To Our Stockholders, Partners, Employees and the eBay Community:
A Year of Accomplishments
The year 2000 was a time of great accomplishments at eBay. In just 12 months, we dramatically
expanded our marketplace in several important ways. For starters, we added thousands of new product
categories as well as dozens of new services and site features. Our marketing and promotions eÅorts produced
growing ubiquity for eBay, both on and oÅ the Internet, making more people in more places aware of eBay and
bringing them to the site in greater numbers than ever before. We introduced Ñxed-price trading to our
community, reaching a whole new type of user for the Ñrst time. And we continued to extend the eBay
marketplace to the most productive e-commerce markets on the planet.
Perhaps what makes our accomplishments in 2000 even more impressive is that they were achieved
during a period of great turmoil in our industry and in a manner that signiÑcantly improved our already solid
Ñnancial base.
Come what may, eBay and its community prospered in 2000, and we are extremely pleased by the
momentum we have going into 2001.
A Thriving Marketplace
At eBay we do one thing. We work every day to be the world's largest and most compelling Internet
commerce platform. To further that goal in 2000, our seasoned management team stayed focused on attracting
more customers, expanding the goods traded on the site, making the user experience easier, safer, more fun
and exciting, and spreading the eBay marketplace to more places around the world.
eBay ended the year with over 22 million registered users, representing 125 percent growth over the
10 million users we had at the end of 1999. To put that in perspective, eBay's community is now larger than
the population of Texas, the second largest state in the Union. And our community is more diverse than ever,
featuring homemakers, major corporations and everyone in between, buying and selling practically anything.
Our users listed more than 265 million items on the site in 2000, up 104 percent from 1999.
Our deepening integration into AOL's site throughout the year, as well as our enhanced aÇliates
program, which in Q4 reached 13,000 partners, helped drive user growth by putting eBay in front of more
people than ever before. Marketing promotions with such powerful and diverse brands as AOL Time Warner,
Disney, Visa, The History Channel and General Motors, to name just a few, were also critical in reaching new
users and in user retention.
In 2000, eBay stepped up its oÉine marketing eÅorts by running its Ñrst national advertising campaign.
And on the public relations front, eBay continued to be at the center of popular culture, receiving attention in
hit TV shows, movies, and in thousands of local, regional and national news stories.
One of the reasons so many people come to eBay is the variety of goods and services they can Ñnd in our
marketplace. During 2000, eBay added more than 5,000 new categories, including new meta-categories such
as personal care, clothing and accessories and home and garden. In the fourth quarter alone, eBay users in the
clothing and accessories category transacted over $40 million in gross merchandise sales. And people are just
beginning to realize that in 2000, eBay became the largest online destination for computers and electronics,
used cars, toys, sporting goods, and jewelry and gemstones.
The acquisition of Half.com in July was an important milestone in our history. With the acquisition, eBay
formally introduced Ñxed-price trading to its community. In just a few short months, Half.com achieved
tremendous results. By December, Half had more than 10 million items listed on the site and was the #3
online retailer in terms of traÇc, according to Media Metrix. Half's success, combined with the early success
of our new ""Buy-It-Now'' feature, makes it clear that Ñxed-price trading will play a growing role in eBay's
future.
Another important milestone for eBay in 2000 was the introduction of eBay's API (application
programming interface). The API will allow eBay to be fully integrated into other sites across the Internet. In
addition, the API will make it possible for our commercial partners to more easily and quickly expand our
services to new devices, such as wireless telephones and handhelds. Finally, the API will improve the user
experience by allowing developers to create new and more robust services for eBay users.
In March of 2001, eBay and Microsoft agreed to an alliance that is intended to supercharge eBay's API,
extending it to Microsoft's legions of developers worldwide. Microsoft will also integrate eBay's marketplace
into a number of its web properties, including select MSN sites worldwide, CarPoint, bCentral and WebTV.
