Amazon.com IncOptions imply large post-earnings swing; AWS acceleration is positive but AI capex spending risk is negative, creating mixed outlook.

Amazon options traders are bracing for a nearly 7% move after Thursday's second-quarter report, with an at-the-money July 31 straddle costing about $15.60 and implying a Friday range of roughly $211.05 to $242.25. The bullish skew reflects expectations that Amazon Web Services will accelerate, but heavy downside hedging signals concern that another costly AI-spending outlook could reverse optimism. Call activity concentrated around $240 and $255, while elevated put volume at $205 and $220 indicated protection against a sharp disappointment. Wall Street expects approximately $197 billion in revenue and earnings of $1.82 per share, with AWS cloud revenue growth seen accelerating to about 31% from 28% in the first quarter. Capital spending remains the central risk after trailing free cash flow fell to $1.2 billion in the first quarter as property and equipment purchases increased by $59.3 billion, primarily due to AI investment.
Amazon.com IncOptions imply large post-earnings swing; AWS acceleration is positive but AI capex spending risk is negative, creating mixed outlook.