Wall Street sets Meta Platforms (META) stock price for next 12 months

Core Viewpoint - Meta Platforms has received a bullish outlook from Wall Street despite recent stock volatility, with a consensus indicating strong buy recommendations for the next 12 months [5][6]. Financial Performance - Meta reported strong Q3 2024 earnings, with adjusted EPS of $7.25, exceeding expectations of $6.69, and revenue of $51.24 billion, surpassing the forecast of $49.41 billion. Sales increased by 26% year-over-year, marking the fastest growth since early 2024 [3][4]. - For Q4, Meta anticipates revenue between $56 billion and $59 billion, which is above analyst expectations at the midpoint [4]. Stock Outlook - A consensus from 41 Wall Street analysts shows a 'Strong Buy' rating, with 34 recommending a purchase, six advising to hold, and only one suggesting a sell [5]. - The average 12-month price target is $839.23, indicating a potential upside of 41.23% from the last closing price of $594.25. Projections vary widely, with a high target of $1,117.00 and a low of $655.15 [6]. Analyst Insights - Cantor Fitzgerald's analyst cut the price target to $720 from $830 but maintained an 'Overweight' rating, citing expected cost increases starting in 2026, with operating expenses projected to rise 30% year-over-year to $152 billion [8]. - Wedbush added Meta to its "Best Ideas List," maintaining an Outperform rating with a price target of $920, highlighting strong core ad demand and AI advancements [9]. - Needham maintained a 'Hold' rating without a price target, while Mizuho raised its target to $920 from $812, reflecting increased confidence after strong fiscal Q3 results [10].