Amazon's (AMZN) Q4 results outshine expectations, propelling the stock over 8% higher in after-hours trading.
The e-commerce giant reported earnings per share of $1.00, surpassing the 80 cents anticipated by LSEG. Revenue also exceeded forecasts at $170 billion, compared to the expected $166.2 billion.
The tech giant's optimistic outlook for Q1 further fueled investor enthusiasm. Amazon anticipates Q1 sales between $138 billion and $143.5 billion, marking an 8% to 13% growth. This forecast surpasses analysts' expectations of $142.1 billion.
CEO Andy Jassy's cost-cutting initiatives showed significant impact as net income surged to $10.6 billion, a stark contrast to the $278 million reported a year earlier. The strategic move to lay off 27,000 employees and trim unproven ventures contributed to this impressive financial performance.
Amazon's robust Q4 results were fueled by successful holiday shopping events and the October Prime Day, exceeding the company's expectations. The shift to eight distinct regional fulfillment networks in the US, initiated in 2023, significantly improved delivery speeds, contributing to increased purchase frequency by Prime members.
In the cloud computing domain, Amazon Web Services (AWS) posted a 13% growth to $24.2 billion, indicating a positive turnaround from the previous quarter. AWS is nearing an annualized revenue run rate of $100 billion, with notable new deals signed with companies like Salesforce, BMW, NVIDIA, and LG.
Amazon's advertising unit experienced a 27% YoY growth to $14.7 billion, driven by sponsored ads. The recent introduction of sponsored TV on Prime Video is expected to generate substantial revenue.
The company's focus on cost efficiency and strategic investments in AI, including generative AI products like "Q," bodes well for its future revenue potential. Amazon's stock surge is accompanied by target raises from analysts, with Monness Crespi & Hardt setting a target of $215 and Telsey Advisory Group raising it to $200.
Despite regulatory challenges and economic uncertainties, Amazon's strong Q4 performance and forward-looking strategies position it favorably for future growth across various business segments.
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