Innovation activity of the largest companies in the high-tech sector

Aim. To analyze the specific features of innovation activity of the largest transnational companies of the high-tech sector in order to identify general trends and assess their efficiency.Objectives. To study the expenditures on innovation in Alphabet, Apple, Microsoft and Amazon; to determine the ratio of expenditures on research and development (R&D) to total revenue and the share of innovation in total expenditures; to examine the market capitalization and the share of private investors in the ownership of shares of these companies; to analyze the share of intangible assets in total assets; to assess the intensity of innovation activity by the number of issued patents; to identify the general characteristics of innovative companies-leaders of the high-tech sectorMethods. This study utilizes financial indicators, statistical data and data on patent activity of Alphabet, Apple, Microsoft Corporation and Amazon.Results. The largest high-tech companies achieve improved innovation performance through a combination of understanding customer needs, active participation of management in the research and development program, and the creation of unique products and services based on new technologies. Financial success depends on successfully utilizing existing intellectual resources, creating long-term customer relationships, and fostering the development of human capital within companies. Companies that focus on customer satisfaction and continuously stimulate employee development demonstrate higher innovation performance and ensure commercial success in the market.Conclusions. The comparative analysis of the indicators of the largest transnational companies in the high-tech sector allows us to assess the efficiency of innovation activity, as well as to identify the key factors contributing to their sustainable development in a highly competitive market.