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Alphabet, Google’s parent company, has unveiled plans to secure up to $80 billion (€68.7bn) in fresh capital to support its growing AI ambitions, underlining the enormous financial commitments now required in the new technological race.
The company stated on Monday that the proceeds will help expand its AI infrastructure and global computing network, as demand from businesses and consumers increasingly exceeds existing capacity.
A key element of the capital raise is a $10 billion (€8.6bn) private placement from Berkshire Hathaway, the conglomerate associated with veteran investor Warren Buffett.
The agreement includes purchases of both Alphabet Class A and Class C shares.
The broader fundraising package also includes approximately $30 billion (€25.7bn) through public offerings and a further $40 billion (€34.3bn) through an at-the-market share sale programme expected to begin later this year.
According to company disclosures, a significant portion of the proceeds will be directed towards AI-related capital expenditure, while part of the at-the-market programme is expected to support obligations linked to employee equity awards.
The announcement represents a notable shift for a company that has historically generated substantial cash flows and maintained a strong balance sheet.
Analysts have increasingly pointed to the growing capital intensity of the AI sector, where technology companies are spending unprecedented sums on computing infrastructure.
Investors weigh opportunities and risks
While the fundraising announcement demonstrates confidence in long-term AI demand, it also raises questions about returns on investment and shareholder dilution.
Alphabet shares fell around 2.5% in after-hours trading following the announcement, reflecting investor scrutiny of the scale of spending required to remain competitive.
Nevertheless, Berkshire Hathaway’s participation is likely to be viewed by many investors as a significant endorsement of Alphabet’s strategy.
With AI becoming the dominant battleground in global technology, the company’s capital raise underscores the extent to which access to computing infrastructure is now shaping corporate priorities.