Alphabet Inc.

Alphabet’s moats are broad and enduring. Google Search remains the clear global leader (80–90% market share)), creating a powerful network effect: more users and advertisers reinforce each other. YouTube similarly benefits from two-sided network effects (users and creators).

These businesses leverage strong brands, huge data troves and proprietary AI technology. The AlphaSpread analysis notes Alphabet’s “dominance in search, digital advertising, and AI-driven services provides strong pricing power and high barriers to entry”. In addition, Android and other scalable platforms further cement ecosystem lock-in.

Overall, multiple moats (intangible brand, network effects, economies of scale and high switching costs) combine to secure a wide, durable moat around Alphabet’s core businesses.