Why Is Meta Platforms (META) Stock Price Down 7.95% Today, July 30? AI Cash-Flow Strain Overshadows Revenue Growth

Meta shares dropped 7.95% after earnings highlighted heavy AI-related capex and a sharp free-cash-flow decline ($784m vs $8.55b YoY) despite 28% revenue growth. The market reaction reflects increased sensitivity to near-term cash conversion and financing capacity for AI infrastructure, particularly as peers with clearer monetization profiles outperformed. Short term, this can pressure large-cap tech sentiment around capex intensity and return visibility.