Alphabet Inc. Pauses Buybacks Amid Rising Debt and Spending

Alphabet Inc. is facing significant financial pressure driven by escalating capital expenditures and rising long-term debt, which has reached $125.1 billion. The company reported a negative free cash flow of $9.1 billion for the third quarter.

To manage these risks, the company paused share buybacks and continues to sell shares, a move that increases the risk of dilution for investors. Alphabet set its capital expenditure guidance for 2026 between $195 billion and $205 billion, with expectations that spending will increase further in 2027.