Category: Blog Posts

When you think about how big Amazon is, you might picture its massive warehouses or its popular Prime subscription. But for investors and business analysts, one of the most important numbers to measure Amazon’s scale is its Gross Merchandise Volume, or GMV. It’s a term that goes beyond simple sales figures to tell a much bigger story about the company’s reach.

So, what exactly is this metric? In simple terms, Gross Merchandise Volume is the total dollar value of all goods sold through the Amazon marketplace over a certain period, before any deductions for fees, shipping, or returns. It’s the raw sales number that shows the sheer volume of products moving through their digital shelves.

Why GMV Matters for Amazon’s Business

You might wonder why GMV is such a critical figure. For Amazon, it’s the engine that powers their most profitable segments. While Amazon sells its own products, a huge portion of its sales come from third-party sellers. These sellers pay Amazon fees for every item they sell—think of it as a commission. A higher GMV directly translates to more fees collected from these sellers. It also fuels their advertising business, as sellers compete for visibility on high-traffic product pages. In essence, a growing GMV means a healthier, more profitable ecosystem for Amazon.

The Difference Between GMV and Revenue

It’s easy to confuse GMV with revenue, but they are very different. Let’s use an example. If a seller lists a television for $500 and it sells on Amazon, the GMV is $500. However, Amazon’s revenue from that sale is not $500. It’s only the portion they keep, which could be a referral fee, a fulfillment fee if the seller uses FBA, and potentially an advertising fee. So, while the GMV number is massive, the revenue Amazon reports is significantly smaller, representing their cut of the total pie.

What This Number Tells Us About the Marketplace

Tracking Amazon’s GMV gives us a clear picture of the marketplace’s health and growth. A rising GMV indicates that more sellers are joining the platform and that customers are buying more items. It shows that Amazon is successfully capturing a larger share of overall e-commerce spending. For anyone involved in selling online, watching the trends in Amazon’s GMV can offer valuable insights into market competition and consumer behavior, helping to shape business strategy.

Gross Merchandise Volume is more than just a big number; it’s the heartbeat of the Amazon marketplace. It reflects the immense scale of transactions happening every second and highlights the powerful ecosystem Amazon has built, connecting millions of sellers with billions of customers worldwide.

If you’re looking forward to scoring some amazing deals, you might be wondering about the timing of Amazon’s big sales events. Many people remember that in recent years, Amazon has held a second major sale in the fall, often referred to as the “Prime Early Access Sale.” This has led to questions about whether we can expect a similar event, specifically an Amazon Prime Day in October 2024.

Let’s clear up the most common question right away. While Amazon’s plans can always change, the company has not officially announced a second Prime Day event for October 2024. The main Amazon Prime Day is historically a summer event, and for 2024, it is scheduled for July 16-17. The October sale from previous years was a separate, distinct promotion.

What to Expect for Fall 2024 Sales

Even without a confirmed second Prime Day, the fall and winter seasons are packed with savings opportunities on Amazon. The site consistently runs themed sales events leading up to the holidays. You can typically look forward to major discount events in October, such as a “Prime Big Deal Days” event or early Black Friday sales. These events often feature deal types very similar to what you find during Prime Day, including Lightning Deals and discounts across every category.

How to Stay Prepared for Any Amazon Sale

The key to taking advantage of any surprise sale is preparation. Make sure your Prime membership is active, as these exclusive deals are for members only. A great habit is to regularly update your wish list on Amazon. This not only helps you organize your shopping goals but also allows Amazon to notify you if an item on your list goes on sale. Enabling notifications for the Amazon Shopping app is another smart move to get instant alerts when major sales begin.

Finding the Best Deals When They Happen

When any sale goes live, knowing where to look can save you time and money. Always check the dedicated “Today’s Deals” page, which becomes the hub for all promotions. Keep an eye on Lightning Deals, which are limited-time offers that can sell out quickly. If you have specific high-ticket items in mind, like electronics or home appliances, use the search function to check their prices directly. Sometimes the biggest savings are on the products you’re already planning to buy.

