Amazon.com reported higher-than-expected profit and sales for the third quarter, bolstered by improved retail sales.

The company’s shares rose 5.7% in after-hours trading following the announcement.

For the quarter ending September 30, Amazon recorded a 7% increase in retail sales, totaling US$61.41 billion.

This gain during after-hours trading offset earlier declines during regular trading.

Amazon expects strong results for the holiday quarter.

This prediction is driven by faster shipping times and a focus on lower-cost items.