Meta Platforms Inc (NASDAQ: META), for the very first time, will be rewarding its shareholders with dividends. The announcement specifies a dividend of 50 cents per share.
In addition, Meta has revealed a significant share buyback program worth a staggering $50 billion. This strategic move aims to strengthen investor confidence and maximize the value for shareholders.
Amidst a turbulent period between 2021 and 2022, Meta experienced a substantial decline in value, with its stock plummeting by a staggering 77%. However, since November 2022, the company has staged an incredible comeback, with its stock soaring by an impressive 439%.
This resurgence can be attributed to Meta's strategic decision to prioritize AI integration across its product offerings. Looking forward, Meta has unveiled ambitious plans to make substantial investments in AI throughout 2024.
Meta's financial performance has been truly impressive. With a 25% increase in revenue, reaching a staggering $40.1 billion in the final three months of 2023, the company is making waves. One of the key drivers is the recovery in ad sales.
Despite diversifying its interests, Meta remains primarily a social media company, relying heavily on advertising revenue. The fact that advertisers continue to show strong support is a clear testament to the enduring appeal and effectiveness of the platform as a marketing tool.
The company's financial standing received a substantial boost from its Q4 earnings report. Released on Thursday, the report exceeded expectations, with actual earnings of $5.33, surpassing the estimated $4.56.
This positive development caused Meta's stock to soar by 15% when the market opened on Friday, resulting in a valuation increase of over £110 billion. The stock is now on a clear path towards reaching the psychological level of $500.
After the closing bell on Thursday, February 1, the stock closed at $394.78, trading up by 1.58%.