Google, Facebook Ad Sales Seen Rising Even Amid Privacy Woes

Concerns over privacy and regulation aren’t hurting Facebook Inc. and Google where it matters -- their multibillion dollar advertising businesses.

As the internet giants prepare to report fourth-quarter earnings, most industry analysts say growing consumer spending and the continued march from in-store to online commerce will keep digital advertising growing. That’s something investors are keen to see after a year of damaging headlines, congressional hearings and a painful share sell-off.