Meta: U.S. Lobbying Expenses, by year
YearSpending,
in million USD
20239.91
202219.15
202120.07
202019.68
201916.71
201812.60
201711.50
20168.69
20159.85
20149.34
20136.43
20123.85
20111.35
20100.35
20090.21
  • Region: United States
  • Time period: 2009 to 2023
  • Published: Jul 2023

Data Analysis and Insights

Updated: Apr 14, 2024 | Published by: Statistico | About Us | Data sources

Overview of Meta's Lobbying Spending Growth

Meta's lobbying expenses in the U.S. demonstrated a significant upward trajectory from 2009 with a mere $0.21 million to its peak in 2021 at $20.07 million. However, there was a notable decrease to $9.91 million in 2023, marking a substantial reduction from its peak.

Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR)

Over the span of 14 years (2009 to 2023), Meta's lobbying expenses exhibited a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of approximately 37%. This rate underscores the aggressive increase in lobbying efforts over time.

Year with Maximum Lobbying Spending

Meta allocated its highest lobbying budget in 2021, spending $20.07 million. This year stands out as the apex of its lobbying financial commitment within the observed period.

Significant Drop in Recent Years

A stark contrast in spending patterns emerged as Meta's lobbying expenses saw a dramatic fall to $9.91 million in 2023, almost halving the peak amount spent in 2021. This decline reflects a notable shift in the company's lobbying strategy or priorities.

Trend of Increasing Lobbying Expenses

Excluding the recent decrease, a clear trend of rising lobbying expenses is evident, with spending more than doubling from $9.34 million in 2014 to $19.68 million in 2020. Such increases indicate Meta's growing focus on influencing public policy and regulations.

Historical Perspective on Lobbying Investment

Reflecting on the historical data, Meta's investment in lobbying has grown exponentially from its initial $0.21 million in 2009. Over a decade, this growth not only highlights the company's evolving engagement with policymakers but also mirrors the increasing scrutiny and regulatory challenges faced by tech giants.

Analysis of Spending Fluctuations

While there has been an overall upward trend, fluctuations in annual spending, such as the dip to $9.85 million in 2015 following a previous year's spending of $9.34 million in 2014, and the recent sharp decrease, suggest strategic adjustments in Meta's approach to lobbying based on changing political climates, regulatory challenges, or corporate priorities.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of Meta's lobbying expenses over the 14 years?

The CAGR of Meta's lobbying expenses over 14 years is approximately 37%, indicating a strong upward trend.

In which year did Meta spend the most on lobbying?

Meta spent the most on lobbying in 2021, with expenses reaching $20.07 million.

Has there been a major decrease in Meta's lobbying expenses recently?

Yes, there was a substantial decrease in Meta's lobbying expenses to $9.91 million in 2023, nearly half of its peak spending in 2021.

Terms and Definitions

Meta is the new brand name of the multinational technology conglomerate previously known as Facebook, Inc. It was officially rebranded as Meta Platforms Inc. in 2021. The company oversees several platforms and technologies, including the Facebook social media site, Instagram, WhatsApp, and Oculus, among others.

U.S Lobbying refers to the act of attempting to influence decisions made by officials in the U.S government, most often legislators or members of regulatory agencies. Entities that engage in lobbying include businesses, industry groups, advocacy groups, non-profit organizations, or individuals.

Expenses refer to the cost required for something; the money spent on something. In the context of the article, it refers to the money spent by Meta on lobbying activities in the U.S.

Policy influence refers to the capacity to affect the formulation, adoption, and implementation of public policies or laws. In terms of lobbying, it is the ultimate goal of the lobbying process. Meta, like many corporations, uses lobbying to try to influence policy in a way that is favorable to its business interests.

Government officials are individuals who have been appointed or elected to a public office within the government. They are at various levels including federal, state, and local levels and they can be members of legislative bodies, heads of agencies, or even act in a judicial capacity.

Lobbyists are professionals hired to advocate on behalf of a particular interest, entity, or cause. Their main role is to interact with government officials and persuade them to take action or make decisions that favor the interests of the people they represent.

Legislation refers to the process of making or enacting laws. This is one of the key areas where lobbyists seek to have influence, as changes in laws can significantly affect the interests of the entities they represent.

Regulatory agencies are public authorities or government agencies set up to oversee and enforce laws and regulations in specific sectors. They can be influenced by lobbyists who aim to shape regulations in a way that benefits certain business or industry practices.
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