| Stock | Price | 52 Week Range | Marketcap | EPS | Dividend Yield | Chart (24H) | Sector | Employees | Last Updated |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $0.0000 | 0.0000 | 0.00 | 0.00% | 0 | 6 years ago | ||||
 Alphabet Inc. GOOGL | $174.67 | 2.13T | 8.96 | 0.48% | Communication Services | 181,269 | 2 days ago |
In the competitive race of the internet age, only those companies that can diversify and evolve are poised to thrive. The internet landscape is no longer just about providing connectivity or simple search capabilities; it’s about becoming one-stop entertainment hubs. Companies that can offer a range of services—from news and gaming to videos and mobile integration—are the ones leading the march towards robust sales and earnings growth. In this edition of Market Monitors, we delve into why leading internet companies that have turned into entertainment conglomerates present compelling investment opportunities.
Exciting claims within the financial community highlight this trend: multi-service offering companies like AOL, Google, and Yahoo are topping analyst ratings due to their diverse service portfolios and impressive growth trajectories. Let’s break down why these three internet titans should be on your “must-buy” list today.
Editor's Note: Analysis and insight for this article were originally sourced from our friends at InvestorPlace
1. AOL: The Underestimated Contender
AOL (AOL): From Dial-Up Dinosaur to Digital Dynamo
AOL, which is now part of Yahoo, has undergone one of the most impressive transformations in recent memory. Originally known for its connectivity services, AOL pivoted dramatically to become a full-spectrum internet and mobile entertainment entity. The company struck out on its own after separating from Time Warner, embarking on aggressive rebranding and portfolio expansion campaigns. Today, AOL offers a rich array of services, including news, gaming, and various entertainment platforms.
Analyst Sentiment
Despite being often underestimated, AOL has consistently shown significant improvements. Analysts have taken note, revising their future earnings projections upward for both 2013 and 2014. With strong fundamentals and a B-grade rating in Portfolio Grader, AOL has caught the eye of keen investors. Securing a “buy” or even a “strong buy” rating, the stock reflects the potential for continued growth and investor returns. If you’ve been scanning the market for an undervalued gem poised for a strong comeback, AOL should be in your portfolio.
Analyst Ratings for AOL
| Info | Value |
| Consensus Rating | Hold |
| Average Price Target | No data available. |
| Current Price | $50.28 |
| Potential Gain (based on a 10% increase from current price) | 5.03% |
| Number of Ratings | 0 |
Summary of Analysts’ Outlook:
The consensus rating for AOL is “Hold” based on the average recommendation of 0 analysts. The current price of AOL is $50.28, but there’s no available data on projected stock price, revenue, earnings per share, or price target for AOL. This lack of detailed data makes it challenging to provide a clear outlook for AOL’s performance.
2. Google (Alphabet Inc.): The Diversification Powerhouse
Google (GOOGL): Dominance Across Multiple Markets
Google, now operating under the parent company Alphabet Inc., continues to set the bar for diversified success. Initially making its name as the world’s preeminent search engine, Google has expanded its reach and capabilities dramatically. From launching the Android OS and dominating the browser market with Chrome, to owning YouTube, Google is a conglomerate of highly interconnected services. Its aggressive ad network and continuous updates ensure that users remain engaged across all its platforms.
Financial Strength
This comprehensive diversification strategy has led to consistent revenue and profit growth. Recognized in Portfolio Grader with a robust “buy” rating, Google’s financial statements reflect its unyielding growth trajectory. The company’s ability to roll out new products and maintain a powerful mobile presence guarantees ongoing attractiveness for investors. If solid financial strength and innovative output are what you’re after, Google’s stock remains a shining choice in the tech sector.
Analyst Ratings for Google
| Consensus Rating | Strong Buy |
| Average Price Target | $195.6 |
| Current Price | $190.6 |
| Potential Gain | +2.35% |
| Number of Ratings | 58 |
Summary of Analysts’ Outlook:
The consensus among analysts for Alphabet Inc. (GOOGL/GOOG) is overwhelmingly positive, with a strong buy rating. The average price target for the stock is around $195.6, indicating a potential gain of around 2.35% from the current price of $190.6. This consensus is based on the ratings of multiple analysts, including JPMorgan, Goldman Sachs, and Morgan Stanley, among others.
3. Yahoo: Reinventing with Acquisitions
Yahoo (YHOO): Renaissance Driven by Bold Expansions
Yahoo’s strategy of aggressive diversification has also paid off immensely. The company expanded its entertainment scope by acquiring prominent platforms like Tumblr. Yahoo’s compelling services in areas such as sports coverage, fantasy sports, and finance have maintained its significant user traffic. This consistent user engagement reflects positively in the company’s financial metrics.
Market Recognition
Yahoo has delivered four consecutive quarters of positive earnings surprises, outpacing market expectations and solidifying its reputation. With an “A” rating in Portfolio Grader, Yahoo’s stock is rated as a “strong buy” due to its impressive fundamentals. Amidst a sea of competitors, Yahoo stands out due to its strategic acquisitions and robust service offerings. For the savvy investor, Yahoo represents a lucrative investment opportunity backed by sustained financial performance.
Analyst Ratings for Yahoo
| Consensus Rating | Strong Buy |
| Average Price Target | $229.15 |
| Current Price | $201.90 |
| Potential Gain | +13.6% |
| Number of Ratings | 43 |
Summary of Analysts’ Outlook:
Analysts have a favorable outlook for Yahoo due to its strong financial performance and strategic decisions. The consensus rating of “Strong Buy” indicates that analysts are highly optimistic about the company’s future growth and profitability.
The evidence is compelling and clear: AOL, Google, and Yahoo are not only internet leaders but are evolving into entertainment moguls. The transformation into multi-service platforms has resulted in outstanding financial metrics and made them highly attractive to both analysts and investors. As they continue to dominate their respective niches, these companies are showing no signs of slowing down, making them urgent buys for any serious investor looking for robust returns.
