Meta Platforms: Where the Stock Is Heading After a Mixed Close

Meta Platforms, Inc. (NASDAQ: META) closed the latest trading session at USD 668.69, slipping ‑0.30 %. In the after‑hours market the shares rallied to USD 671.45, a gain of +0.41 %. Analysts on MarketScreener give Meta a “Buy” consensus with an average target price of USD 859.85, implying a potential upside of +28.59 %.

Key Business Drivers

  • Social networking & messaging: 98.9 % of Meta’s net revenue comes from platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, Messenger, Threads and WhatsApp.
  • Hardware (VR/AR): The remaining 1.1 % stems from devices like Meta Quest, Portal and other wearables.
  • Advertising revenue: 98.7 % of total earnings are generated from ad sales, underscoring the importance of ad‑tech innovations.
  • Geographic mix: The United States & Canada contribute 39.2 % of revenue, followed by Asia‑Pacific (26.8 %), Europe (23.2 %) and the rest of the world (10.8 %).

Future Trends Shaping Meta’s Growth

1. Massive Data‑Center Build‑Out in the United States

Meta announced a 1‑gigawatt data center in Indiana and later confirmed a USD 10 billion investment for a second Indiana facility. These projects aim to power Meta’s AI‑driven services and reduce latency for its global user base.

Did you know? A 1‑GW data center can supply enough electricity to run roughly 800,000 average U.S. Homes.

2. AI‑Infused Features on Facebook

Meta has begun rolling out new AI‑powered tools on Facebook, as reported by Reuters via MarketScreener. These features promise smarter content recommendations, automated moderation and enhanced ad targeting – all of which could boost the already dominant ad revenue stream.

3. Regulatory Scrutiny and Legal Risks

Recent headlines highlight Meta’s exposure to legal challenges: the Instagram chief is set to testify on the platform’s design and its impact on youth mental health (Reuters), while South Korean authorities have opened an investigation into Instagram account deletions (MT Newswires). These developments could shape Meta’s compliance costs and public perception.

4. Market Hours and Trading Rhythm

Wall Street’s regular trading window runs from 9:30 a.m. To 4:00 p.m. Eastern Time, which translates to 15:30‑22:00 in Italy (BorsaTrader). A pre‑market session (14:30‑15:30 Italy time) offers early price signals, while after‑hours trading can extend market reactions well into the night.

What Investors Should Watch

  • AI rollout speed: Faster adoption of AI tools could lift ad‑click‑through rates and justify higher valuations.
  • Data‑center capacity: Completion timelines for the Indiana projects will be a key metric for operational efficiency.
  • Regulatory outcomes: Court rulings on Instagram’s design and data‑privacy practices may affect Meta’s brand and cost structure.
  • Global ad spend trends: Shifts in advertising budgets across the United States, Asia‑Pacific and Europe will directly impact revenue.
Pro tip: Monitor the 2026 NYSE holiday calendar (e.g., New Year’s Day on Jan 1, Martin Luther King Jr. Day on Jan 20) to anticipate low‑volume days that can amplify price moves.

FAQ

What is Meta’s current stock price?
USD 668.69 at market close; USD 671.45 in after‑hours trading.
How much upside do analysts see?
Average target price of USD 859.85, roughly a 28.6 % upside.
Where is Meta building new data centers?
In Indiana, with a 1‑GW facility and a planned USD 10 billion expansion.
What new features is Meta adding to Facebook?
AI‑driven content recommendations, moderation tools and ad‑targeting enhancements.
Are there any legal challenges facing Meta?
Yes – Instagram’s design is under scrutiny in a U.S. Court and South Korean regulators are probing account deletions.

Stay Ahead of the Curve

Meta’s blend of AI innovation, massive infrastructure investment and evolving regulatory landscape makes it a compelling watchlist for growth‑oriented investors. Subscribe to our newsletter for real‑time updates, deep‑dive analyses, and exclusive market insights.