Top 3 Stocks to Buy Today

Amazon: Leading in Two High-Growth Industries

Amazon (NASDAQ: AMZN) is not just a household name; it's a dominant force in two of the most dynamic sectors today—e-commerce and cloud computing. The company has maintained its leadership by continuously investing in innovation and expanding its reach. According to the U.S. Department of Commerce, e-commerce has steadily increased as a percentage of retail sales, with Amazon capturing about 40% of the U.S. market. This massive lead allows Amazon to leverage its technology, supplier relationships, and talent to offer competitive pricing and an ever-improving customer experience.

In addition to e-commerce, Amazon's cloud division, Amazon Web Services (AWS), holds nearly a third of the global cloud market. The company's substantial investments in artificial intelligence (AI) have further strengthened its position, making AWS more attractive to new clients. These AI advancements are not only enhancing the AI business itself but also driving greater interest in cloud services, where AI applications are rapidly evolving.

Beyond these core businesses, Amazon continues to expand into other areas such as advertising and streaming, ensuring that it remains a multifaceted giant in the tech and retail space. With ongoing growth and a focus on long-term value creation, Amazon is well-positioned to continue delivering returns to shareholders.

E.l.f. Beauty: Rising Star in the Cosmetics Industry

E.l.f. Beauty (NYSE: ELF) has emerged as a top player in the mass color cosmetics market, gaining favor among younger consumers who are drawn to its affordable pricing and quality products. The brand has taken a strategic approach to growth by acquiring luxury brands like Rhode and expanding its skincare line, which is already ranked in the top 10 but still has significant room for expansion.

Despite a slowdown in overall industry sales due to economic pressures, E.l.f. Beauty continues to grow its market share. In the 2025 fiscal fourth quarter, the company reported a 4% increase in sales and a 28% rise for the full year. Its earnings per share (EPS) of $0.78 exceeded Wall Street expectations, showing strong performance even in a challenging environment.

While the stock has declined by 34% over the past year, this dip presents an opportunity for investors looking to enter at a more favorable price point. E.l.f. Beauty’s continued innovation and brand expansion suggest that it could be a compelling long-term investment.

Carnival: Strong Demand and Debt Management

Carnival (NYSE: CCL, NYSE: CUK) has shown resilience and strong performance in recent quarters, particularly after recovering from the challenges posed by the pandemic. The company's revenue increased by 9% year-over-year in the 2025 fiscal second quarter, with adjusted net income nearly tripling compared to the previous year. Adjusted EPS of $0.35 surpassed analysts' expectations, indicating robust financial health.

Carnival has maintained high occupancy rates and ticket prices, supported by strong demand for its cruises. Additionally, the company is seeing significant engagement from nonticket revenue streams such as food and entertainment. Management is also investing in future growth by launching new ships and destinations, which should help drive repeat business and attract new customers.

Although Carnival's stock is still 59% below its peak, the company has made progress in reducing its debt load. It has been paying down debt efficiently and is now within one rating level of being considered investment-worthy. Once it reaches that threshold, the stock could see a significant upward move, given its strong performance and continued demand.

Other Considerations

For investors considering a $1,000 investment in Amazon or other stocks, it's important to evaluate the broader market trends and individual company fundamentals. While Amazon remains a powerhouse, other companies like E.l.f. Beauty and Carnival offer unique opportunities for growth and value. As always, thorough research and careful analysis are key to making informed investment decisions.