Throughout 2000, eBay introduced dozens of features to make the site easier and more fun to use. We
added new ways for our users to list, search, trade and pay for items. Our eÅorts were rewarded with increased
trading velocity. We also saw the number of transactions that closed using Billpoint, eBay's payment service,
signiÑcantly increase during the second half of the year, indicating that more buyers are relying on the safety
and convenience of the Billpoint payment service than ever before.
Customer support was again a priority for eBay in 2000. We're happy to report that our latest surveys
show that once again more than 90 percent of our users would recommend eBay to a friend. And eBay recently
received the ""Best Customer Satisfaction'' award from Satmetrix.
All of our accomplishments in 2000 were achieved on a strong and robust technology platform that
consistently delivered at least 99 percent up time. While we are very pleased with our technology progress this
past year, we know that our job is never done. We will continue to make signiÑcant investments to expand and
strengthen our technology infrastructure and will begin rolling out the third generation of our platform in 2001.
International Expansion
To create a truly global trading platform, eBay is establishing a strong presence in countries whose
populations generate the majority of the world's e-commerce revenue. In 2000, we entered four new markets
Ì Japan, Canada, France and Austria. In the Ñrst eight weeks of 2001, we announced the launch of our
Italian site and our entry into South Korea through the acquisition of a controlling interest in Internet
Auction, South Korea's largest auction-style web site. eBay also announced the acquisition of iBazar, the
pioneer in online auction-style trading in Europe. With the close of the iBazar acquisition, currently scheduled
for the second quarter of 2001, as well as the recent launches of sites in Ireland, Switzerland and New
Zealand, eBay will have a strong leadership position in 15 of the top 20 global markets which represent
approximately 90 percent of the world's e-commerce dollars and a vast majority of the world's Internet users.
Financial Stability
In 2000, eBay again had record bottom line proÑts, which were driven by record user growth, revenues
and gross merchandise sales. For the year, eBay reported consolidated net revenues of $431.4 million, a
92 percent increase over 1999. Consolidated pro forma net income for the full year, which excludes certain
non-cash, merger and stock related charges, reached $58.6 million, or 21 cents per diluted share. This
represents a more than three-fold increase in pro forma net income compared to 1999. Online net revenues
totaled $392 million for the year, a 115% increase over 1999. With strong growth in the core U.S. business,
rapidly growing international operations, and continuing success in adding value for both buyers and sellers, we
continue to be pleased with the diversity of our revenue streams. eBay's balance sheet ended the year at
$1.2 billion in total assets, including approximately $901 million in cash and Ñnancial instruments.
Our Future
As we push into 2001, eBay will stay focused on attracting a broad range of buyers and sellers to the site.
We will introduce more categories and services to eBay as we identify relevant opportunities in the estimated
$1.7 trillion market we address today. We will continue to enhance our technology infrastructure, making it
possible for an ever-growing number of users to reliably transact increasing amounts of business. And we will
continue to expand across the U.S. and the world, increasing our presence in both local and international
markets that will ultimately enable seamless worldwide trading.
eBay's goal is to be the Internet's marketplace. We strive to provide the best and most eÇcient way for
our community of users to buy and sell almost anything, anytime, anywhere. We hope that our success in 2000
demonstrates that we're on our way!
In 2001, eBay will continue to develop all parts of its culture. That culture includes a belief that we must
contribute to the communities around us and help those who are less fortunate. The eBay Foundation will
continue its eÅorts to assist non-proÑt organizations as they struggle to serve people in need of important
services. And we will move forward with our eÅorts to help the nation's senior citizens overcome the ""digital
divide'' by helping to provide easy access to technology and education. eBay has pledged to bring more than
one million seniors online, working with its partner, SeniorNet, the largest non-proÑt trainer of seniors in the
country. We have also promised to help SeniorNet establish ten education centers nationwide.
