WhatsApp Stock in 2025: Price, Symbol & How to Buy It
WhatsApp processes over 100 billion messages daily, making it a global powerhouse in digital communication. But can you invest in it?
In this article, we’ll break down WhatsApp’s stock status, its place within Meta Platforms, and whether an IPO could be on the horizon. We’ll also explore its revenue model and how it fits into the broader investment landscape in 2025.
If you’re a trader or investor eyeing opportunities in tech, understanding WhatsApp’s financial situation is essential. Let’s dive in.
Does WhatsApp Stock Exist?
The short answer is no, WhatsApp does not have its own stock. WhatsApp is not a publicly traded company with a standalone stock symbol on exchanges like the NYSE or NASDAQ.
Instead, it operates as a subsidiary of Meta Platforms, Inc., which acquired it in 2014. This means there’s no “WhatsApp stock” you can buy directly. However, that doesn’t mean you can’t invest in WhatsApp’s success—we’ll explore how in the next section.
For now, understand that WhatsApp’s financial performance is tied to Meta, and its growth contributes to Meta’s overall stock value under the ticker symbol NASDAQ: META.
Can I Invest in WhatsApp (as a Private Company)?
Yes, you can invest in WhatsApp indirectly by purchasing shares of Meta Platforms, Inc. (NASDAQ: META). Features like group chat have significantly contributed to WhatsApp’s massive user base and its role in Meta’s valuation. Since Meta owns WhatsApp, buying Meta stock gives you exposure to WhatsApp’s performance along with Meta’s other powerhouse platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Threads.
As of March 25, 2025, Meta’s stock is a key player in the tech sector, and WhatsApp’s massive user base—over 2 billion monthly active users—plays a significant role in its valuation. To get started, you’ll need a brokerage account, and at Maverick Trading, we can guide you through the process of adding META to your portfolio. Book a call with Maverick Trading to strategize your next move and unlock your trading potential.
WhatsApp Overview
WhatsApp is a popular messaging app that allows users to send text messages, make voice and video calls, and share media files with individuals or groups. With over 2 billion monthly active users, WhatsApp is one of the most widely used messaging apps in the world. The app is available on various mobile devices, including Android and iOS, and can also be accessed on personal computers through its web version. WhatsApp’s popularity can be attributed to its user-friendly interface, end-to-end encryption, and cross-platform compatibility.
A Brief History of WhatsApp
Whatsapp timeline
WhatsApp was born in 2009, founded by Brian Acton and Jan Koum, two former Yahoo employees with a vision for simple, cost-effective communication. Designed for cross-platform mobile messaging, WhatsApp Messenger allowed users to send texts, images, and more without the hefty SMS fees charged by carriers. Its appeal skyrocketed, especially in regions with high messaging costs, making it a go-to app worldwide.
In February 2014, Facebook (now Meta) acquired WhatsApp for a staggering $19 billion—a move that raised eyebrows but underscored its potential. At the time, WhatsApp already had a strong foothold, but under Meta’s umbrella, it grew to over 1.5 billion monthly active users by 2018, a number that’s since climbed past 2 billion. Today, WhatsApp facilitates the exchange of 100 billion messages each day, cementing its status as the world’s leading messaging app. But what’s its stock price, and how does it generate revenue? Let’s dig in.
What Is the Current Price of WhatsApp?
Since WhatsApp doesn’t have its own stock, there’s no direct “WhatsApp stock price” to track. Instead, its value is reflected in Meta’s stock price. As of March 25, 2025, Meta’s stock (NASDAQ: META) closed at approximately $586.00, according to recent market data.
This price fluctuates daily based on market conditions, Meta’s earnings, and investor sentiment toward its portfolio, including WhatsApp. While WhatsApp’s specific contribution isn’t broken out in Meta’s financials, its growth in business messaging and user engagement boosts Meta’s overall valuation. Curious about how WhatsApp makes money?
How Does WhatsApp Make Money?
WhatsApp’s revenue model has evolved since its acquisition. Initially, it charged users a $1 annual subscription fee, but Meta scrapped that in 2016 to focus on free access and scale its user base. Today, WhatsApp generates revenue primarily through its business services:
- WhatsApp Business App: With over 200 million monthly active users as of 2023, this free app lets small businesses create profiles and communicate with customers. Meta has since introduced premium features to monetize it further.
- Click-to-Message Ads: Businesses pay Meta to run ads on Facebook and Instagram that direct users to WhatsApp chats. This segment reportedly generates billions annually across Meta’s platforms.
- WhatsApp Business API: Large enterprises pay per message to use this premium service for customer support, marketing, and transactions. Companies like Air France and Volvo are among its users.