While a dedicated October Prime Day for 2024 isn’t on the calendar, the autumn months are still a fantastic time for savvy shoppers. By marking your calendar for the July event and staying alert for fall promotions, you can be ready to grab incredible deals throughout the second half of the year.

If you’re curious about the current price of Amazon stock, you’re not alone. It’s one of the most watched and widely held stocks in the world. The price you see on any given day is a snapshot of what investors are willing to pay at that moment, reflecting a complex mix of company performance, economic news, and market sentiment. Getting a real-time quote is straightforward, but understanding what’s behind that number is where things get interesting.

Where to Find Amazon’s Current Stock Price

The easiest way to see what Amazon stock is trading for today is to check a reliable financial website or your brokerage app. Sites like Yahoo Finance, Google Finance, or Bloomberg provide up-to-the-minute pricing, often displayed with the ticker symbol AMZN. Remember, the stock market is only open on weekdays, so the price is constantly in flux from 9:30 AM to 4:00 PM Eastern Time. Outside of these hours, you might see after-hours trading prices, which can be different.

What Influences the Day-to-Day Price?

Amazon’s stock price doesn’t move in a vacuum. On any given day, it can be affected by the company’s latest earnings report, which shows its profitability and growth. Broader economic news, like inflation data or changes in interest rates, also plays a significant role. Sometimes, the price moves based on announcements about new products, like advancements in Amazon Web Services (AWS) or the launch of a new service. It’s a reflection of collective investor confidence in Amazon’s future.

A Look at the Bigger Picture

While the daily price is important, many successful investors focus on the long-term story. Instead of worrying about every single uptick and downturn, they consider Amazon’s position as a leader in e-commerce and cloud computing. They look at its history of innovation and its potential for future growth. This perspective helps them make more informed decisions rather than reacting to short-term market noise.

Thinking About Your Own Investment Strategy

If you’re considering buying Amazon stock, it’s wise to think about your personal financial goals. Are you looking for a long-term investment, or are you more interested in shorter-term movements? Remember that all investing carries risk, and a stock’s past performance does not guarantee future results. It’s always a good idea to do your own research and consider how a stock like Amazon fits into your overall portfolio.

Checking Amazon’s stock price is a simple task, but the number you see tells a much larger story about the company and the market. By looking beyond the ticker symbol and considering the factors that drive its value, you can build a much clearer picture of this market giant.

So, you’ve decided to bring a world of entertainment right to your living room with an Amazon Fire TV Stick. It’s a fantastic little device that turns any TV with an HDMI port into a smart TV, giving you access to thousands of apps, movies, and shows. But once you’ve made the decision, the next logical question is: where do you actually get one?

The good news is that Fire TV Sticks are widely available from a variety of retailers, both online and in physical stores. Whether you need it today or can wait a few days for a deal, you have plenty of options to choose from.

Your Go-To Online Retailers

For most people, the easiest place to buy a Fire TV Stick is directly from the source. Amazon.com is your best bet for finding the latest models, including the standard Fire TV Stick and the more powerful 4K Max version. Shopping on Amazon often means you’ll get the best price, especially if you catch a sale event like Prime Day. Plus, it will be shipped right to your door.

Other major online stores like BestBuy.com and Walmart.com also carry the full range of Fire TV devices. It’s always a good idea to check these sites to compare prices and shipping options, as they sometimes have their own promotions.

Finding a Fire TV Stick In-Store

If you’re the type who wants to hold the box in your hand and start streaming tonight, you’re in luck. Many brick-and-mortar stores carry Fire TV Sticks. Your local Target, Walmart, and Best Buy almost always have them in stock, typically in the electronics section near other streaming devices. It’s a good idea to use the store’s website or app to check local inventory before you make the trip.

You might also find them at office supply stores like Staples or even some grocery stores with a well-stocked electronics aisle.

A Quick Tip for the Best Deal

While the price is generally consistent, it can fluctuate. The older Fire TV Stick Lite model often goes on sale when a new version is released, making it a great budget-friendly option. If you’re not in a rush, it can be worth waiting for a major shopping holiday. Setting a price alert on the model you want can help you snag it at the lowest possible cost.

