Quick Answer: eBay Inc. is an American multinational e-commerce company based in San Jose, California, that allows users to buy or view items via retail sales through online marketplaces and websites in 190 markets worldwide. Sales occur either via online auctions or "buy it now" instant sales, and the company charges commissions to sellers upon sales. eBay was founded by Pierre Omidyar in September 1995. In 2021, eBay had approximately 17 million global sellers; in 2023, it reported 132 million yearly active buyers worldwide and handled $73 billion in transactions, 48% of which were in the United States. In 2023, the company had a take rate of 13.81%. eBay can be used by individuals, companies and governments to purchase and sell almost any legal, non-controversial item. Buyers and sellers may rate and review each other after each transaction, resulting in a reputation system. The eBay service is accessible via websites and mobile apps.