Both Amazon (NASDAQ: AMZN) and Coupang (NYSE: CPNG) are making waves in the e-commerce and technology sectors, but which stock is the better investment right now? Let’s dive in.
The Case for Amazon
Amazon has proven itself as a global leader in e-commerce and cloud computing, and its stock has rewarded shareholders handsomely. The company’s fourth-quarter earnings report (for the period ended Dec. 31, 2024) showed a 10% year-over-year increase in net sales coupled with an 86% increase in earnings per share (EPS). This strong performance stems from a resilient macroeconomic environment and the company’s strategic improvements in operational efficiencies.
Perhaps even more important is Amazon’s leadership in artificial intelligence (AI). The company offers critical cloud infrastructure solutions and an array of AI and machine learning services in high demand. According to Wall Street analysts, 2025 should bring around a 10% revenue growth and a 15% increase in EPS, making Amazon a solid choice for investors seeking a well-established company with robust fundamentals.
The Case for Coupang
Coupang, while smaller than Amazon, is a significant player, generating more than $30 billion in revenue in the past year. Headquartered in the U.S., the company predominantly operates in South Korea as the country’s leading e-commerce platform, selling everything from groceries to electronics. Coupang’s strong market share in South Korea has kept Amazon from gaining a major foothold there, giving Coupang a competitive edge by understanding its customers so well.
Coupang is also expanding into Asia, with logistics hubs in Singapore and Taiwan, as well as through acquisitions like the luxury fashion online marketplace Farfetch. Additionally, Coupang has expanded into services like Coupang Eats (food delivery) and Coupang Pay (fintech). Wall Street analysts predict a 24% revenue growth for 2024 with the revenue growth expected to reach 15% in 2025. Even more promising, Coupang is projected to reach an EPS of $0.50 in 2025, a significant leap from the $0.01 estimated for 2024.
The stock trades at a forward price-to-earnings (P/E) ratio of 51, a premium compared to Amazon’s forward earnings multiple of 35. This higher valuation could be justified by Coupang’s stronger earnings momentum, fueled by the company’s rapid expansions into emerging markets.
Which Company Presents the Better Investment Opportunity?
While it’s tough to pick between the two, Coupang might have an edge in 2025, as the company reaches a turning point in profitability. This could boost shares higher and outperform Amazon in the long run.