No matter which retailer you choose, adding a Fire TV Stick to your home setup is a simple process. In just a few minutes, you can be browsing through your favorite streaming services and enjoying a more connected television experience.

If you shop on Amazon frequently, you’ve probably seen the prompt to apply for an Amazon Store Card at checkout. It’s a tempting offer, promising instant savings on your purchase. But what exactly is this card, and how does it work? Let’s break it down into simple terms.

Essentially, it’s a line of credit that you can use specifically for purchases on Amazon.com, at Whole Foods Market, and on certain Amazon services. It’s not a general-purpose credit card you can use anywhere, but rather a dedicated tool for your Amazon spending.

How the Amazon Store Card Works

When you’re approved for the card, you receive a credit limit. You can then use this card as a payment method during checkout on Amazon. Each purchase you make reduces your available credit, and you’ll receive a monthly statement just like with any other credit account. You have the option to pay your balance in full each month or carry it over time, though carrying a balance will accrue interest.

The Perks of Using This Card

The most immediate benefit is the special financing offers. You’ll often see promotions like “No Interest if paid in full within 6, 12, or 24 months” on eligible purchases. This can be a great way to manage the cost of a larger item. Additionally, all cardholders earn 5% back on Amazon.com purchases if they are Prime members. If you don’t have Prime, you’ll typically earn 3% back. These rewards are issued as a credit on your Amazon.com balance, making it easy to use on your next order.

Things to Keep in Mind

It’s important to be aware of the interest rates. The standard Annual Percentage Rate (APR) for this card can be on the higher side compared to some general credit cards. If you don’t pay off a promotional purchase within the special financing period, you may be charged all the accrued interest from the purchase date. As with any credit card, making late payments can also result in fees and negatively affect your credit score.

Is It the Right Choice for You?

This card makes the most sense if you are a regular Amazon shopper, especially a Prime member, and you pay your balance in full each month to avoid interest. It’s a powerful tool for maximizing rewards on a site you already use. However, if you tend to carry a balance, the high interest rates could outweigh the benefits of the cash back.

Like any financial product, the Amazon Store Card is a tool. Used wisely, it can provide nice savings and flexible payment options for your online shopping. Just be sure to read the terms carefully and manage your payments responsibly.

You’re scrolling through Amazon, looking for a great deal, and you spot it. The item you want is listed at a significantly lower price, but the condition is marked “Used – Like New.” It sounds promising, but a little voice in your head asks, “What does that actually mean?” It’s a smart question to ask, and getting a clear picture can help you shop with confidence.

This condition label is part of Amazon’s certified refurbished and pre-owned program, which can be a fantastic way to save money. Essentially, you’re buying an item that has been returned to Amazon, but it’s been inspected and brought back to a high standard. Let’s break down what you can expect.

What “Used – Like New” Really Looks Like

When you choose an item labeled “Used – Like New,” you are getting a product that should be virtually indistinguishable from a brand-new one. According to Amazon’s guidelines, the item must be in perfect working condition with no functional defects. The original packaging might be present, but it could have minor damage, or it may have been replaced with a generic box. Crucially, any bonus items like manuals, cables, or accessories should be included, though they might be unsealed. You should not see any scratches, dents, or signs of wear on the product itself.

How Amazon Certifies These Items

This isn’t just a random label slapped on a returned box. Items sold by Amazon Warehouse as “Used – Like New” undergo a specific process. They are inspected and tested by Amazon-qualified suppliers to ensure they meet performance standards. Any necessary parts are replaced, and the product is cleaned and sanitized. Finally, it’s repackaged for sale. This certification process is what gives you the assurance that the product will work as expected, even if it’s not fresh from the factory.

Is It a Smart Choice for You?

Opting for a “Used – Like New” item can be a brilliant way to get a high-quality product for less. The primary benefit is, of course, the cost savings, which can be substantial on everything from electronics to home goods. These items come with the same return policy as new items from Amazon, typically 30 days from receipt, which provides a safety net. Just be sure to read the product description carefully for any notes about packaging or included accessories so there are no surprises.

