Amazon Com Stock Price, News & Analysis

Amazon has unveiled its Prime Early Access Sale scheduled for October 11-12, providing exclusive discounts for Prime members on thousands of products. Notable offers include 80% off select Fire TV smart TVs, 50% off JBL, Sony, and Bose audio products, and first-time 15% off Peloton Bikes. The event will showcase deals across various categories, including electronics, home goods, and toys, highlighting support for small and medium-sized businesses. Prime members will also receive 20% off Grubhub orders and promotional credits for gift card purchases.

Amazon announces the launch of Amazon Catalytic Capital, a new initiative investing $150 million in VC funds supporting underrepresented founders. This program aims to support over 200 companies through mentorship and resources while focusing on Black, Latino, Indigenous, women, and LGBTQIA+ entrepreneurs. Initial investments include Collide Capital, Elevate Future Fund, Share Ventures, and TechStars. The initiative addresses historical funding inequities, aiming to catalyze economic growth and job creation in underserved communities.

Amazon Web Services (AWS) has introduced two new statistics—Win Probability and Pressure Handling—as part of the Bundesliga Match Facts, enhancing insights into match dynamics. Win Probability tracks shifts in a team’s chances to win, while Pressure Handling identifies players' escape rates under pressure, utilizing comprehensive match data. These updates, launching on Matchday 8, expand the AWS-powered statistics to a total of 12, leveraging 3.6 million real-time data points for more engaging fan experiences.

Amazon Web Services (AWS) and SK Telecom have announced a collaboration to develop new computer vision services at the Mobile World Congress in Las Vegas. This initiative aims to simplify and reduce the costs of building and scaling computer vision applications, enhancing productivity and operational safety across various sectors, including agriculture and manufacturing. The services will leverage SK Telecom's AI models and AWS's edge services, enabling organizations to analyze data flexibly at the edge, in the cloud, or on-premises.

Amazon has announced the continuation of its Community Lending program in partnership with Lendistry, aimed at supporting small businesses in underserved communities. Following a successful pilot, the program has provided over $35 million to more than 800 sellers, exceeding its initial $10 million target. Over the next three years, it plans to deploy $150 million in loans ranging from $10,000 to $250,000. These funds will assist businesses in inventory expansion, staffing, and marketing.

Amazon announced a nearly $1 billion investment for pay increases for U.S. front-line employees starting in October, raising the average starting pay to over $19 per hour. The company also introduced Anytime Pay, allowing employees to access up to 70% of their earned pay at any time without fees. Additionally, Amazon is expanding its career development programs, aiming to upskill 300,000 employees by 2025. Overall, total investments in employee benefits for the year reach nearly $10 billion.

The new Fire TV Cube, announced by Amazon (NASDAQ: AMZN), is the most powerful Fire TV streaming player to date, featuring a 20% performance boost over its predecessor. It introduces industry-first HDMI input and Wi-Fi 6E support for enhanced connectivity. Additionally, the Alexa Voice Remote Pro offers a Remote Finder feature and customizable buttons for easier access to favorite content. Both products prioritize sustainability with ENERGY STAR certification and reduced carbon footprints. The Fire TV Cube is available for pre-order at $139.99, while the Alexa Voice Remote Pro is priced at $34.99.

Amazon (NASDAQ: AMZN) has launched the new Echo Dot and Echo Dot with Clock, featuring enhanced audio, a temperature sensor, and eero mesh Wi-Fi capabilities. The Echo Studio has improved sound technology for a more immersive experience. Echo Auto introduces a compact design for in-car convenience. New Echo Dot Kids designs aim to engage children with interactive features. All devices are made with sustainable materials and will be available for preorder, shipping next month.