Google asks US judge to pause order forcing it to share search data with rivals while it appeals

What happened

Alphabet’s Google asked a US judge to delay enforcement of a remedy that would require it to share certain data with competitors while it appeals a ruling that found Google has an illegal monopoly in online search. Google said sharing data could expose trade secrets in a way that can’t be undone if it later wins on appeal, but it’s willing to comply with other parts of the remedies (like limiting some app-preload contracts to 1 year). Antitrust enforcers have until February 3, 2026 to decide whether to appeal the judge’s rejection of stronger remedies (such as forcing sales like Chrome or restricting default-search payments to partners like $AAPL).

Why markets care

If data-sharing remedies move forward (or if tougher remedies return on appeal), the “moat” around Google search could narrow. That can shift share in search, AI assistants, and digital advertising, while also changing the economics of default placement deals and the flow of traffic to publishers.

Winners

1. Search challengers and AI assistants

Benefit if Google’s data advantage shrinks and rivals can improve answers, ranking, and models.

Names: $MSFT (Microsoft), $META (Meta Platforms)

2. Digital ad platforms outside Google

Ad budgets diversify if search competition increases and advertisers spread spend across more walled gardens and open-web buying

Names: $AMZN (Amazon), $TTD (The Trade Desk)

3. Ad measurement and verification

More fragmentation typically increases demand for independent measurement, brand safety, and cross-platform verification

Names: $IAS (Integral Ad Science), $DV (DoubleVerify)

Losers

1. Google search and ads

Regulatory remedies risk margin pressure, product constraints, and a weaker data flywheel.

Names: $GOOGL (Alphabet Class A), $GOOG (Alphabet Class C)

2. Default-search economics and distribution rents

If regulators push harder on “default” agreements, partners that get paid for placement can face revenue risk.

Names: $AAPL (Apple), $VZ (Verizon)

3. Publishers dependent on Google referral traffic

Changes to search, ranking, or syndicated results can create traffic volatility and ad-revenue uncertainty.

Names: $NYT (The New York Times), $NWSA (News Corporation Class A)

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