Marketplaces Rick Watson Marketplaces Rick Watson

Amazon Q4 Earnings Wins the Grammy for Free Cash Flow: "They Not Like Us"

Amazon's Q4 2024 earnings report reveals a 10% increase in net sales to $187.8 billion and a doubling of net income to $20 billion. The North America segment's operating income rose by 43%, while the International segment shifted from a $400 million loss to a $1.3 billion profit. AWS operating income grew by 62%, with a $115 billion annual run rate. The article delves into these financial milestones and Amazon's strategic investments in AI and cloud computing.

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Supply Chain Rick Watson Supply Chain Rick Watson

UPS Q4 2024: Steering Towards Margin, Away From Amazon

Discover how UPS is shifting its strategy by reducing reliance on Amazon, optimizing costs, and focusing on higher-margin customers. This article explores key changes in Amazon’s contract, USPS service adjustments, and UPS’s plan to improve domestic operating margins. Learn how these moves impact the supply chain and what it means for businesses relying on UPS for shipping.

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Consulting Rick Watson Consulting Rick Watson

Why Aren't We Growing Faster?

Discover common reasons why businesses struggle to grow and how to overcome them. This article explores key factors like brand clarity, customer understanding, competitive positioning, team effectiveness, and strategic consistency. Learn why technology isn’t a silver bullet and why patience and adaptability are essential for sustainable growth. Find out if your business is making critical mistakes and how to get back on track.

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Consulting Rick Watson Consulting Rick Watson

Is 2025 The Year of the Niche Down?

Discover the key trends shaping 2025, from the rise of niche-focused businesses to shifts in global trade and supply chain strategies. Learn how SaaS valuations are stabilizing, why "de-Chinafication" is reshaping economies, and what challenges consumers still face.

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