Meta Platforms(US:META) 3 6 Ke·2025-07-31 09:13Core Viewpoint - Meta is undergoing a significant strategic shift towards AI, particularly focusing on the development of "personal superintelligence" through its newly established Superintelligence Lab, despite previous setbacks in its metaverse ambitions [1][20]. Financial Performance - For the second fiscal quarter of 2025, Meta reported revenues of $47.5 billion, a 22% year-over-year increase, and a net profit of $18.3 billion, up 36% [5]. - The company anticipates revenues of up to $50.5 billion for the upcoming quarter, exceeding expectations [5]. - Daily active users across Meta's applications grew by 6.4% year-over-year, reaching 3.48 billion [7]. Advertising Revenue - Advertising revenue constituted 98% of total revenue, amounting to $46.5 billion, driven by an 11% increase in ad impressions and a 9% rise in average ad prices [8]. - The introduction of new AI-driven ad retrieval and ranking models has significantly enhanced conversion rates, leading to increased advertiser demand and pricing [8]. Reality Labs - Reality Labs, responsible for Meta's metaverse initiatives, reported an operating loss of $4.53 billion for the quarter, with cumulative losses nearing $70 billion since late 2020 [9]. - Despite the losses, Reality Labs saw a 5% revenue increase, attributed to initial successes with AI glasses [9]. Talent Acquisition - Meta has aggressively recruited top talent from companies like OpenAI, Google, and Apple, with some individuals receiving salaries exceeding $200 million [12]. - The Superintelligence Lab currently has around 50 members and operates independently from other departments, overseeing broader AI initiatives [14]. Cost and Expenditure - Total costs and expenses for the second quarter were $27 billion, a 12% increase year-over-year, with projected annual expenditures between $114 billion and $118 billion [15]. - The primary drivers of cost growth are infrastructure and employee compensation [15]. Strategic Direction - The establishment of the Superintelligence Lab marks a critical pivot in Meta's strategy, moving away from open-source models towards a more closed approach [20]. - The company aims to create a small, high-density team to drive cutting-edge research, contrasting with its traditional operational model [16][18]. Internal Dynamics - Concerns have arisen regarding the internal dynamics and potential conflicts within Meta, as the new lab's structure may lead to dissatisfaction among existing teams [20].