Meta Platforms Expected to Surpass Q3 Targets Driven by AI and Ad Growth

Meta Platforms is projected to exceed Wall Street's expectations for its third-quarter 2025 earnings, driven by strong digital advertising demand and early successes in artificial intelligence, according to analysts at BofA Securities. The company is forecast to report earnings per share of $7.30 on $50 billion in revenue, surpassing both analyst estimates and its own guidance, with further gains expected into the fourth quarter. Meta's AI innovations, including automated ad tools, custom silicon, and advanced data centers, are fueling double-digit revenue growth and enhancing ad targeting and engagement across its platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Threads, and WhatsApp. The firm is also expanding its AI-driven ad infrastructure and beta-testing a fully automated ad platform anticipated for early 2026, positioning itself to capture increased ad spend from smaller businesses. Despite competitive pressures from Alphabet and Microsoft-backed OpenAI, Meta's continued investment in AI and infrastructure, along with a recent hiring surge focused on AI roles, underscores its commitment to maintaining leadership in digital advertising. Additionally, Meta remains the top tech lobbying spender, addressing a wide range of policy issues including AI, privacy, and digital taxes, reflecting its strategic engagement with regulatory environments.