Meta announced its first-ever dividend in February 2024, after a "Year of Efficiency" with layoffs and investments in AI and the metaverse. The $0.50 per share dividend will be paid on March 26th to shareholders as of February 22nd, with quarterly payouts going forward. Top shareholders like Vanguard, BlackRock, and Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg stand to gain the most, with Zuckerberg expecting a $175 million payout. Dividends are uncommon for tech companies but will reward Meta shareholders with consistent passive income.