Why Google is offering a 100-year bond

Core Viewpoint - Alphabet, Google's parent company, is entering the bond market with a 100-year bond, raising approximately $32 billion across multiple bond deals in various currencies, with a small portion of £1 billion dedicated to the century bond [1][2]. Group 1: Bond Characteristics - Century bonds are long-term debt instruments, with Alphabet's bond maturing in 2126, appealing to investors like pension funds and insurers who seek steady long-term payments [1][4]. - The bond market operates on the principle that bond prices and yields move inversely; as bond prices increase, yields decrease, and vice versa [8][9]. Group 2: Rationale for Borrowing - Despite having substantial cash reserves, Alphabet is opting to borrow due to the high costs associated with AI infrastructure development, taking advantage of historically low interest rates for flexible funding [5]. - Historical context shows that century bonds are not new, with previous issuances by companies like Coca-Cola and Motorola, indicating a trend in long-term financing strategies [6]. Group 3: Market Implications - Future observations should focus on demand for similar long-term tech bond offerings, pricing dynamics, and the narrative surrounding AI's transition from buildout to revenue generation, which could impact both stock and bond markets [10][11]. - The historical context of tech companies during the dot-com boom suggests that while cash-rich firms may not capture significant upside, they can experience prolonged downturns, a consideration for Alphabet's strategy [12].