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Alphabet Explores Streaming Video Space, Launches YouTube TV

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Rumors regarding the launch of Alphabet Inc.’s (GOOGL - Free Report) own streaming-video service have been doing the rounds for the past few months. The public announcement was finally made yesterday at an event held in Los Angeles.

Though the news didn’t move the needle much for the stock (closed at 844.93, down 0.6%), over the last six months, the stock has outperformed the Zacks Internet-Services industry. It returned 6% compared to the industry’s gain of 4%.

The Service

Known as YouTube TV, the subscription-service will offer over 40 channels alongside YouTube videos and YouTube Red original content for $35 a month.

Alphabet reached agreements with CBS, ABC, NBC and Twenty-First Century Fox for the purpose of programming for this new service.

In addition, there are 35 affiliated cable channels including ESPN, MSNBC, Disney Channel, National Geographic and Fox News.

Strengths

The biggest differentiator seems to be the cloud-based DVR component that allows unlimited storage in the cloud for up to nine months.

Not to forget the low price point that includes up to six accounts, each of which comprises a profile, personalized recommendations and a personal library. A member’s experience will not get disturbed by the preferences of others.

Other facilities include live programming and fast-forwarding on pre-recorded shows to skip ads.

Loopholes

Alphabet didn’t strike deals with cable networks like Discovery, Turner, Viacom, A&E and AMC, which means that subscribers are missing out on History, Comedy Central, HBO, CNN, TNT, TBS, AMC and so on.

Though YouTube unveiled plans to expand the service as quickly as possible, viewers from only those places will able to tune in where YouTube offers full live local broadcast feeds. There are no international expansion plans currently.

Alphabet Inc. PEG Ratio (TTM)

The Big Picture

YouTube TV underscores Alphabet’s continuous efforts to launch products and services for multiple industries.

With the new move, Google is entering a crowded and highly competitive market marked by the presence of AT&T’s (T - Free Report) DirecTV Now, Dish Network’s Sling TV and Sony’s PlayStation Vue.

The company appears to have its strategy in place. The price of less than $40 a month will certainly place its competitors in a spot of bother.

As the company generates significant cash from operations and also holds a huge cash balance, management has the flexibility to pursue growth in any area that exhibits true potential. This flexibility, along with its technological prowess allows it to pursue opportunities in different markets, offsetting the late-mover disadvantage.

Alphabet is leaving no stone unturned in the process of growing.

Currently Alphabet carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold). You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.

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