Meta Platforms has reported a 26% increase in third-quarter revenue, supported by strong advertising performance and growing investment in artificial intelligence, even as legal costs weighed heavily on its earnings.
The parent company of Facebook, Instagram and WhatsApp recorded revenue of $64.6 billion for the quarter ended September 30, 2026, up from $51.24 billion in the same period last year. The figure exceeded analysts’ expectations of approximately $63.3 billion. <Cite refs={["turn766997search8","turn766997news12"]}/>
Net income rose to $9.86 billion, compared with $2.71 billion a year earlier. However, the company’s results included a $9.89 billion charge linked to litigation concerning teen mental health and social media use. Excluding that charge, Meta said earnings per share would have been $7.40 rather than the reported $3.83.
Chief Executive Mark Zuckerberg said the company had reached important milestones in its push to develop advanced AI products, including the launch of its Muse and Muse Wonder offerings. He also highlighted the strength of Meta’s core business.
Meta reported an average of 3.64 billion daily active users across its family of applications in September, a 3% increase year-on-year. Advertising impressions rose by 10%, while the average price per advertisement increased by 14%.
The company is also preparing to expand its AI infrastructure, including spending on advanced chips and data centres. Meta raised its 2026 capital expenditure outlook to between $135 billion and $145 billion.
For the fourth quarter, the company expects revenue of $73 billion to $76 billion, signalling continued growth despite rising costs and legal pressures.
Meta also announced plans to introduce a new class of non-voting shares in January 2027, effectively creating a two-for-one stock split while preserving Zuckerberg’s voting control.
The results highlight Meta’s strong advertising business alongside the financial demands of its long-term AI ambitions.
