GameStop Proposes $56 Billion Acquisition of eBay with Potential Hostile Approach

Mon, 04 May 2026 07:50:00 +0200

On May 3, 2026, GameStop proposed to acquire eBay in a $56 billion cash-and-stock deal, offering $125 per share in a 50-50 mix of cash and GameStop stock. CEO Ryan Cohen stated that he is prepared to pursue the offer directly with eBay shareholders if the board rejects it. The proposal is notable because eBay's market capitalization is nearly four times larger than GameStop's, making it an ambitious move for the video game retailer. GameStop has already built a 5% stake in eBay and plans to leverage its 1,600 U.S. locations to enhance eBay's authentication, fulfillment, and live commerce operations. Cohen projects $2 billion in annual cost savings within a year, aiming to boost eBay's earnings per share. He intends to serve as CEO of the combined company if the acquisition succeeds. While GameStop is working to expand its market value following a history of volatility and the meme-stock phenomenon of 2021, eBay continues to show growth, driven by collectibles, motor accessories, and li