What is Meta's new capital expenditure plan for AI in 2026?

Meta plans to spend between $115 billion and $135 billion on capital expenditures for artificial intelligence in 2026.

Why are investors reacting with mixed sentiment to Meta's AI spending?

Investors are cautious due to Meta's previous large investments in the metaverse, which has not yet yielded significant returns, making them wary of another costly gamble.

How does Meta's current AI investment strategy compare to its metaverse venture?

Unlike the metaverse, Meta's AI investment is happening alongside similar large-scale investments from competitors like Google and Microsoft, potentially offering more industry validation.

Home / Technology / Meta's AI Bet: Zuckerberg Doubles Down on Huge Spending

Meta's AI Bet: Zuckerberg Doubles Down on Huge Spending

29 Jan

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Summary

Meta plans $115-$135 billion in capital expenditures for 2026.
This AI spending nearly doubles the previous year's projected expenses.
Meta's AI investment faces investor skepticism amid metaverse failures.

Meta's AI Bet: Zuckerberg Doubles Down on Huge Spending

Meta Platforms is dramatically escalating its investment in artificial intelligence, with CEO Mark Zuckerberg announcing a projected 2026 capital expenditure of $115 billion to $135 billion. This nearly doubles the company's previously announced spending targets for the upcoming year, marking an extraordinary commitment to AI development. This aggressive strategy follows a pattern of Zuckerberg's intense focus on compelling products, reminiscent of acquisitions like Instagram and WhatsApp.

However, this significant AI investment is generating a mixed response from investors. The shadow of the metaverse, a venture that has yet to yield substantial returns despite massive investment, looms large. Meta's core advertising business remains highly profitable, but the current AI gamble is seen by some as a significant risk.