Zuckerberg: not just
any pretty face

In yet another sign pointing to Facebook's explosive growth, Microsoft has expressed interest in buying a stake that could value the social network at US$ 10 billion or more if talks prove successful.

The deal would entail that Microsoft pay between US$ 300 million and US$ 500 million for an up-to-five percent stake, according to the Wall Street Journal. Google is also interested in a stake, according to people "familiar with the matter."

US$ 10 billion is high considering Facebook only took in US$ 150 million in revenue and US$ 30 million in profit this year. But the move may strengthen Microsoft's ad platform, which, is currently playing catch-up to the likes of Yahoo and Google.

The 40-million strong social network already holds an exclusive ad deal with Microsoft that is expected to rake in US$ 75 million this year alone.