[dmix]

Does engagement include interaction with FB messenger apps? Or just the social network part?

I could see the profile based social network part being downplayed by them in the future as they try to become the WeChat of the west - which is where you have to look if you want to see where FB wants to be in 10yrs.

WeChat is taking over the lives of the average Chinese person in ways FB only dreams about [1].

One big way WeChat has grown is through groups which act as mini marketplaces and mini newspapers. Both formed organically by anyone or any niche.

I doubt FB would care about their social network stuff declining if they can ramp up the use of mobile payments and groups. But I also have big doubts FB can rebuild the trust they lost with the early adopters to really pull off any big shift in payments. The group stuff I can see (continuing) to work with the older audience but the younger crowd is where the future is.

It’s too bad WhatsApp sold, they could be trying to do WeChat style stuff, with more privacy than FBs business model could allow.

1. https://www.wsj.com/video/series/moving-upstream/chinas-grea...