Meta Platforms Stock Rises 2.3% Amid Analyst Optimism

Analysts raise price targets as Meta continues to grow its social media empire.

Feb. 28, 2026 at 3:49am

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Meta Platforms, Inc. (NASDAQ:META) saw its stock price rise 2.3% during mid-day trading on Wednesday, reaching as high as $653.88 per share. The social media giant's stock has been buoyed by a number of positive analyst reports, with several firms raising their price targets on the company's shares. Meta's strong financial performance and continued growth across its family of apps, including Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, and Messenger, have contributed to the optimistic outlook.

Why it matters

Meta Platforms is one of the most influential and valuable technology companies in the world, with a market capitalization exceeding $1.6 trillion. The company's ability to maintain its dominant position in social media and capitalize on emerging trends like augmented and virtual reality is closely watched by investors, analysts, and the broader tech industry.

The details

Several Wall Street analysts have recently issued positive commentary on Meta Platforms. Cantor Fitzgerald reissued an 'overweight' rating on the stock and raised its price target to $860, up from $750 previously. Zacks Research, on the other hand, lowered its rating to 'hold' from 'strong-buy.' Other analysts, including those from Raymond James, Morgan Stanley, and Guggenheim, have also increased their price targets on Meta's shares, citing the company's strong financial performance and growth prospects.

  • Meta Platforms' stock price was up 2.3% during mid-day trading on Wednesday, February 28, 2026.
  • The company's shares traded as high as $653.88 and closed at $653.69 on the day.

The players

Meta Platforms, Inc.

A global technology company best known for building social networking services and immersive computing platforms. Formerly known as Facebook, Inc., the company rebranded in October 2021 to reflect an expanded strategic focus on augmented and virtual reality technologies alongside its social media businesses.

Cantor Fitzgerald

An investment bank that reissued an 'overweight' rating on Meta Platforms and raised its price target to $860, up from $750 previously.

Zacks Research

A research firm that lowered its rating on Meta Platforms from 'strong-buy' to 'hold'.

Raymond James

A financial services firm that reduced its target price on Meta Platforms from $825 to $800, while maintaining a 'strong-buy' rating.

Morgan Stanley

An investment bank that raised its price target on Meta Platforms from $750 to $825 and maintained an 'overweight' rating.

Guggenheim

A financial services firm that lifted its price target on Meta Platforms from $800 to $850 and kept a 'buy' rating on the stock.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.