As always, we want to extend our profound thanks to eBay's stockholders, partners, employees and the
eBay community. In particular, we want to acknowledge the many contributions of our wonderful global
community. From the beginning, eBay has been blessed to be the home of some of the most creative,
hardworking and dedicated users on the Internet. Our community makes every eBay triumph possible and our
site one of the most interesting and fun places around. Every eBay employee spends his or her day thinking
about how eBay can be a better place for our community to trade. When our community succeeds, we
succeed.
We look forward to much shared success in the months and years ahead.
Pierre Omidyar
Founder & Chairman of the Board
Meg Whitman
President & Chief Executive OÇcer
UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
FORM 10-K
≤ ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE
SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the Ñscal year ended December 31, 2000.
OR
n TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE
SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the Transition Period from
to
.
Commission Ñle number 000-24821
eBay Inc.
(Exact name of Registrant as speciÑed in its charter)
Delaware
(State or other jurisdiction of
incorporation or organization)
2145 Hamilton Avenue
San Jose, California
(Address of principal executive oÇces)
77-0430924
(I.R.S. Employer
IdentiÑcation Number)
95125
(Zip Code)
(408) 558-7400
(Registrant's telephone number, including area code)
Check whether the registrant: (1) Ñled all reports required to be Ñled by Section 13 or 15(d) of the
Exchange Act during the past 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to Ñle
such reports), and (2) has been subject to such Ñling requirements for the past 90 days. Yes ≤ No n
Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent Ñlers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K is not
contained herein, and will not be contained, to the best of the registrant's knowledge, in deÑnitive proxy or
information statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to this
Form 10-K. n
As of March 1, 2001 there were 269,310,946 shares of the Registrant's common stock, $0.001 par value,
outstanding, which is the only class of common or voting stock of the registrant issued as of that date. The
aggregate market value of the voting stock held by non-aÇliates computed by reference to the closing price for
the common stock as quoted by the Nasdaq Stock Market as of March 1, 2001 was approximately
$5,395,955,138.
DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE
Items 10 through 13 are incorporated by reference to eBay's Proxy Statement for the 2001 Annual
Meeting of stockholders to be Ñled by April 30, 2001.
Item 1: Business
PART I
This Annual Report on Form 10-K contains forward-looking statements based on our current expecta-
tions about our company and our industry. You can identify these forward-looking statements when you see us
using words such as ""expect,'' ""anticipate,'' ""estimate'' and other similar expressions. These forward-looking
statements involve risks and uncertainties. Our actual results could diÅer materially from those anticipated in
these forward-looking statements as a result of the factors described in the ""Risk Factors'' section of
Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations and elsewhere in
this report. We undertake no obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statements for any reason,
even if new information becomes available or other events occur in the future.
Corporate Background
eBay Inc. was formed as a sole proprietorship in September 1995, and was incorporated in California in
May 1996. In March 1998, we reincorporated in Delaware and completed our initial public oÅering in
September 1998. Our principal executive oÇces are located at 2145 Hamilton Ave., San Jose, California,
95125, and our telephone number is (408) 558-7400. When we refer to ""we'' or ""eBay'' in this Annual Report
on Form 10-K, we mean the current Delaware corporation (eBay Inc.) and its California predecessor, as well
as all of our consolidated subsidiaries. When we refer to ""eBay.com'', we mean the U.S.-based dynamic
pricing online trading platform located at www.ebay.com.
The Company
eBay owns and operates eBay.com, which, based upon the aggregate value of goods traded, is the world's
largest and most popular online marketplace. Our mission is to develop a global online trading platform that
will help practically anyone buy or sell practically anything.
eBay pioneered online personal trading by developing a Web-based community in which buyers and
sellers are brought together in an eÇcient and entertaining format to buy and sell items such as collectibles,
automobiles, high-end or premium art items, jewelry, consumer electronics and a host of practical and
miscellaneous items. The eBay dynamic pricing (i.e. auction-style) format permits sellers to list items for sale,
buyers to bid on items of interest and all eBay users to browse through listed items. eBay's service is fully
automated, topically arranged, intuitive and easy to use.