In short, “Used – Like New” on Amazon represents a reliable and often underutilized path to significant savings. By knowing what the term entails—a fully functional, cosmetically pristine product that has been professionally inspected—you can shop these deals with peace of mind and feel great about your purchase.

Have you ever added an item to your Amazon cart and wondered when the money will actually leave your account? It’s a common question, especially when you’re budgeting or using a debit card. The timing isn’t always the same, and it depends entirely on what you’re buying and how you’re buying it.

Knowing when Amazon processes your payment can help you avoid unexpected overdraft fees and manage your finances with confidence. Let’s walk through the different scenarios so you know exactly what to expect.

When You Buy Items Sold by Amazon

For most items sold and shipped directly by Amazon, the company uses a system called authorization. When you click “Place your order,” Amazon contacts your bank or credit card company to check if the funds are available. This creates a temporary hold on the total amount. However, your card is not fully charged at this point.

The actual payment is only captured when your order ships. For items that are in stock, this usually happens within a day or two. If you’ve ordered multiple items that ship at different times, you’ll see a separate charge for each shipment as it leaves the warehouse.

How Pre-Orders and Digital Items Work

Pre-orders are a special case. For most physical items you pre-order, Amazon won’t charge you until the release date, when your item is preparing to ship. This gives you flexibility if you change your mind. For digital items like Kindle books, MP3s, or app purchases, the charge is typically immediate. The payment is processed as soon as you complete the purchase.

What About Amazon Prime and Other Subscriptions?

Subscription services like Amazon Prime, Prime Video Channels, or Kindle Unlimited operate on a different schedule. Your payment method is charged immediately when you first sign up. After that, you’ll be billed on the same date each year or month, depending on your billing cycle. You can always check your next billing date in your account settings.

A Quick Note on Pending Authorizations

Don’t be alarmed if you see a “pending” charge on your account right after ordering. This is just the authorization hold. If you cancel an item before it ships, this hold will simply drop off, usually within a few business days, and you won’t be charged.

By understanding these simple rules, you can shop on Amazon without any surprises. Keeping an eye on your order status and shipment emails is the best way to know exactly when a charge is on its way.

For centuries, the Amazons have captured our imagination. From ancient Greek pottery to modern blockbuster films, they are portrayed as a powerful society of female warriors, living independently from men. It’s easy to dismiss them as pure myth, a cautionary tale invented by Greek storytellers. But what if there was a kernel of truth behind the legend?

Archaeological discoveries are beginning to suggest that the fierce Amazon women might not have been entirely fictional. Instead, they seem to be a Greek interpretation of real, formidable nomadic tribes they encountered on the steppes.

The Archaeological Evidence Behind the Myth

Recent excavations of burial mounds across the Eurasian steppes, from Russia to Kazakhstan, have revealed something extraordinary. Archaeologists have found the graves of women buried with weapons. These aren’t just symbolic tokens; they are full battle arsenals—bows and arrows, spears, and even armor. Some of these female skeletons show clear signs of battle injuries, such as arrowheads embedded in bone and healed skull fractures. These women were not just buried as warriors; they lived and fought as warriors.

How the Stories Got Twisted

So why did the Greeks tell such fantastical stories about them? The Greeks, with their patriarchal city-states, viewed societies where women held power and fought as equals to men as completely alien. The concept was so shocking to them that it became exaggerated in their myths. The idea of the Amazons cutting off a breast to shoot a bow better (a notion not supported by any art or evidence) or living in a man-less society were likely Greek attempts to make sense of a culture that was radically different from their own. The real nomadic women were probably just highly skilled horse-riders and archers, integral to their tribe’s survival and defense.

A New Perspective on Ancient Women

This shift in understanding changes how we view ancient history. It shows that the roles of women in the ancient world were far more diverse than traditional histories often present. The existence of these warrior women confirms that female power and martial skill were not just the stuff of legend, but a reality for some cultures. It encourages us to look past the Greek spin and appreciate the complex tapestry of human societies that existed.

