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Mehta had pointed directly to ChatGPT's rise to 700 million weekly users, along with emerging rivals like Anthropic and Perplexity, as evidence that Google no longer holds an unchallenged monopoly.

The judge concluded that generative AI technologies could be "game changers," undermining the DOJ's demand that Google divest core businesses such as YouTube, Chrome, or Android. Ironically, ChatGPT — once considered a serious threat that prompted Google's internal "Code Red" — became proof in court that competition is intensifying in search, bolstering Google's defense.

Alphabet shares have climbed more than 30% year-to-date, doubling the Nasdaq Composite’s 15% gain.

Kurian noted that new customer sign-ups jumped 28% quarter-over-quarter, with nine of the 10 largest AI labs, including rivals OpenAI and Anthropic, choosing Google Cloud.

Although Google Cloud contributed just 14% of Alphabet's revenue last quarter, it remains one of the company's fastest-growing businesses, even outpacing Microsoft's Azure in recent quarters. Alphabet is also preparing to launch Google Cloud Universal Ledger (GCUL) in 2026, signaling ambitions in blockchain finance that could rival Ripple's XRP Ledger.

Additionally, Google Cloud is expanding automotive partnerships to power next-generation in-car experiences, further diversifying its growth drivers.

Under CEO Sundar Pichai, the company has faced intense regulatory scrutiny and mounting AI competition from OpenAI and Perplexity.

Still, Alphabet is betting on its Gemini AI models to secure its role in the fast-moving AI race while strengthening its dominance in search and advertising.

GOOGL Price Action: Alphabet shares were up 3.95% at $250.32 at the time of publication on Monday. The stock is trading at a new 52-week high, according to Benzinga Pro data.

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