eBay - online marketplace

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eBay is an American multinational e-commerce corporation founded by Pierre Omidyar in September 1995. It operates as an online marketplace where individuals and businesses can buy and sell a wide variety of goods and services. eBay initially gained attention for its auction-style listings, allowing users to place bids on items and compete with others, although it also supports fixed-price listings.

The platform covers a broad range of product categories, including electronics, fashion, collectibles, vehicles, and home goods. Sellers can list new or used items, making eBay a popular destination for both secondhand and rare goods, such as collectibles and vintage items. Buyers can either bid on auctioned items or purchase them immediately if the seller offers a "Buy It Now" option.

eBay operates globally and supports numerous localized websites to cater to specific markets. It allows transactions in multiple currencies and offers tools like PayPal (formerly owned by eBay) and other payment methods to facilitate secure transactions. Over the years, eBay expanded its platform to include eBay Stores, where sellers can open virtual storefronts and manage their inventory more effectively.

In 2002, eBay acquired PayPal, which became the primary payment processor for transactions on the platform until it was spun off as a separate company in 2015. The company has also made other significant acquisitions, including StubHub, a ticket exchange service, and several classified ad platforms, although it has since sold StubHub.

eBay introduced several key features to enhance user trust and security. Its feedback system allows buyers and sellers to leave reviews, fostering a sense of community accountability. Additionally, eBay provides buyer protection programs to ensure that users receive items as described or are refunded in cases of fraud or disputes.

While eBay was a pioneer in online auctions, it faces competition from other e-commerce platforms like Amazon. In response, eBay has focused more on fixed-price sales and simplifying the user experience for both buyers and sellers. The company has also embraced mobile commerce, offering apps for smartphones and tablets to keep up with modern shopping trends.

As of 2024, eBay continues to be a major player in e-commerce, with millions of active buyers and sellers across the globe. The platform remains a popular choice for unique items, collectibles, and both new and used goods.