ZACKS·2025-12-24 17:42Core Insights - The e-commerce market is experiencing growth through innovation and technology, with Q3 2025 e-commerce sales increasing by 5.1% compared to Q3 2024, while total retail sales rose by 4.1% [1] - E-commerce now represents approximately 16.4% of total U.S. retail sales, with a trend towards blending online and offline shopping experiences [2] - Companies that can effectively operate in both online and offline channels are positioned to compete successfully in the future [2] Industry Trends - The convenience of online shopping is a primary driver of e-commerce growth, particularly among Gen-Z consumers who are accustomed to high levels of digitization [4] - Social media platforms are influencing shopping behaviors, with digital influencers playing a significant role in shaping consumer preferences [5] - AI is becoming a major enabler of e-commerce, with Adobe estimating a 515-520% increase in AI-driven traffic to retail websites during the 2025 holiday season [9] Company Insights - Expedia Group, Inc. (EXPE): The company is experiencing growth in both B2C and B2B segments, with total gross bookings increasing by 12% and B2B bookings rising by 26% [23] [24] - Analysts are optimistic about Expedia, with earnings estimates for 2025 increasing by 6.8% and for 2026 by 9.2% [26] - Amazon, Inc. (AMZN): Amazon maintains a dominant position in the online marketplace and is leveraging its Prime loyalty program to drive sales [28] - Despite recent challenges, including a settlement with the FTC and layoffs, analysts expect Amazon to achieve double-digit revenue and earnings growth in the coming years [30][32]