Alphabet has two share classes

When buying Alphabet stock, you'll choose between GOOGL (Class A) and GOOG (Class C). Both represent the same company and equity ownership, but they differ in voting rights.

GOOGL gives you voting power

GOOGL Class A shares grant one vote per share in shareholder decisions. This voting right is what sets them apart from Class C shares.

“GOOGL refers to Class A shares or common stock, which carry shareholder voting rights”

GOOG has no voting rights

GOOG Class C shares give you the same ownership stake as GOOGL but without any voting power in shareholder decisions.

“GOOG refers to Class C shares. These confer the same amount of ownership over Alphabet's equity, but they don't give you any voting rights.”

GOOG trades at a slight discount

Because GOOG lacks voting rights, it typically costs less than GOOGL. On September 18, GOOGL closed at $349.54 while GOOG closed at $344.41.

“on 18 September GOOGL closed at $349.54 while GOOG closed at $344.41”

Long-term returns are nearly identical

Over five years to September 18, GOOGL gained 148% while GOOG gained 143%. Both share classes also offer similar dividend yields around 0.25%.

“GOOGL gained 148% in the five years to 18 September, compared to GOOG's 143%”

Choose based on your priorities

Buy GOOGL if you want shareholder voting rights. Buy GOOG if you don't care about voting and prefer the slightly lower price. Your platform may only offer one class anyway.

Class B shares exist but aren't public

Alphabet has a third share class, Class B, held only by company insiders. Each Class B share carries ten votes, giving senior leadership majority control while still allowing public capital raising.

“Class B shares are held by company insiders, mostly its senior leadership. They convey ten votes per share”