Amazon.com Inc. is set to unveil its fourth-quarter earnings later today, with analysts forecasting strong results driven by artificial intelligence (AI) advancements, cloud computing expansion, and a robust holiday shopping season. In its third-quarter report, the corporate giant projected fourth-quarter net sales between $181.5 billion and $188.5 billion and operating income between $16 billion and $20 billion. Meanwhile, analysts anticipate revenue of approximately $187.44 billion, marking a 10% annual rise.

Amazon Web Services (AWS) remains a key growth driver, with a $5 billion investment in Mexico signaling long-term expansion. The company likely will not shy away from the developing artificial intelligence competition either, after its stock hit an all-time high last December largely buoyed by AI-driven innovations and sales momentum. Amazon's Chairman Jeff Bezos' decision to contribute $1 million to United States President Donald Trump's inaugural fund has also signaled engagement in Washington's AI-driven landscape. Advertisement revenue targets will also be among the tech giant's priorities amid reports it is looking to significantly increase ad spending on X.com.

However, it remains to be seen how Trump's decision to end the "de minimis" exemption, which allowed packages worth under $800 to be shipped into the US duty-free will affect the retail giant and its Chinese competitors. Some cost-cutting efforts are also evident, with Amazon ceasing operations in Quebec this January.