Meta (META) settles social media case for $16.7 billion

Meta (META) has reached a settlement totaling $16.7 billion with a coalition of state attorneys general over allegations of misrepresenting child-related mental health harms from its apps like Facebook and Instagram. As part of the settlement, Meta will implement measures such as daily usage limits and enhanced age assurance features. California stands to receive between $1.5 billion and $2.1 billion if approved by the court. The settlement is also reported to help fund youth online safety initiatives over a 10-year period. This matters for investors as Meta's stock responded positively, rising nearly 2% in morning trading after the announcement.