YouTube ‘obvious math’ problem as revenue slows from pandemic highs

Throughout the pandemic, YouTube was one of Google’s main economic engines, benefiting from a surge in video consumption from people stuck at home trying to stay entertained.

All that growth has morphed into a challenge for Google, as the company now faces tough year-over-year comparisons at the very moment that advertisers are pulling back on spending due to concerns about the economy.

Alphabet reported weaker-than-expected second quarter earnings on Tuesday, and the most glaring disappointment came from YouTube. Revenue increased just 4.8% from a…