Citi Maintains Buy on Meta Platforms (META), Sees Potential Benefits from Cost Restructuring

Core Viewpoint - Meta Platforms Inc. is seen as a strong investment opportunity, with Citi maintaining a Buy rating and an $850 price target, following news of potential budget cuts in its Metaverse division [1]. Group 1: Strategic Realignment - Analysts view the planned budget cuts of up to 30% in the Metaverse division as a strategic realignment rather than a negative retrenchment, allowing for the reallocation of capital and talent towards Meta's Super Intelligence Labs and AI initiatives [2]. - The resource allocation debate between Reality & Research efforts and emerging AI opportunities is ongoing, but Citi believes the restructuring confirms Meta's focus on higher-return investments for growth [3]. Group 2: Budget Cuts and Future Investments - The majority of budget reductions will occur in Meta's virtual reality group and Horizon Worlds, with savings redirected towards futuristic projects like AI glasses and wearables [4]. - A company spokesperson indicated that the investment shift from Metaverse to AI glasses and wearables is due to positive momentum, with no broader changes planned beyond this [4]. Group 3: Company Overview - Meta Platforms Inc. operates major social media services, including Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, Messenger, and Threads, as well as virtual reality products like Oculus headsets [5].