Organisation: Google

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Analysis and commentary by Echo Research.

The headlines, "Google earnings soar past estimates"(FT, 22/4) and the analysts' buoyant appraisal, "The quarter was nothing short of phenomenal"(David Garrity - Caris & Co, Times, 22/4), told nearly all of Google's, alias "the internet goliath"(sharecast.com, 25/4), recent story. Revenue doubled, profits climbed almost six-fold, there was an enthusiastic run on shares, together with dominant market share and a ticket to ride on one of the fastest growing advertising outlets. "There's Google, and then there's everyone else"(iii.co.uk, 22/4).

Google performed, and performed brilliantly. The company's shine lifted a weary Wall Street, "Google helps Wall Street to biggest gain in years"(Guardian (22/4). Things were so good that even CEO Eric Schmidt, didn't mind admitting: "Google is an amazing place"(Scotsman, 23/4).

The downside was … limited. Even the most prominent concern, that Google's monetary strength was based on a single revenue stream was addressed by the week's end. "Google to test new display ad service"(FT, 25/4). For those who sought to highlight an alleged u-turn in Google's advertising policy, The Business had a curt reply: "The most innovative and entrepreneurial companies are doing better than those that resist change or those that have gambled on a wrong strategy"(24/4).