Many analysts shrug.
This is the first time that Amazon which has said repeatedly that it hopes to report pro-forma operating profits in the fourth quarter of this year has given such guidance for 2002. During the meeting, various Amazon executives tried to reassure investors and analysts gathered here that the company is poised to continue growing briskly while improving efficiency. Yet Amazon announced no major new initiatives, such as partnerships with other retailers or the immediate launch of new product lines. Several analysts polled during a break from the conference said they were underwhelmed by the presentations. Amazon did say that it hopes to continue driving growth in its existing product line in part through its ability to market directly to customers.