News · Yahoo Finance

Meta (META): Can WhatsApp Become a Meaningful Business Beyond Advertising?

Family of Apps other revenue, which includes paid WhatsApp messaging, grew 73% to $1.01 billion in the second quarter of 2026 after 74% growth in the first quarter, but made up just 1.7% of group revenue. Meta trades at 21x forward P/E versus 27x trailing, with trailing earnings distorted by a $15.9 billion tax charge partly offset by an $8 billion tax benefit. The article cites growth drivers such as Business Agent, Meta One bundles and competition from RCS, but notes the scale gap: other revenue added $424 million year over year, versus $12.8 billion of additional advertising revenue. Meta plans $130–145 billion of 2026 capital spending, second-quarter free cash flow was $784 million, and a $10 billion third-quarter legal charge is expected. The author concludes Meta looks fairly valued at 21x forward P/E if advertising keeps funding growth, and WhatsApp must generate meaningful profit to justify a premium.

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MarketUS stocks
SectorCommunication Services
IndustryInteractive Media & Services
Market cap$1.9T
Close on 10/19/2026705.44
Change that session-0.55%
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