During Amazon's annual shareholder meeting held virtually on February 26, 2025, CEO Andy Jassy addressed the company's performance amid ongoing economic challenges, including recent tariffs imposed by the Trump administration. Jassy reported that, to date, Amazon has not noticed any significant decrease in consumer spending or average selling prices, despite concerns raised by other retailers regarding potential price hikes due to these tariffs.
Jassy emphasized that Amazon has not experienced a downturn in demand, stating, "We have not seen any attenuation of demand at this point." He acknowledged that tariffs and trade policies are factors that could influence the company's financial guidance but maintained an optimistic outlook for the future. Jassy noted that Amazon has taken proactive measures, including "strategic forward inventory buys," aimed at keeping prices stable for consumers.
In contrast, rival retailer Walmart recently warned that consumers may soon encounter price increases linked to tariffs, prompting a response from Trump, who urged the company to absorb the costs rather than pass them onto customers. Other retailers, such as Target and Home Depot, have also indicated varying responses to the tariff situation, with Target likely needing to raise prices on some items, while Home Depot expects to maintain current pricing levels.
Throughout the meeting, Amazon investors were presented with several external proposals related to environmental and labor practices, all of which were recommended for rejection by the company. The final vote totals on these proposals are expected to be released shortly after the meeting.