While WhatsApp itself doesn’t rely on ads within the app, its data integration enhances Meta’s advertising ecosystem, indirectly fueling revenue. So, how much does it bring in?
How Much Money Does WhatsApp Make Per Year?
Meta doesn’t disclose WhatsApp’s revenue separately, bundling it into its “Family of Apps” segment, which includes Facebook, Instagram, and Messenger. In 2024, this segment generated $164.5 billion, with advertising as the primary driver.
Analysts estimate WhatsApp’s direct contribution—via business messaging—to be between $1.5 billion and $2 billion annually as of early 2025, though some predict it could reach $30–40 billion in the future if fully monetized with AI tools and expanded services. For context, WhatsApp’s business messaging revenue doubled in India alone in 2024, signaling strong growth potential. Who owns this cash cow?
Who Is the Shareholder of WhatsApp under Meta Platforms?
WhatsApp is wholly owned by Meta Platforms, Inc., a publicly traded company. Meta’s largest shareholders include institutional giants like Vanguard Group (7.83% stake) and Fidelity Management & Research Co. LLC (5.47%), alongside CEO Mark Zuckerberg, who retains significant voting power. When you buy META stock, you’re investing alongside these heavyweights, gaining a piece of WhatsApp and Meta’s broader empire. But is Meta a solid investment?
Investing in WhatsApp’s Parent Company
As WhatsApp is a private company owned by Meta Platforms Inc., investors cannot purchase shares of WhatsApp directly. However, they can invest in Meta Platforms, which is a publicly traded company listed on the NASDAQ stock exchange under the ticker symbol META. By investing in Meta Platforms, investors can indirectly benefit from WhatsApp’s growth and success.
Is Meta a Good Stock to Buy?
Meta’s stock has been a standout performer, up over 55% in the last 12 months as of March 25, 2025, with a consensus analyst price target of $731.76—suggesting modest upside potential. Its strengths include a dominant social media portfolio, growing AI investments, and WhatsApp’s untapped monetization opportunities.
However, risks like regulatory scrutiny (e.g., a $25.4 million fine in India in 2024) and competition from apps like Telegram and Signal warrant caution. For traders, Meta offers volatility and growth potential, making it a compelling pick—especially if WhatsApp’s business services take off. At Maverick Trading, we can help you assess if META fits your risk tolerance and goals.
How to Buy Meta Platforms Stock
To buy Meta Platforms stock, investors need to open a brokerage account with a reputable online broker. They can then fund their account and place a buy order for Meta Platforms stock. Investors can choose from various types of orders, including market orders, limit orders, and stop-loss orders. It’s essential to conduct thorough research and consider various factors, such as the company’s financial performance, industry trends, and market conditions, before making an investment decision.
Alternatives to Buying WhatsApp Stock
As WhatsApp is not a publicly traded company, investors cannot buy its stock directly. However, they can consider investing in other companies that offer similar services or have a strong presence in the messaging and social media space. Companies like Snap Inc. (NYSE: SNAP), which owns Snapchat, or Twitter, Inc. (NYSE: TWTR), provide alternative investment opportunities in the social media and messaging sector. These companies also have significant user bases and offer various communication services, making them potential candidates for investors looking to diversify their portfolios.
Final Thoughts on Whatsapp Stock
WhatsApp may not have its own stock, but its role in Meta Platforms, Inc. (NASDAQ: META) makes it a key player in the trading world. From its $19 billion acquisition to its 100 billion daily messages, WhatsApp’s growth is undeniable. While you can’t buy “WhatsApp stock” directly, investing in Meta offers exposure to this messaging giant’s future. With revenue streams evolving and Meta’s stock showing resilience, it’s a space worth watching in 2025.
Ready to explore this opportunity? Find out more at Maverick Trading.
Frequently Asked Questions Related to WhatsApp Stock
Is there a stock for WhatsApp?
No, WhatsApp doesn’t have its own stock. It’s a subsidiary of Meta Platforms, Inc. (NASDAQ: META), so you invest in WhatsApp through Meta shares.
Is there a stock for ChatGPT?
No, ChatGPT is developed by OpenAI, a private company not currently traded on public markets.
Is TikTok a stock?
No, TikTok is owned by ByteDance, a private Chinese company, so it doesn’t have a public stock available.
Is ChatGPT on the stock market?
No, OpenAI remains private, with no IPO announced as of March 25, 2025.
How much is TikTok stock?
Since TikTok (ByteDance) isn’t publicly traded, there’s no stock price. Its valuation is estimated in the billions privately.