If you want voting rights and a say in Alphabet’s decisions, Class A (GOOGL) shares are the choice since they provide one vote per share. Class C (GOOG) shares don’t offer voting rights but represent the same ownership and usually trade at a slight discount. Both classes have similar historical returns and ownership stakes. Your decision depends on whether influence or lower cost matters more. The next section explains key differences and investment considerations.
Understanding Alphabet’s Dual-Class Share Structure
Although Alphabet offers two main types of publicly traded shares, Class A (GOOGL) and Class C (GOOG), their differences lie primarily in voting rights rather than ownership stakes.
Class A shares grant you one vote per share, while Class C shares come without voting rights. This dual-class structure allows Alphabet’s founders to maintain insider control, even as the company issues new shares to raise capital.
Both GOOGL and GOOG represent equal ownership in Alphabet, but only Class A shares provide a voice in company decisions. Understanding this setup is key to appreciating how Alphabet balances control with investor freedom.
Key Differences Between Class A and Class C Shares
When comparing Alphabet’s Class A (GOOGL) and Class C (GOOG) shares, the primary difference lies in voting rights.
Class A shares grant you voting rights, letting you influence corporate policies and board elections. In contrast, Class C shares don’t offer any voting power.
GOOGL shares often trade at a premium due to these rights, while GOOG shares typically come with a discount.
Both represent ownership in Alphabet and offer similar investment opportunities, as their historical returns closely match.
If having a say in company decisions matters to you, Class A shares might be your preferred choice.
Voting Rights and Their Impact on Shareholder Influence
Since Alphabet’s Class A shares (GOOGL) come with voting rights, they give you direct influence over key company decisions, such as board elections and executive policies.
This shareholder influence lets you participate in corporate governance, including decisions on executive compensation.
In contrast, GOOG shares (Class C) lack voting rights, limiting your say.
The dual-class share structure balances founder control with capital raising through non-voting shares.
Because of these voting rights, GOOGL shares often trade at a slight premium, impacting stock price dynamics.
Choosing Class A shares means securing your voice in Alphabet’s future, aligning ownership with control.
Price Performance and Investment Considerations
Understanding the differences in price performance between Alphabet’s Class A (GOOGL) and Class C (GOOG) shares can help you make informed investment decisions.
Both classes show similar returns, with GOOGL at 113% and GOOG slightly ahead at 114.74% over five years. As of November 2025, their prices are nearly identical, though GOOGL typically trades at a premium due to voting rights.
GOOGL also enjoys higher trading volume and better liquidity, which may affect your ability to buy or sell quickly. These factors are key investment considerations when choosing between Class A and Class C shares.
Which Share Class Aligns Best With Your Investment Goals?
How do your investment priorities shape the choice between Alphabet’s Class A and Class C shares?
If having voting rights to influence corporate decisions matters, Class A (GOOGL) shares suit you best. They let shareholders engage in governance, fitting an active investment strategy.
Conversely, Class C (GOOG) shares lack voting rights but often come at a lower price, appealing if you prefer ownership without direct control.
Both share classes show similar returns, but GOOGL’s higher trading volume offers better liquidity.
Consider Alphabet’s dual-class structure carefully to match your goals with the right balance of control and cost.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should You Buy Class a or Class C Shares?
You should buy Class A if voting rights matter for your investment strategy; choose Class C for cost efficiency. Both offer strong stock performance and long-term gains, so align with your financial goals and risk tolerance amid market trends.
Is It Better to Buy Alphabet Class a or C?
You’ll prefer Class A for Alphabet voting rights and shareholder influence, boosting long-term potential. Class C’s disadvantages include no votes but often lower prices. Align your investment strategies with risk assessment, market trends, and company growth.
Is It Better to Buy GOOG or GOOGL?
You should buy GOOGL for voting rights and shareholder benefits if your investment strategy values influence and long-term growth. Choose GOOG for slightly better price and similar stock performance, matching market trends and risk assessment.
Should I Invest in Class a or Class C?
You should choose based on your investment strategies and preferences: pick Class A for voting rights and influence, or Class C for cost-effectiveness. Both show strong company performance, so assess market trends and diversify for long-term growth and risk balance.
