Meta Platforms Faces Significant Sell-Off Amid Trade-War Fears

Meta Platforms (NASDAQ: META) experienced a considerable decline in stock price during Thursday’s trading session, dropping 4.3% by 2:30 p.m. ET.

At that time, the S&P 500 (SNPINDEX: ^GSPC) and Nasdaq Composite (NASDAQINDEX: ^IXIC) also faced downturns, with losses of 1.2% and 1.7%, respectively. Earlier in the day, Meta’s stock had fallen as much as 5.3%.

Despite the release of better-than-expected inflation data in the last two days, investors remain skittish about market conditions. Concerns over trade-war tensions are prompting substantial sell-offs. Meta’s stock is concurrently facing pressure due to news regarding its content-moderation policies and a memoir published by a former employee.

Stock Decline Driven by Trade-War Concerns

Yesterday’s Consumer Price Index (CPI) inflation report proved lower than anticipated, while today’s Producer Price Index (PPI) report revealed an annual inflation rate of 3.2%, falling short of the anticipated 3.3%. Despite this good news, worries surrounding new tariffs and escalating trade-war risks have led many investors to exit the market.

Year-to-date, the S&P 500 is down approximately 6%, while the Nasdaq Composite has tumbled 10%. However, despite today’s declines, Meta’s stock remains up 1% for the year.

Additional Factors Contributing to Meta’s Downward Trend

In addition to overall market negativity, Meta isn’t benefiting from two recent headlines. Investors have shown discontent over Meta’s decision to adopt an open-source algorithm similar to the one used by X for its community-notes feature.

Furthermore, reports indicate that Meta has filed a lawsuit to prevent former employee Sarah Wynn-Williams from promoting her memoir, Careless People. This book includes unflattering commentary about Meta’s corporate culture and CEO Mark Zuckerberg’s initiatives in the Chinese market.

Financial Opportunities in Uncertain Times

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Currently, we’re issuing “Double Down” alerts for three companies that show considerable promise for future growth.

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*Stock Advisor returns as of March 10, 2025

Randi Zuckerberg, a former director of market development and spokesman for Facebook and sister to Meta Platforms CEO Mark Zuckerberg, is a member of The Motley Fool’s board of directors. Keith Noonan holds no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Meta Platforms. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.

The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.