A Business Overview and Contemporary Focus. Founded in 1850, American Express operates as a global services company focused on providing card payment and travel

American Express Co. profits increased 12% as well-heeled consumers spent more than analysts expected on their credit cards over the holidays, a tailwind the firm said it expects will continue.

Q4 total network volume of $464.0B, vs. the Visible Alpha consensus of $458.2B, vs. $434.4B in the year-ago quarter. Network volume grew 7% Y/Y, accelerating from 5% Y/Y growth in Q3. Total billed business increased 8% Y/Y to $408.4B, compared with 6% growth in Q3.