Why Amazon Stock Gains on Earnings, Unlike Meta and Microsoft

WTS Capital
November 1, 2024

Amazon's recent third-quarter earnings report has sparked significant interest in the stock market, showcasing a notable increase in its stock price. Unlike its competitors, Meta and Microsoft, Amazon's performance has been buoyed by strong financial results and optimistic guidance, leading analysts to highlight the unique factors contributing to its success.

Key Takeaways

  • Amazon reported earnings of $1.43 per share, surpassing the expected $1.16.
  • Net sales reached $158.9 billion, exceeding the forecast of $157.29 billion.
  • The company projects Q4 net sales between $181.5 billion and $188.5 billion.
  • Analysts attribute Amazon's stock gains to its diversified revenue streams and lower dependency on external chip suppliers.

Strong Earnings Report

Amazon's third-quarter results exceeded Wall Street expectations, with earnings per share (EPS) of $1.43 compared to a consensus estimate of $1.16. The company's net sales also outperformed forecasts, coming in at $158.9 billion against an expected $157.29 billion. This strong performance has led to a positive outlook for the upcoming quarter, with projections for net sales ranging from $181.5 billion to $188.5 billion, surpassing the Wall Street estimate of $186.36 billion.

Comparison With Competitors

While Amazon's stock has seen gains, its competitors, Meta and Microsoft, have faced challenges. Analysts note that investors are less concerned about Amazon's capital spending on artificial intelligence (AI) compared to the apprehensions surrounding Meta and Microsoft. This difference can be attributed to several factors:

  1. Diverse Revenue Streams: Amazon's business model includes e-commerce, advertising, and Amazon Web Services (AWS), providing multiple avenues for growth and margin expansion.
  2. In-House AI Development: Unlike Microsoft, which relies heavily on Nvidia for AI chips, Amazon has developed its own AI chips, reducing its vulnerability to supply chain constraints.
  3. Market Confidence: The market appears to have more confidence in Amazon's ability to manage its investments in AI without compromising profitability.

Future Outlook

Looking ahead, Amazon's guidance for Q4 indicates a robust growth trajectory. The company anticipates operating income between $16 billion and $20 billion, compared to the estimated $17.49 billion. This optimistic outlook is supported by the company's strategic investments in technology and infrastructure, positioning it well for continued success in the competitive landscape.

Conclusion

Amazon's strong earnings report and positive guidance have set it apart from competitors like Meta and Microsoft. With a diversified business model, in-house technology development, and a focus on profitability, Amazon's stock gains reflect investor confidence in its future growth potential. As the company continues to innovate and expand its offerings, it remains a key player in the tech industry, poised for further success in the coming quarters.

Sources

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