The Howdy Glossary

eBay is a global e-commerce platform that enables users to buy and sell products using various formats, including auctions and fixed-price sales. Founded in 1995 by Pierre Omidyar as AuctionWeb, it has evolved into a prominent marketplace connecting millions of buyers and sellers across different categories worldwide. The platform was envisioned to democratize online shopping and create a space for global commerce.

eBay differentiates itself from competitors like Amazon, Etsy, and Walmart through its unique auction format, offering flexibility in how items are listed and sold. It allows buyers to search for specific items easily through categories and search tools, thus enhancing the shopping experience. Moreover, eBay's focus on new, refurbished, collectible items and its global reach contribute to a vast selection of products not commonly found on other platforms.

The platform’s auction feature fosters competitive pricing and exciting shopping experiences. Its broad selection includes both new and used products catering to diverse interests while enabling international trade due to its global presence. Additionally, eBay's seller feedback system enhances trust within the platform by providing valuable information for informed purchasing decisions. This versatility attracts individual consumers seeking varied products, small businesses aiming for a global audience, and larger companies expanding their market reach.