Should You Buy eBay Stock Before Feb. 18?

Core Insights - eBay is transitioning from a traditional marketplace to a high-margin advertising platform, indicating a shift in its business model and market perception [1][7] - The upcoming quarterly results are expected to show earnings per share of approximately $1.35 and revenue around $2.87 billion, reflecting continued growth despite economic challenges [2][3] Financial Performance - In the most recent quarter, eBay's revenue increased by about 9% year over year, while gross merchandise volume (GMV) rose by 8%, demonstrating resilience in its marketplace operations [3] - Advertising revenue reached $525 million in the third quarter, accounting for 2.6% of GMV, highlighting the rapid growth of eBay's advertising business [5] Business Model Evolution - eBay's advertising segment is growing faster than its core business, which enhances the quality of its earnings as it does not rely on inventory or shipping [5][7] - The company is evolving into a monetization platform that leverages AI-driven tools and promoted listings to maximize transaction value [7] Investment Considerations - The stock is viewed as a long-term investment opportunity rather than a short-term trade, with consistent share buybacks and dividends contributing to its appeal as a cash-generating platform [8] - Potential investors are advised to consider buying eBay only if they are prepared to hold for years, focusing on the long-term impact of its advertising and platform shift [10]