Benchmark Raises Meta Platforms Price Target to $800 from $640

Benchmark analyst Mark Zgutowicz raised the price target on Meta Platforms (META) to $800 from $640 and maintains a Buy rating. The firm expects stable Q2 results and steady e-commerce trends, with a focus on Meta's AI infrastructure and recent top AI researcher hires. They predict Meta will maintain its 2025 capex guidance and tighten opex guidance.

In a significant move, Benchmark analyst Mark Zgutowicz has raised the price target on Meta Platforms (META) to $800 from $640, while maintaining a Buy rating [2]. The upgrade reflects positive expectations for the company's future performance, particularly in the areas of artificial intelligence (AI) and e-commerce trends.

Benchmark anticipates stable second-quarter (Q2) results for Meta, supported by steady e-commerce trends and continued ad pricing leverage in the U.S. and Canada markets. The company has seen revenue growth of 19.37% over the last twelve months, driven by strong momentum in these markets [2].

The analyst firm expects Meta to maintain its 2025 capital expenditure (capex) guidance while tightening operating expense (opex) guidance higher. This is due to recent hires of top researchers and the company's continued focus on AI infrastructure [2].

The price target increase reflects a reduced weighted average cost of capital (WACC) and a modest increase to out-year revenue projections. Benchmark also mentioned it will look for directional commentary relative to consensus 2026 estimates of 9% year-over-year capex growth and 14% opex growth [2].

In recent weeks, several other analyst firms have raised their price targets for Meta. KeyBanc raised its target to $800, citing strong revenue momentum and AI investments [1]. Bernstein increased its target to $775, highlighting Meta's success in AI and improved advertising effectiveness [2]. Other firms like Stifel, Scotiabank, and Morgan Stanley have also raised their targets, reflecting positive expectations for the company's future performance [3].

However, Meta faces some headwinds, including legal issues and regulatory challenges. Earlier in 2025, Meta's former Director of Global Public Policy Sarah Wynn-Williams testified before a Senate subcommittee, alleging that the company undermined U.S. national security by briefing Chinese officials on emerging technologies like AI [3]. Additionally, the European Union announced plans to fine Meta up to $1 billion for breaching antitrust rules [3].

Despite these challenges, Meta's focus on AI and its strong financial performance make it an attractive investment for many analysts. The company's AI investments are expected to drive growth in the coming years, with the AI market being a key driver of its stock performance [3].

References:
[1] https://finance.yahoo.com/news/keybanc-lifts-meta-meta-800-130752728.html
[2] https://www.investing.com/news/analyst-ratings/benchmark-raises-meta-stock-price-target-to-800-on-revenue-outlook-93CH-4148294
[3] https://247wallst.com/technology-3/2025/07/23/meta-platforms-meta-price-prediction-and-forecast-2025-2030/