Meta Platforms, Inc. (META, formerly Facebook)

Meta Platforms, Inc., formerly Facebook, stands as a pioneering force in the realm of social networking. Established by Mark Zuckerberg in 2004, Meta has transcended its origins to cultivate an expansive ecosystem encompassing Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp and Oculus VR. This combination of platforms has fundamentally reshaped global communication, transforming how people connect, exchange information and engage with media.

Investors are drawn to Meta's stock for several reasons. Firstly, the company benefits from formidable network effects across its suite of social media applications, cementing its position as a leader in the industry and erecting significant barriers to entry for potential competitors. Moreover, Meta's vast user base gives it a wealth of invaluable data, which it utilises to drive targeted advertising – a cornerstone of its revenue model. Additionally, Meta has capitalised on the burgeoning interest in tech and generative AI, positioning itself to capitalise on future innovations.

However, investors must remain vigilant against the ever-present threat of cyber-attacks and breaches, which could pose substantial risks to Meta's operations. Nonetheless, such challenges may also yield investment opportunities in cybersecurity and related sectors. Check our shares and stocks to start trading Meta stock!