Zuckerberg Dodges Questions About Meta's Past Acquisitions in Antitrust Trial
In a closely watched federal antitrust trial, Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg strategically sidestepped detailed questioning about the company's controversial acquisitions of Instagram in 2012 and WhatsApp in 2014, which prosecutors argue were designed to eliminate potential competition.
The trial, centered on allegations that Meta engaged in anticompetitive practices, saw Zuckerberg maintaining a carefully measured approach to his testimony. When pressed about the strategic rationale behind these landmark purchases, he provided minimal insights, often deflecting or offering broad, generalized responses.
- Instagram was acquired for approximately $1 billion when it had only 30 million users
- WhatsApp purchase followed in 2014 for a staggering $19 billion
- Prosecutors argue these acquisitions were meant to neutralize potential competitive threats
Legal experts suggest Zuckerberg's reticence might be a calculated legal strategy to minimize potential self-incrimination. The testimony highlights the ongoing scrutiny of big tech's acquisition practices and their impact on market competition.
The trial represents a significant moment in tech regulation, potentially setting precedents for how large technology companies can expand and acquire smaller competitors in the future.
