Meta Platforms (NASDAQ:META) continues to dominate the digital landscape, and recent analyst insights suggest that the company’s growth story is far from over. The latest bullish outlook from Barclays points to a $25 billion revenue boost from monetizing WhatsApp and Threads—an opportunity that could drive both profitability and valuation higher. For investors evaluating where to put their money in 2025 and beyond, Meta Platforms stock offers a compelling case.
Why Meta Platforms Stock Is Still a Buy
Meta Platforms (NASDAQ:META), the parent company of Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, and Threads, has long been considered a powerhouse in social media. Its reach across billions of users worldwide gives it unmatched scale and influence.
The company’s focus on artificial intelligence (AI) has only strengthened its competitive edge. Meta is investing heavily in AI-driven tools for advertising, content moderation, and platform engagement. Analysts believe this strategy not only enhances efficiency but also positions the company for explosive growth as AI adoption accelerates across the tech sector.
For investors, the main question is whether this growth potential is already priced into Meta Platforms stock. With shares trading at about 27 times trailing earnings, the valuation seems fair, but upcoming catalysts could make the stock look cheap in hindsight.
The $25 Billion Revenue Opportunity
Barclays analysts recently highlighted Meta’s monetization potential from WhatsApp and Threads. While both platforms already boast significant user engagement, their revenue contribution to date has been relatively small compared to Facebook and Instagram.
According to Barclays, improved ad targeting and expanded business messaging services could add as much as $25 billion in new revenue streams. Assuming profit margins remain steady, this could result in nearly $9.5 billion in additional net income for Meta.
At current multiples, such growth would imply an increase of $260 billion or more in market capitalization. For context, that’s roughly equivalent to the combined value of companies like Intel (NASDAQ:INTC) and PayPal (NASDAQ:PYPL).
This revenue potential underscores why so many analysts remain bullish on Meta Platforms stock despite its recent run-up.
Analyst Price Targets Signal Upside
Wall Street consensus estimates suggest Meta Platforms stock has more room to run. The average analyst price target currently sits at $870, representing about 16% upside from current levels.
Some analysts are even more optimistic. The most bullish targets point to potential gains of up to 25%, reflecting expectations of faster top- and bottom-line growth. With the stock already rebounding sharply from its April lows, investors appear willing to bet on Meta’s ability to sustain momentum.
AI as a Long-Term Growth Engine
Beyond WhatsApp and Threads, Meta’s AI investments are expected to drive efficiency and innovation across its ecosystem. By optimizing ad performance and improving user experience, AI could help Meta achieve higher revenue per user.
This mirrors the success the company achieved with Reels on Instagram, which quickly became a revenue-generating powerhouse. If Meta repeats this model across new products and services, the growth trajectory for Meta Platforms stock could surprise even the most optimistic analysts.
Final Thoughts: Is Meta Platforms Stock a Buy?
For long-term investors, the case for Meta Platforms (NASDAQ:META) remains strong. The company’s unparalleled reach, aggressive AI strategy, and $25 billion revenue opportunity position it as one of the best growth stories in tech.
While risks remain—such as regulatory scrutiny, competition from rivals like TikTok, and market volatility—the upside potential appears to outweigh the risks. Investors worried about missing out on the next leg of tech sector growth may find Meta Platforms stock an attractive buy right now.
As long as Meta continues to innovate and monetize its platforms, the company’s valuation could rise substantially in the years ahead.
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Author Stephanie Bédard-Châteauneuf 