As of March 1, 2001, through our wholly-owned and partially-owned subsidiaries and aÇliates, we
operated dynamic pricing online trading platforms in the United States, Germany, the United Kingdom,
Australia, Japan, Canada, France, Austria, Italy and South Korea. In February 2001, we announced an
agreement to acquire 100% of the outstanding stock of iBazar S.A., a leading provider of online trading
services in Europe and Brazil. With the completion of this acquisition, currently scheduled for the second
quarter of 2001, we expect to broaden our international reach in online trading to include Spain, the
Netherlands, Belgium, Portugal, Sweden and Brazil. eBay also owns and operates Half.com, which provides
an alternative, Ñxed-price format for trading books, recorded music, movies (VHS, DVD) and video games.
Through our 65 percent owned subsidiary Billpoint Inc., we also facilitate online trading transactions by
providing sellers and buyers with the necessary tools to conduct person-to-person credit card and electronic
check payments safely over the Web.
From December 31, 1998 to December 31, 2000, the number of registered eBay users grew from
approximately 2 million to approximately 22 million. eBay users listed over 79 million items for sale in more
than 8,000 categories during the fourth quarter of 2000, up from 41 million items in the fourth quarter of 1999.
This includes items listed on eBay.com, eBay's international sites and items sold on Half.com. The aggregate
value of goods sold, or gross merchandise sales, on the various eBay and Half.com sites in the fourth quarter of
2000, was approximately $1.6 billion, up from $901 million in the fourth quarter of 1999. In 2000, eBay users
listed more than 264.7 million items and completed transactions with an aggregate value of more than
$5.4 billion.
1
eBay also owns and operates ButterÑelds Auctioneers (""ButterÑelds'') and Kruse International
(""Kruse''), which provide traditional oÉine auction services for Ñne art, antiques and collectibles and
collector cars, respectively.
ButterÑelds, established in 1865, is the largest auction house in the Western United States, with full-
service galleries in San Francisco and Los Angeles and a regional oÇce in Seattle.
Kruse is one of the world's leading collector car auction companies and sold thousands of cars per year in
more than 20 events. In addition to collector cars, the company has auctioned distinctive real estate, vintage
aircraft, islands, zoos, railroads and three entire towns.
Industry Background
Growth of the Internet and Online Commerce
The Internet has emerged as a global medium enabling millions of people worldwide to share
information, communicate and conduct electronic commerce transactions. According to Nua Internet
Surveys, as of November 2000, more than 400 million people worldwide had access to the Internet either at
home or work. And, according to Forrester Research, the total value of global e-commerce transactions in
2001 is expected to be more than $1.2 trillion, up from approximately $657 billion in 2000.
The Internet oÅers the Ñrst opportunity to create a compelling global business that overcomes the
ineÇciencies associated with traditional trading among buyers and sellers of all types. An Internet-based,
centralized trading place oÅers the following beneÑts:
‚ facilitates buyers and sellers meeting, listing items for sale, exchanging information, interacting with
each other and, ultimately, consummating transactions;
‚ allows buyers and sellers to trade directly, bypassing traditional intermediaries and lowering costs for
both parties;
‚ is global in reach, oÅering buyers a signiÑcantly broader selection of goods to purchase and providing
sellers the opportunity to sell their goods eÇciently to a broader base of buyers;
‚ oÅers signiÑcant convenience, allowing trading at all hours and providing continuously updated
information;
‚ fosters a sense of community through direct buyer and seller communication, thereby enabling
interaction between individuals with mutual interests; and
‚ establishes fair market prices for items where no eÇcient market is in place (e.g. rare items, distressed
and surplus goods).
