Google Inc. snapped up YouTube Inc. for $1.65 billion today in deal that catapults the Internet search leader to a leading role in the online video revolution.
The all-stock acquisition unites one of the Internet's marquee companies with one of its rapidly rising stars. The price makes YouTube, a still-unprofitable startup, by far the most expensive purchase made by Google during its eight-year history. Although some cynics have questioned YouTube's staying power, Google is betting that the popular Web site will provide it an increasingly lucrative marketing hub as more viewers and advertisers migrate from television to the Internet. "We are natural partners to offer a compelling media entertainment service to users, content owners and advertisers," said Eric Schmidt, Google's chief executive officer.
YouTube will continue to retain its brand, as well as all 67 employees, including co-founders Chad Hurley and Steve Chen.
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