Gartner's Prediction of 25% Decline in Search Traffic Could Spell Trouble for Google Stock
A Lurch in Search
My first reaction when I read Gartner's prediction was to rub my eyes and read it again. I thought that perhaps I misread the percentage and/or the year. But I hadn't. Gartner really is arguing that a massive decline in traditional search engine volume is on the way soon.
AI Disruption in the Market
Gartner believes that AI chatbots and virtual agents powered by generative AI will disrupt the search engine market and do so with breathtaking speed. Antin thinks companies will be forced to reevaluate their advertising and marketing strategies because of this rapid upheaval.
Future of Google Stock
For search engine traffic to plunge 25% by 2026, the drop would probably have to begin soon -- either later this year or next year. Based on Gartner's prediction, avoiding Google stock like the plague would almost certainly be the best approach for investors.
Not So Fast
Before you rush to sell your Alphabet shares, take a deep breath. Extraordinary claims require extraordinary proof. A statement that search engine traffic will plummet 25% by 2026 is an extraordinary claim. So far, however, there are no signs this decline is occurring.
This article was prepared using information from open sources in accordance with the principles of Ethical Policy. The editorial team is not responsible for absolute accuracy, as it relies on data from the sources referenced.