The Opportunity of Online Trading
eBay's online trading platform has historically oÅered the exchange of goods among buyers and sellers of
all types, competing with classiÑed advertisements, collectibles shows, garage sales, Öea markets and other
venues such as auction houses. As eBay's service has evolved, its applicability has expanded to broader
categories of items, and to a broader and more global user base. As a result, eBay's product mix has shifted
from primarily collectible items to practical everyday items, such as household goods, computers, consumer
electronics and other items. With the shift to a broader product oÅering, its competition has also broadened,
and now includes distributors, liquidators, retailers, import and export companies, catalog and mail order
companies, and virtually all online and oÉine commerce participants (consumer-to-consumer, business-to-
consumer, and business-to-business).
Many of these traditional trading forums are ineÇcient because:
‚ they often have a fragmented, regional nature making it diÇcult and expensive for buyers and sellers to
meet, exchange information and complete transactions;
2
‚ they may oÅer a limited variety or breadth of goods;
‚ they often have high transaction costs; and
‚ they are often information ineÇcient, as buyers and sellers lack a reliable and convenient means of
setting prices for sales or purchases.
The eBay Online Trading Platform
The core eBay online trading platform permits sellers to list items for sale, buyers to bid for and purchase
items of interest and all eBay users to browse through listed items from any place in the world at any time. The
eBay website oÅers buyers a large selection of new and used items that can be diÇcult and costly to Ñnd
through traditional distribution channels and oÅers sellers one of the most eÇcient and vibrant online
distribution channels available. The Half.com Ñxed price platform permits sellers to list books, recorded
music, movies (VHS and DVD) and video games for sale, buyers to purchase items at a price pre-established
by the seller, and all Half.com users to browse through listed items from any place at any time.
The eBay service was originally introduced in September 1995 to create an eÇcient forum for individuals
to trade with one another. Since its beginning as a grassroots online trading community, eBay has primarily
attracted buyers and sellers through word of mouth and by providing buyers and sellers a place to socialize,
discuss topics of common interest and ultimately to trade goods with one another. The number of categories
under which eBay users list goods for sale has grown from 10, when eBay was Ñrst introduced, to more than
8,000 as of December 31, 2000. The main categories on eBay.com currently include, antiques and art, books,
movies, music, coins and stamps, collectibles, computers, dolls, dollhouses, jewelry, photo and electronics,
pottery and glass, real estate, sports, toys and miscellaneous items (""everything else''). Specialty marketplaces
have also been added to serve the specialized needs of buyers and sellers, for example eBay Motors was
developed to serve the automotive marketplace, including vehicles, parts and accessories; eBay Premier was
developed to leverage the premium art and collectibles marketplace in conjunction with ButterÑelds and
Half.com is focused on providing a Ñxed-price trading environment, initially for books, music, videos and video
games.
The principal reasons for eBay's success to date are as follows:
Largest Online Trading Forum. Unlike other commerce trading forums, eBay has aggregated a critical
mass of buyers, sellers and items listed for sale, which in turn has resulted in an extremely vibrant and robust
trading environment. eBay sellers enjoy generally high sell-through or conversion rates and buyers enjoy an
extensive selection of broadly priced goods and services. At December 31, 2000, eBay had over 22 million
registered users, oÅered more than 8,000 product categories and listed more than 6 million items for sale in an
auction-style format and more than 8 million items for sale in Ñxed-price format on Half.com.
