Analyst Cheers eBay's AI Fashion Bet As GMV Beats: Details Here

Core Viewpoint - eBay Inc. reported strong first-quarter results, with earnings and revenue exceeding analyst expectations, indicating positive momentum in its business operations [1][2]. Financial Performance - Quarterly earnings were $1.38 per share, surpassing the consensus estimate of$ 1.34 [1]. - Quarterly revenue reached $2.58 billion, beating the analyst consensus of$ 2.55 billion and showing a slight increase from $2.56 billion in the same period last year [1]. Analyst Insights - Analysts noted that eBay's growth was driven by a focus on differentiated, non-new, in-season products, with key categories growing by 6% in the quarter [2]. - Needham's analyst highlighted that GMV exceeded expectations, growing 2% in constant currency, with improved momentum in March and April [1][2]. - BofA Securities raised GMV and revenue estimates for 2025 by 2% and 1%, respectively, due to favorable foreign exchange conditions [5]. Strategic Initiatives - eBay is investing in AI and machine learning to enhance efficiency, particularly in fashion, collectibles, and parts and accessories [2]. - The company launched a new AI-powered shopping experience in the U.S. and U.K., focusing on its core fashion business and introducing pre-loved apparel as a new category [3]. Geographic Performance - The U.K. C2C initiatives, such as Managed Shipping and eBay Balance, have shown strong growth, exceeding internal expectations [4]. - The introduction of a buyer protection fee in February helped narrow the monetization gap [4]. Stock Ratings and Price Forecasts - Needham analyst reiterated a Buy rating, raising the price forecast from$ 72 to $78 [7]. - JP Morgan maintained a Neutral rating, increasing the price forecast from$ 54 to $60 [7]. - BofA Securities also reiterated a Neutral rating with a price forecast of$ 71 [7].