Exploring the Ownership of WhatsApp within Meta Platforms
Who owns WhatsApp?
With over 2 billion monthly active users as of 2024, WhatsApp is the third most popular social networking platform, owned by Meta Platforms, Inc. (Formerly Facebook, Inc.). WhatsApp was founded in 2009 by Brian Acton and Jan Koum, focusing on instant messaging leveraging custom statuses. The acquisition of WhatsApp by Facebook, Inc. in 2014 for $19 billion remains the largest venture capital-backed company acquisition in history.
About WhatsApp
WhatsApp, now owned by Meta Platforms, is a globally popular instant messaging app that has revolutionized communication worldwide. By 2015, it had garnered over 2 billion users globally, becoming a primary medium of communication across continents.
About Meta
Meta Platforms, a tech giant, is the parent company of WhatsApp, Facebook, and Threads. Meta strives to expand beyond social media into technologies like virtual and augmented reality, AI, and blockchain. Mark Zuckerberg's vision for Meta embodies a transition into Web3 and a digital realm beyond social media platforms.
Who is the real owner of WhatsApp?
While Meta Platforms is publicly traded, notable stakeholders like Mark Zuckerberg, Michael Schroepfer, and David Fischer hold major shares. Institutional investors like Vanguard and BlackRock own substantial Meta shares, driving Meta's growth in the global stock market.
This article was prepared using information from open sources in accordance with the principles of Ethical Policy. The editorial team is not responsible for absolute accuracy, as it relies on data from the sources referenced.