**Amazon Stock: Navigating the Dip with Caution**
Amazon (AMZN) stock has been on a rollercoaster ride in recent months, plummeting almost 20% in the past month due to a combination of factors, including a possible recession and increased capital expenditures. Despite these challenges, analysts remain optimistic about the company's long-term prospects, particularly driven by the robust growth of Amazon Web Services (AWS).
### AWS: The Star of Q2 2024
AWS was the standout performer in Amazon's Q2 2024 financials, growing at an impressive 19% year-over-year (YOY) to $26.38 billion, surpassing analyst expectations. This growth underscores AWS's resilience and its potential to continue driving Amazon's revenue in the coming quarters.
### Capital Expenditures: A Double-Edged Sword
While AWS's success is a positive sign, Amazon's increased capital expenditures (Capex) pose a significant risk. The company's Capex surged to $17.62 billion in the latest quarter, a level not seen in recent years. This substantial investment is aimed at enhancing AWS capabilities, expanding Project Kuiper (a satellite-based broadband initiative), and improving logistics and automating warehouses. However, it also means that Amazon will be held to a higher standard for growth in future quarters, potentially limiting the stock's immediate performance.
### Valuation: A Bargain or a Trap?
Despite the challenges, Amazon's valuation appears to be attractive. The stock price is currently around $162.77, significantly lower than the average price target of $201.99 set by Wall Street analysts. This discrepancy suggests that the stock could be undervalued, making it an attractive buy for investors willing to take on the risk associated with Amazon's current trajectory.
### Mixed Sentiment and Analyst Opinions
While some analysts remain bullish on Amazon, others are cautious due to the economic uncertainty and increased Capex. Out of the 54 Wall Street analysts following the company, the price targets range from $164.37 to $229.20, indicating a broad range of opinions on the stock's potential. Despite these mixed sentiments, 95% of Amazon stock analysts have a buy rating, according to FactSet, which underscores the overall optimism about the company's long-term prospects.
### Conclusion
Amazon's stock price, currently around $162.77, presents an intriguing opportunity for investors. While the company