Alphabet, Microsoft, and Meta revealed plans to boost annual capital expenditures as they expand AI and data center operations. While all three posted strong revenue growth, investors responded most positively to Alphabet, sending its shares up 7.3% in premarket trading, compared with declines for Microsoft and Meta.
Analysts highlight Alphabet’s ability to fund $23.95 billion in September-quarter capital spending, covering 49% of cash from operations, as a key advantage. Meta’s and Microsoft’s spending consumed 64.6% and 77.5% of cash flow, respectively, raising investor concerns.
Executives emphasized that increased AI infrastructure investment is critical to meet growing demand. Strong cash flow allows companies like Alphabet to invest aggressively in AI while managing financial risk, a contrast to peers facing tighter spending pressures.
