$META (+3,24 %) : Meta, the parent company of Facebook, is facing a significant fine from the European Union for allegedly trying to dominate the classified advertising market. EU regulators claim that Meta links its free Marketplace service with its social network to undermine competitors. This investigation began in 2019 after rival companies accused Facebook of abusing its market power by offering free services while profiting from user data.

The European Commission's decision on this matter could come as soon as next month, marking one of the last investigations led by Margrethe Vestager, the current competition chief. If found guilty, Meta could face penalties of up to 10% of its global annual revenue, which was nearly $135 billion in 2023. However, fines are typically lower than the maximum allowed.

Meta has denied the allegations, arguing that Facebook Marketplace operates in a competitive environment and does not misuse data from rivals. As the EU prepares for a new leadership cycle, it remains to be seen how this case will unfold and whether it will impact Meta's operations in Europe and beyond.

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