Amazon surpasses Walmart as world’s top company in sales
The Hill
by Ryan ManciniFebruary 20, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Amazon has overtaken Walmart as the world's top company in terms of annual sales, marking a significant shift in the retail industry. According to recent financial reports, Amazon reported $716.9 billion in revenue for its most recent fiscal year, edging out Walmart, which recorded $713.2 billion. This milestone comes after 13 years during which Walmart held the top spot, underscoring a dramatic turn in the competitive landscape between these two retail giants.
The rise of Amazon to this position is not without context. Walmart, traditionally known for its vast network of physical stores and supply chain dominance, has long been considered the leader in the retail sector. However, Amazon's rapid growth, particularly in e-commerce, cloud services (via AWS), and other innovative business ventures, has propelled it forward. This shift highlights the growing influence of digital transformation in retail and the ability of tech-focused companies to adapt and expand during challenging economic times.
This development carries important implications for readers interested in politics and policy. The rise of Amazon as a global economic powerhouse raises questions about corporate responsibility, antitrust regulations, and labor practices. Both companies face scrutiny regarding their business models, but their strategies differ
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Originally published on The Hill on 2/20/2026