The article analyzes the recent drop in Meta's stock price and considers whether or not it presents a buying opportunity. It explores the potential outcomes of Meta's heavy investment in VR and the metaverse, and offers advice based on individual circumstances.
Meta's Current Situation
Meta (Facebook) is currently down 25% due to disappointing earnings. This decline is largely attributed to shareholder concerns regarding Mark Zuckerberg's significant investment of billions of dollars into VR and metaverse development. Many question the viability of this vision and the wisdom of allocating so much capital to it.
Personal Considerations Are Key
The article emphasizes that investment decisions should never be based solely on the advice of others. Individuals must consider their own financial situation, time horizon, age, and risk tolerance. Buying or selling based solely on external recommendations is considered unwise. The best approach involves gathering information from various sources and then synthesizing it with your own personal considerations to make informed decisions.
Possible Future Outcomes for Meta
The future of Meta hinges on the success (or failure) of its VR/metaverse ventures. There are two primary potential outcomes:
Outcome 1: VR Fails and Meta Recovers
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Zuckerberg realizes the VR endeavor is not viable and shuts down that division.
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Meta refocuses on its core businesses: Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp.
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The stock price, initially discounted due to wasted investment, gradually recovers as cash flow from existing platforms rebuilds valuation.
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The author questions the company's marketing and the "vision" it is portraying.
Outcome 2: VR Succeeds, But It Will Take Time
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VR becomes the future of technology.
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Meta, as a pioneer, endures the awkward initial stages of VR development.
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The stock price will take time to reflect this success.
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It also means that VR will be commonplace for everyone.
Concerns and Considerations
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Depreciated Stock Price: Regardless of the outcome, the stock price is expected to remain depreciated for some time. This is due to the significant investment already sunk into VR.
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Zuckerberg's Vision: There are concerns about Zuckerberg's ability to create a VR vision that aligns with user needs and preferences.
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Potential for Innovation: Despite the concerns, someone needs to take the risk in order to bring VR/AR to fruition.
Investment Advice: A Calculated Gamble?
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Young Investors: A small percentage (e.g., 5%) of a portfolio could be allocated to Meta as a high-risk, high-reward investment. The potential upside if VR succeeds is substantial, while the downside is limited if the investment is kept small.
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Older Investors: It's not recommended for older investors nearing retirement to invest in Meta because there is not enough time for the stock to appreciate.
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Overall: Consider Meta because the social fabric of humanity is broken and VR/AR could be a solution, it will bring people back together.
Contrarian Investment Strategy
The article suggests a contrarian approach to investing. Instead of following the crowd into stocks that haven't depreciated, consider buying into those, like Amazon, that have recently experienced significant drops.
Final Thoughts
The article concludes by reiterating that the future of VR is uncertain. It emphasizes the importance of individual research and risk assessment before making any investment decisions. Ultimately, whether or not to "buy the dip" in Meta is a personal choice based on one's individual circumstances and outlook on the future of VR.
Additional Resources
The author included links to WeBull, their health channel, and other relevant resources.