Alphabet Stock Rises Despite EU’s $3.4B Antitrust Fine Amid Trump’s Warnings

Alphabet Inc. (GOOGL) shares climbed higher today even as the European Union imposed a $3.47 billion antitrust fine on the tech giant for alleged anti-competitive practices in digital advertising. The penalty directly contradicts former U.S. President Donald Trump's repeated warnings to EU regulators against targeting American big tech firms.

EU competition chief Teresa Ribera stated Google abused its dominant position in adtech, harming publishers, advertisers, and consumers. The investigation, ongoing since 2021, led to a 2023 recommendation that Google divest part of its ad services to ensure fair competition. Google maintains the decision is flawed and plans to appeal, arguing the ruling will harm European businesses and that ample alternatives to its services exist.

This marks Google's third regulatory setback within a week, following a separate $425 million U.S. jury verdict against the company. The persistent legal challenges highlight growing global scrutiny of tech monopolies, though markets appear to discount the immediate financial impact on Alphabet's robust balance sheet.