US rests case in landmark Meta antitrust trial

Core Argument - The US government is attempting to prove that Meta acquired Instagram and WhatsApp to eliminate them as competitors, which could lead to Meta being forced to divest these apps [1][2]. Antitrust Case Details - The case, initiated by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), is being heard in a federal court in Washington, presided over by Judge James Boasberg [2]. - The trial is expected to last several more weeks, with key Meta executives, including CEO Mark Zuckerberg, testifying [4]. Market Competition - The government argues that Meta's unique ability to connect friends and family across its apps is a significant factor in its success, positioning Snap as a distant competitor [3][5]. - Meta counters that its real competitors are platforms like YouTube and TikTok, emphasizing a broader and more dynamic market landscape [3][9]. Financial Performance and Market Position - The government claims that Meta's dominance allows it to generate substantial profits, despite reports of customer dissatisfaction with its products [5]. - Meta executives assert that the company is facing challenges, particularly as younger users shift towards TikTok-style content, indicating a changing market environment [6][7]. Testimonies and Evidence - Testimonies have included statements from Instagram's founder, Kevin Systrom, suggesting that Zuckerberg may have undermined Instagram's success post-acquisition, supporting the government's argument [8]. - Meta has begun presenting its own witnesses, arguing that the FTC has not met the legal standards required for an antitrust case [9].