US e-commerce group Ebay Inc. reported strong financial results for the first quarter of fiscal 2026 on Wednesday. The gross merchandise volume (GMV) reached $22.2 billion. This means it rose by 18 percent compared to the same period last year (+14 percent adjusted for currency effects). Sales climbed to 3.09 billion US dollars (2.64 billion euros) – an increase of 19 percent compared to the previous year.
eBay had already announced in February that it wanted to take over the online fashion platform Depop from Etsy. The deal is valued at approximately $1.20 billion in cash and is expected to close by the end of the third quarter. According to the group, this strategic step aims to deepen eBay’s reach among younger consumers and expand its presence in the second-hand fashion sector.
Focus on fashion and second hand
eBay CEO Jamie Iannone said the first quarter results marked a strong start to the year. Iannone emphasized that focus categories as well as the strategic priorities of C2C and recommerce have driven broad-based momentum. The company also focused on interactive experiences, including the expansion of eBay Live into France, Italy and Canada.
In the fashion segment, Ebay cooperated with Vogue magazine for the “Vogue Vintage Market” pop-up events in New York, London and Berlin. These events featured curated premium vintage pieces and auctions via eBay Live. The company also launched “The NYC Edit”. This is an online style guide and personal resale experience where buyers could shop directly from influencers’ closets.
Net profit increases by two percent
Net income from continuing operations reached $512 million (437 million euros) in the first quarter, up 2 percent from the same period last year. Adjusted for special effects, it increased by 16 percent to $760 million. Advertising revenue continues to be a significant driver for the group, generating a total of $581 million in the first quarter. First-party advertising products delivered $555 million, up 33 percent on a reported basis.
eBay CFO Peggy Alford highlighted that the results reflect the strong operating leverage inherent in the business. Alford confirmed that the company remains committed to disciplined execution of strategic priorities while leveraging capital to drive long-term value. During the quarter, the company returned $639 million to shareholders through share buybacks and cash dividends.
Outlook for the second quarter
For the second quarter of 2026, Ebay expects sales between $2.97 billion and $3.03 billion. This corresponds to currency-adjusted growth of eight to ten percent year-on-year. The company forecasts GMV between $21.30 billion and $21.70 billion for the same period.
The group also published its first climate transition plan. This outlines a roadmap to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2045. Additionally, Ebay for Charity enabled participants to raise nearly $60 million worldwide in the first quarter.
The company also continues to invest in social commerce. It recently announced a partnership with Meta for the Facebook Affiliate Program, allowing creators to feature products directly in their content.
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