What is Meta's 2026 capital expenditure forecast?

It ranges between $125 billion and $145 billion, up from the previous forecast of $115-$135 billion.

Why is Meta increasing its capital expenditure?

To double down on investments in AI infrastructure, even as it seeks cost savings through layoffs.

What was Meta's family daily active people (DAP) count?

It reached 3.56 billion, up 4% year-over-year.

Did Meta release full quarterly financial results?

No, this announcement was an update to its capital expenditure guidance only.

Meta Raises 2026 Capex Forecast to $145B, Doubles Down on AI

Meta Platforms raised its annual capital expenditure forecast for 2026 to a range of $125-$145 billion, up from the previous $115-$135 billion. The company is doubling down on AI infrastructure investments while pursuing cost savings through planned layoffs.

Meta Platforms (META) announced an increase in its 2026 annual capital expenditure forecast to a range of $125-$145 billion, compared to the previous forecast of $115-$135 billion. The move underscores the company's commitment to investing heavily in artificial intelligence infrastructure, even as it seeks cost savings through planned layoffs.

Key Financial Metrics

Metric	Value	YoY Change
Family Daily Active People (DAP)	3.56 billion	+4%
2026 Capex Forecast	$125-$145 billion	-

Meta did not release full quarterly financial results in this announcement but provided an update on its capital expenditure guidance.

Key Highlights

Meta reaffirmed its strategy of pouring billions into AI infrastructure while simultaneously pursuing cost efficiencies via employee layoffs. The family of apps (Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, Messenger) saw daily active people rise 4% year-over-year to 3.56 billion.

Future Guidance

Meta now expects 2026 capital expenditure between $125 billion and $145 billion, up from the prior range of $115-$135 billion. This revision reflects the company's intensified focus on building AI capabilities.

Stock Impact

The report did not include an immediate stock price reaction for META. Investors may view the increased capex as a sign of confidence in AI's future or as a near-term cost concern.

What This Means for Investors

The raised capex forecast demonstrates Meta's strong commitment to AI investments, a sector expected to drive future growth. However, it also raises questions about near-term profit margins. Investors will closely watch the company's ability to generate returns from these substantial expenditures.