Wall Street Sees Upside for META as Metaverse Budget Faces Major Trim

Core Viewpoint - Meta Platforms, Inc. is positioned as a significant AI stock on Wall Street, with analysts predicting a potential upside following cuts to Metaverse spending, which could enhance earnings per share (EPS) by $2 by 2026 [1][5]. Group 1: Analyst Ratings and Predictions - Mizuho analyst Lloyd Walmsley has reiterated an Outperform rating for Meta with a price target of $815.00, following news of potential cuts to Metaverse investments [1]. - The anticipated cuts could lead to a major surge in Meta shares, with a recommendation for investors to add to their positions after a recent 5% increase in share price [3]. Group 2: Resource Allocation and Cuts - CEO Mark Zuckerberg is expected to significantly reduce resources allocated to the Metaverse, which is envisioned as a digital space for work and social interaction [2]. - Reports indicate that Meta may cut up to 30% of its Metaverse spending, impacting projects like Meta Horizon Worlds and the Quest virtual reality unit, potentially resulting in layoffs as early as January [3]. Group 3: Financial Implications - The cuts in Metaverse spending could add approximately $2 per share to the projected 2026 EPS of $29.50, while Reality Labs is currently incurring losses of about $5.85 per share [5]. - The cumulative operating income losses from the Metaverse since 2019 amount to $80 billion, raising questions about how much of the cuts were already factored into the 2026 guidance [5]. Group 4: Investment Considerations - While Meta is recognized as a potential investment, there are other AI stocks that may offer greater upside potential with less downside risk [6].