Global Markets Update: Amazon Leads the Charge

In a mixed bag of economic news, Amazon's booming cloud computing business helped push the world's largest online retailer to new heights. However, a softer-than-expected sales outlook weighed on medical device firm Medtronic.

Amazon's Cloud Computing Surge

Amazon Web Services (AWS), the company's cloud computing arm, has been a key driver of its growth. On Friday, October 31, 2025, AWS reported significant revenue gains, sending Amazon's stock price soaring.

AWS Key Highlights:

• Revenue Growth: AWS generated $14.8 billion in revenue, up 28% year-over-year.
• New Customers: The company welcomed over 1 million new customers to its platform.
• Expansion into New Markets: AWS expanded its presence into new markets, including the Middle East and Africa.

The success of AWS can be attributed to the growing demand for cloud-based services. As more businesses shift their focus towards digital transformation, AWS is well-positioned to capitalize on this trend.

Amazon's Strong Q3 Results

While AWS was the standout performer, Amazon as a whole reported strong quarterly results. The company generated $96 billion in revenue, up 10% year-over-year.

Key Highlights:

• Revenue Growth: Amazon's total revenue grew by 10% year-over-year.
• Operating Income: The company reported an operating income of $3.7 billion, down from $4.1 billion in Q2.
• Guidance: Amazon provided a slightly weaker-than-expected sales outlook for the fourth quarter.

Medical Device Firm Medtronic Suffers

Medtronic, a leading medical device firm, reported a softer-than-expected sales outlook. The company's revenue growth was slower than expected, and its stock price took a hit as a result.

Key Highlights:

• Revenue Growth: Medtronic reported revenue growth of 4.5%, down from 8.5% in Q2.
• Guidance: The company provided a slightly weaker-than-expected sales outlook for the fourth quarter.
• Stock Price: Medtronic's stock price fell by 3% following the announcement.

The disappointing results at Medtronic can be attributed to a combination of factors, including increased competition in the medical device industry and rising costs associated with regulatory compliance.

Market Reaction

The mixed news from Amazon and Medtronic had a mixed impact on global markets. The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell by 0.2% while the S&P 500 Index rose by 0.1%.

Key Takeaways:

• Amazon's strong cloud computing business helped drive growth, but its sales outlook for Q4 was slightly weaker than expected.
• Medtronic's disappointing results weighed on its stock price and highlighted the challenges facing the medical device industry.

As we head into the final quarter of the year, investors will be closely watching Amazon's progress in its cloud computing business and Medtronic's efforts to regain momentum.