The decision to build a private cloud sets back other priorities, like competing with Amazon on Grocery. It may, or may not, pay off for Walmart. If Walmart did store their data in Amazon's cloud, it is possible Amazon could use that information (sales, prices, etc) to more efficiently compete.

Conversely, if Netflix built out their own cloud, it could have come at the expense of delivering more content, which could risk unseat their position as the leader of streaming space.

Great points. I understand that it comes with an expense, but "I think" in the long run it would benefit them.

> Conversely, if Netflix built out their own cloud Well, they don't have to build their own cloud. They can use other cloud providers still.

Netflix stores their data on AWS (and probably spends more money than Walmart on it). Amazon could use that money to improve Amazon Prime Video (which competes directly with Netflix).

Because AWS is a huge profit center for Amazon, they are able to invest those profits into reducing prices on the retail side of their business - amazon.com. Netflix doesn't compete with Amazon's retail business, Walmart most certainly does.

OP said “Amazon is their biggest competitor” because of Amazon Prime video