Top 5 this week

1. Amazon reportedly submits last-minute bid to acquire TikTok

“Amazon’s bid for TikTok highlights the intense competition for control over the platform’s U.S. operations. If successful, Amazon could leverage its data and infrastructure to dominate the short-form video space, integrating TikTok with its growing ad ecosystem. This move could significantly impact the digital advertising landscape. Other bids, like that of “small” business owner Reid Ranser’s of 50MM, so you would have to assume that Amazon’s bid is north of that. Microsoft and Oracle are in the mix too. My money is on the big players. Let’s wait and see.” ~Clayton Atchison

2. Amazon can now buy products from other websites for you

“ The new Buy For Me feature is getting tested in big ways by Amazon. This new feature will allow Amazon to make a purchase on behalf of the customer for products from off-Amazon sites. Keep your eye out for early access opportunities for your seller account.” ~Nater Youngchild

3. Which products will get pricier under Trump’s new tariff policies?

“Brands should brace for higher costs as U.S. tariffs rise—a 10% universal tariff on all imports plus reciprocal tariffs on over 60 countries. China faces an additional 34% on select goods like electronics and toys, which is likely to affect the holiday buying season and have a ripple effect on consumer spending. While shifting sourcing may help, brands must keep in mind the reciprocal rates of other countries similarly impacted.” ~Chelsea Cohen

4. Amazon wants to turn your photo library into a marketplace search feature

“Amazon Photos’ new AI tool turns your personal pics into product search—just tap and shop. Google Lens has done this for years, but Amazon’s move feels different. It’s not just smart, it’s invasive. Every corner of your digital life is becoming shoppable: Alexa, Insights, Rufus. Useful? Maybe. Sellers, visual SEO just got even more critical.” ~Vanessa Hung

5. Amazon Seller Updates: AI Commerce & Retail Rivalries

“It’s always hard to tell what’s more substance than hype in the AI news cycle. That said, Amazon’s new ‘Nova Act’ seems particularly promising, especially for small nimble businesses. The pitch is to be able to automate any web browser task; for now I’d encourage experimentation to find the handful of key automations that work for you and hopefully saves you loads of time.” ~Nikko Patten

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