benefit the market. This decision could force Google to restructure its adtech business in Europe and sets a precedent globally for antitrust actions against dominant tech platforms.

Alphabet’s stock surged to a record high after a U.S. court ruling favored Google, allowing it to retain Chrome, Android, and its practice of paying Apple to be the default search engine. Analysts revised their outlook, with JPMorgan Chase and Bank of America raising price targets. Apple’s stock also benefited due to continued payments from Google. The decision removes regulatory uncertainty, enabling Google to maintain dominance and pursue AI innovation, solidifying its position in the tech landscape; however, ongoing antitrust concerns remain a risk.

Alphabet (GOOG) shares rose after a favorable outcome in a landmark antitrust case. While the court affirmed Google’s illegal search monopoly, the judge rejected the DOJ’s proposal to divest Chrome. Google retains Chrome ownership and can compensate device manufacturers for preloading apps but is restricted from exclusive contracts contingent on exclusivity. Google’s agreement with Apple remains under scrutiny. Analysts believe the market’s positive reaction reflects relief that Google avoided a breakup. Focus now turns to remedies and their impact on competition.

A U.S. judge ruled that Google can continue paying Apple billions annually to remain the default search engine on iPhones. Apple shares surged after-hours following the decision. While stemming from a broader antitrust trial against Google, the ruling significantly impacts Apple’s revenue. The judge prohibited Google from exclusive contracts but stopped short of a complete payment ban, allowing potential renegotiation. Google can’t bundle Android services with Search. The DOJ antitrust suit alleged Google used exclusionary practices. Google intends to appeal, potentially leading to further trials and appeals.

Reliance Industries announced significant AI partnerships with Google and Meta at its annual shareholders’ meeting. Reliance will leverage Google’s AI and cloud infrastructure, including a new dedicated cloud region in India powered by clean energy. A joint venture with Meta focuses on delivering AI solutions tailored for Indian businesses, with a $100 million investment. Mukesh Ambani also indicated plans to list Reliance Jio publicly in the first half of 2026. These moves underscore the importance of the Indian market for global tech giants.