(WSJ.Com)

Google Inc. (GOOG) is open to making large and small strategic acquisitions now that the worst of the economic crisis has passed, the Internet search company’s chief executive said Thursday.

“We’re open for business, making strategic acquisitions, both large and small,” Eric Schmidt said during a conference call with analysts. Schmidt’s comments came as the company reported third-quarter results that topped Wall Street expectations.

Schmidt previously said the company was once again in a buying mood, but his earlier comments seemed to downplay the prospect that Google would be willing to consider large deals.