GameStop CEO Ryan Cohen Continues Push to Buy eBay, Bumps Ownership to 10%
GameStop has significantly increased its ownership stake in online auction platform eBay as CEO Ryan Cohen pursues an acquisition strategy. According to an SEC filing, GameStop now owns approximately 9.8% of eBay, consisting of 43.4 million shares—nearly doubling the 5% stake the gaming and collectibles retailer first disclosed in May when Cohen initially announced his acquisition ambitions.
Cohen has articulated an ambitious vision for transforming eBay into a more profitable and substantially larger platform. In a recent Bloomberg interview, he outlined plans to leverage GameStop’s existing expertise in gaming, refurbished technology, and collectibles to expand eBay’s capabilities. Central to his strategy is positioning the combined entity as a leader in live commerce—a growing trend where e-commerce transactions occur through live streaming or interactive content.
The move represents a significant bet by Cohen on the potential of eBay’s existing marketplace infrastructure combined with GameStop’s specialized knowledge. With nearly one-tenth ownership, GameStop has established itself as a major stakeholder, positioning Cohen to potentially influence the company’s strategic direction or pursue a full acquisition.