Facebook records higher profits, more friends

Facebook shares rallied on a stronger-than-expected earnings report which showed the social network gained users in Europe and the United States despite privacy challenges. [Photo: AFP]

Facebook said Wednesday that quarterly profit climbed to an all-time record $6.9 billion as it boosted its global user base despite scandals that have dented the leading social network's image.

Revenue soared 30 percent from a year ago to $16.9 billion while the number of people using Facebook monthly rose nine percent to 2.32 billion, the company said in its fourth quarter update.