Microsoft's Hypocritical Attack Could Weigh on Google Stock

Remember when peers accused Microsoft of abusing its monopoly power? The tide has turned, and now Mr. Softy is leading a group called the FairSearch Initiative that aims to persuade European regulators to take antitrust action against Google .

Among other things, the 17 companies involved -- including Nokia and Oracle -- accuse Google of "predatory distribution" of the free Android operating system, USA Today reports. The strategy hurts providers of alternative OSes such as Windows Phone and BlackBerry , the group claims.

Does the charge have merit? Android's 70% share of the market last year seems certainly seems to be helping Google stock, which is up more than 22% over the past year. An adverse ruling could change that, sending shares of Google stock sharply lower.

In the following interview with The Motley Fool's Erin Miller, Tim Beyers of Motley Fool Rule Breakers and Motley Fool Supernova says regulators aren't likely to impose stiff penalties. He also expects Google stock to rally. Please watch this short video, and then leave a comment to let us know what you think about the search king's strategy and competitiveness.

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The article Microsoft's Hypocritical Attack Could Weigh on Google Stock originally appeared on Fool.com.

Fool contributor Tim Beyers is a member of the Motley Fool Rule Breakers stock-picking team and the Motley Fool Supernova Odyssey I mission. He owned shares of Google at the time of publication. Check out Tim's Web home and portfolio holdings, or connect with him on Google+, Tumblr, or Twitter, where he goes by @milehighfool. You can also get his insights delivered directly to your RSS reader.Erin Miller has no position in any stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool recommends Google and owns shares of Google, Microsoft, and Oracle.. Try any of our Foolish newsletter services free for 30 days. We Fools don't all hold the same opinions, but we all believe that considering a diverse range of insights makes us better investors. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.

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