Meta Platforms disclosed a Q1 2026 headcount of 77,986 as of March 31 in its April 29 earnings release, reflecting a 1% year-over-year increase but a 1% sequential decline from Q4 2025 amid ongoing efficiency initiatives. This positioning stems from persistent headcount optimization to reallocate resources toward surging AI investments, with 2026 capital expenditures now guided at $125–145 billion—up $10 billion from prior estimates—following robust Q1 revenue of $56.3 billion, up 33% year-over-year on ad impressions and pricing strength. Trader consensus prices in continued workforce adjustments, including an announced cut of roughly 8,000 roles (10% of staff) starting May 20, ahead of Q2 earnings in July.