Meta Reports Q3 Results Amid Legal Charge and New Class C Share Approval
+22 new sources since this summary was written
On October 21, 2026, Meta Platforms reported third-quarter revenue of $64.60 billion, up 26% year over year on both a reported and constant currency basis. A $9.89 billion charge tied to an agreement with 52 U.S. state attorneys general reduced diluted EPS to $3.83, versus $7.40 excluding the charge. Meta forecast fourth-quarter revenue of $73-76 billion, narrowed 2026 capital expenditure guidance to $135-145 billion, and approved publicly listed, nonvoting Class C shares effective January 19, 2027.
Why it matters
The litigation charge mechanically reduced reported profitability, while the revenue outlook and capital expenditure range set near-term expectations for advertising growth and AI investment. The new Class C shares give Meta an additional nonvoting equity instrument for growth funding, employee compensation and potential acquisitions.
Key facts
- 1Meta reported third-quarter revenue of $64.60 billion, an increase of 26% year over year on both a reported and constant currency basis. prnewswire.com
- 2Diluted EPS was $3.83, or $7.40 excluding the $9.89 billion litigation charge. prnewswire.com
- 3Family daily active people averaged 3.64 billion in September 2026, up 3% year over year. prnewswire.com
- 4Meta expects fourth-quarter 2026 revenue of $73-76 billion. prnewswire.com
- 5Meta expects 2026 capital expenditures of $135-145 billion, narrowed from $130-145 billion previously. prnewswire.com
- 6The new publicly listed, nonvoting Class C common stock is scheduled to become effective January 19, 2027. investing.com
Open questions
- , and mention a $25B New Mexico or data privacy judgment, but the primary results materials do not provide details confirming that figure or event.
Summary written by AlphAI AI Desk from 12 of 12 sources. Not investment advice. Figures are as stated by the linked sources.