When it comes to the intersection of consumer goods and technology, Amazon (NASDAQ: AMZN) is widely regarded as the global leader in e-commerce and cloud computing. The company’s impressive history of innovation and substantial growth has delivered substantial returns for investors, with its stock value more than doubling over the past five years.
On the other side of the world, Coupang (NYSE: CPNG) is striving to replicate Amazon’s success. As one of Asia’s largest online retailers, Coupang has become a formidable competitor in the e-commerce space. Despite a turbulent period following its 2021 IPO, the company has shown notable momentum in early 2025, with its stock soaring 70% over the past year.
Both Amazon and Coupang have compelling reasons for investors to take notice. But which is the better buy at this moment? Here’s a closer look at each company to help make a more informed decision.
The Case for Amazon
Amazon’s stock has surged 33% over the past year, a testament to its robust performance and market leadership. The company’s fourth-quarter earnings for the period ending Dec. 31, 2024, showcased significant growth. Net sales increased by 10% year-over-year, while earnings per share (EPS) skyrocketed by 86%, reaching $1.86.
A stable macroeconomic environment has contributed to sustained global consumer spending, providing a solid foundation for Amazon’s performance. Additionally, Amazon’s focus on improving operational efficiency has resulted in sharply higher margins. However, it’s the company’s dominance in artificial intelligence (AI) that really sets it apart. With leading cloud infrastructure solutions and a comprehensive suite of AI and machine learning services, Amazon is well-positioned to capitalize on the surging demand for these technologies.
Amazon’s diversification across both consumer goods and technology makes it an attractive investment. Wall Street analysts forecast another strong year for the company in 2025, with projected 10% revenue growth and a 15% increase in EPS.
For investors seeking an established powerhouse with solid fundamentals, Amazon stands out as a compelling option.
The Case for Coupang
Though smaller than Amazon, Coupang is still a massive player in the e-commerce space, generating over $30 billion in revenue in the past year. While technically headquartered in the United States, Coupang operates predominantly in South Korea, where it holds the title of the country’s dominant e-commerce player.
Coupang offers a broad range of products, including groceries, home goods, and electronics, through its online marketplace. The company’s commanding market share in South Korea has largely kept Amazon from gaining a substantial foothold in the region. Coupang’s deep understanding of the local market and consumer behavior gives it a competitive edge, allowing it to cater to the unique needs of South Korean consumers.
Despite the challenges faced after its 2021 IPO, Coupang’s ability to gain momentum in early 2025 demonstrates its resilience and potential for continued growth.
Conclusion
Both Amazon and Coupang present attractive investment opportunities. Amazon’s sheer size, diversified portfolio, and leadership in cloud computing and AI make it an appealing choice for investors seeking stability and long-term growth. Meanwhile, Coupang’s dominant position in South Korea and potential for further expansion in Asia make it a promising option for those looking for exposure to a high-growth market.
Ultimately, the choice between Amazon and Coupang depends on an investor’s risk tolerance and market outlook. While Amazon offers the security of an established industry leader, Coupang provides an opportunity to tap into the fast-growing e-commerce market in Asia.
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