Meta outlook revised to negative by S&P on cash flow and capex concerns

S&P Global Ratings has changed its outlook on Meta Platforms from stable to negative. According to CNBC and CNBC Technology, the shift is driven by the company's heavy capital expenditures and concerns regarding free cash flow.

Investing.com reports that the agency cited uncertainty regarding how long elevated capital expenditures will last, alongside negative free operating cash flow. S&P Global projects Meta’s capital expenditures will reach $140 billion this year. The agency also forecasts that capex will accelerate to over $225 billion in 2027 and $252 billion in 2028, which are increases from previous estimates of $163 billion and $178 billion.

S&P Global expects Meta to face free operating cash flow deficits of $22 billion in 2026 and $71 billion in 2027, with a projected $39 billion deficit in 2028. The agency previously anticipated the company would return to positive free operating cash flow in 2028. Additionally, S&P Global stated that Meta's ability to monetize its AI investments is more limited compared to its peers.

Brief written by urgent.news from CNBC, CNBC Technology, Investing.com — 3 reports on this story. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.