The Intelligence from The Economist Leader of the package: Amazon turns 30
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Jul 4, 2024 
Guy Scriven, Technology editor at The Economist, provides an in-depth look at Amazon's remarkable 30-year journey from a small online bookstore to a global powerhouse. Lena Shipper, South Asia bureau chief, highlights the fallout of India's university entrance exam scandal, revealing public outrage and government struggles. The podcast also humorously contrasts these serious topics with discussions about durian, the controversial fruit becoming a geopolitical tool due to its rising popularity in China. Expect a mix of insight and humor!
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Amazon's Humble Beginnings
- Amazon started in 1994 as Kadabra, posting a job ad seeking software engineers.
- The company's initial name, Kadabra, was changed due to its similarity to "cadaver."
Amazon's Massive Growth
- Amazon's growth includes a 40% share of the US online retail market, plus advertising and cloud computing dominance.
- It continues to innovate with gadgets like Kindle and Echo, and pursues moonshot projects like Zoox.
Amazon's Success Factors
- Amazon's success stems from its customer-centric culture, focus on invention, and willingness to experiment.
- Reinvesting profits instead of paying dividends fuels their high capital spending and R&D.