While there may not have been a literal city of Themyscira, the Amazons were very likely real. They were the formidable, horse-riding women of the steppes, whose impressive way of life was so remarkable that their story has been told for thousands of years.

If you’re selling on Amazon, you’ve likely heard the term “marketplace payments,” but what does it actually mean for your business? Essentially, it’s the system Amazon uses to collect money from your customers and then pay you, the seller. Instead of handling credit card transactions yourself, Amazon manages it all, providing a secure and streamlined process.

This centralized system is designed to make your life easier. It consolidates your earnings from all your sales, whether they’re from individual customers or larger orders, into a single, predictable disbursement.

How Your Amazon Payments Land in Your Account

The process is quite straightforward. When a customer buys your product, their payment is authorized. The funds are then held by Amazon until the order is confirmed shipped and the delivery window passes. This is part of their commitment to customer trust. After this period, the net amount—which is the sale price minus any Amazon selling fees and other deductions—is added to your account balance.

Amazon then sends this balance to your registered bank account on a regular schedule, typically every 24 hours, but for some accounts, it might be every 14 days. You can see a detailed breakdown of every transaction in your Seller Central account.

What Gets Deducted From Your Sales

It’s important to know that the full sale price doesn’t go directly into your pocket. Amazon deducts several fees before issuing your payment. The most common is the referral fee, a percentage of the sale price that varies by product category. If you use Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA), you’ll also see fulfillment fees for picking, packing, shipping, and customer service. Other potential costs include storage fees for FBA inventory and advertising fees if you run Sponsored Products campaigns.

Keeping Track of Your Finances

Staying on top of your payments is simple with Amazon’s reporting tools. The Payment Summary page in Seller Central is your financial hub. It shows your current balance, the date of your next disbursement, and a complete history of past payments. For a granular view, you can generate a Transaction View report, which lists every single fee and sale, helping you understand exactly where your money is going and how profitable each item is.

By familiarizing yourself with the Amazon marketplace payments system, you can better manage your cash flow and make more informed decisions for your business. It’s a powerful behind-the-scenes partner that handles the complex financial logistics, allowing you to focus on what you do best—growing your sales.

Finding an empty doorstep where an Amazon package should be is a frustrating and violating experience. You’ve been waiting for that delivery, only to discover it’s vanished without a trace. Please know you’re not alone, and this situation is more common than you might think. The good news is that there are clear steps you can take to resolve the issue and, in many cases, get a replacement or a refund.

First, Check the Delivery Status and Your Property

Before you do anything else, take a deep breath and check the Amazon app or your email for the delivery confirmation. Sometimes, drivers mark a package as delivered before it actually arrives. It’s also worth taking a quick walk around your property. Check behind planters, under welcome mats, or with a neighbor. Carriers sometimes place packages in what they consider a “safe spot” that isn’t immediately visible from the street.

Contact Amazon Customer Service Directly

If your search comes up empty, your next step is to get in touch with Amazon. They have a robust A-to-Z Guarantee that protects purchases. You can contact them through their website or app. Explain the situation calmly and provide your order number. In many instances, especially if the package was shipped by Amazon, they will send a replacement or issue a full refund at no extra cost. They are generally very understanding about stolen packages.

Consider Filing a Police Report

For high-value items or if you live in an area with frequent package theft, it can be helpful to file a report with your local police department. While they may not be able to recover your specific package, having an official report creates a paper trail. This documentation can be useful for your own records and helps law enforcement track crime trends in your neighborhood.

Preventing Future Package Theft

Once your immediate issue is resolved, it’s a good time to think about prevention. Amazon offers several secure delivery options. You can have packages sent to an Amazon Locker for pickup at a nearby retail location. You can also provide delivery instructions to place items in a less visible area, or require a one-time password for delivery. Investing in a security camera or a porch lockbox can also provide significant peace of mind.

Dealing with a stolen package is undeniably stressful, but a swift and methodical approach usually leads to a positive resolution. By checking your property, contacting Amazon, and considering future preventative measures, you can navigate this unfortunate situation and feel more secure about your online orders moving forward.