Compelling Trading Environment. eBay has created a distinctive trading environment by utilizing
entertaining pricing formats, establishing procedural rules and promoting community values that are designed
to facilitate trade and communications between buyers and sellers. The trading environment's eÇciency is
illustrated by the limited need for eBay to intervene or play a signiÑcant role in the trading process. The
auction pricing format found on eBay creates a sense of urgency among buyers to bid for goods because of the
uncertain future availability of unique items on the website. Similarly, by accepting multiple bids at increasing
prices, the auction pricing format provides sellers a more eÇcient means of obtaining a fair market price for
their products. While the dynamic and exciting auction format appeals to certain users and is particularly
appropriate for unique and other hard-to-value items, many mass-market product categories are more
eÅectively merchandised in a Ñxed price format, and certain users prefer the immediacy and convenience of a
Ñxed price purchase. Our acquisition of Half.com in July 2000, and the implementation of our ""Buy it Now''
Ñxed price feature on eBay.com, have expanded our marketplace by attracting a new consumer demographic
and accelerated the velocity of trading by reducing the length of time between listing an item and completing
the transaction.
Trust and Safety Programs. eBay has developed a number of programs designed to make users more
comfortable dealing with an unknown trading partner over the Web. eBay's Feedback Forum encourages every
3
user to provide comments and feedback on other eBay users with whom they interact and oÅers user proÑles
that provide feedback ratings and incorporate user experiences. In addition, eBay's expanded SafeHarborTM
program provides guidelines for trading, helps provide information to resolve user disputes, responds to reports
of misuse of the eBay service and, if necessary, warns or suspends users who violate the terms of its user
agreement. eBay's ongoing trust and safety initiatives, including user veriÑcation, credit card requirements for
sellers, insurance, integrated escrow, authentication and methods to help keep previously suspended users
from re-registering on eBay, are all intended to bolster eBay's reputation as a safe place to trade. eBay has also
developed an extensive set of rules and guidelines designed to educate users and help implement its policy of
prohibiting the sale of illegal or pirated items.
Cost-EÅective, Convenient Trading. eBay allows its buyers and sellers to bypass traditionally expensive,
regionally fragmented intermediaries and transact business on a 24 hour, seven days a week basis. Because
sellers bypass costly intermediaries, they frequently have lower selling costs and an increased likelihood of
Ñnding buyers willing to pay the target price. Listing an item on eBay requires sellers to generally pay a
nominal placement fee ranging from $0.30 to $3.30 and an additional success fee from 1.25% to 5% of the
transaction value if the sale is successfully concluded. Certain categories, namely autos and real estate, have a
diÅerent fee policy that consists of a $25 and $50 listing fee, respectively, and a $25 success fee for autos and
no success fee for real estate. Listing an item on Half.com is free; successful sellers are charged a commission
equal to 15% of the Ñnal sale price at the time a buyer pays the seller as well as a shipping fee. As a result of
these pricing policies, sellers can cost-eÅectively sell relatively inexpensive items that had previously been
prohibitively expensive to list through most traditional trading forums. By allowing sellers to conveniently and
easily reach a broad range of buyers, eBay also addresses the time-consuming, logistical inconvenience of
individual selling. Buyers have access to a broad selection of items and avoid the need to pay expensive
markups or commissions to intermediaries. The critical mass of items listed on eBay provides a mutual beneÑt
for buyers and sellers allowing both to eÅectively determine an appropriate price for an item.
Strong Community AÇnity. eBay believes that fostering direct interaction between buyers and sellers
with similar interests has enabled it to create a loyal, active community of users. eBay has introduced a variety
of features and services designed to strengthen this sense of community among eBay users. eBay facilitates
communications between buyers and sellers by oÅering chat rooms, bulletin boards, threaded discussion
boards, customer support assistance from its personnel or other eBay users and by providing ""About Me'' user
pages. These community features encourage consumer loyalty and repeat usage.
Intuitive User Experience. The eBay trading platform is a fully automated, topically arranged, intuitive
and easy-to-use online service that is available on a 24 hour, seven day a week basis. On the dynamic trading
platform, a seller can list items for sale within minutes of completing a simple online form and buyers can
submit bids for items quickly and easily. Buyers can easily search the millions of items listed by category or
speciÑc item. During the course of the transaction, bidders are notiÑed by email of the status of their bids on a
daily basis and are notiÑed immediately if they are outbid. Sellers and successful bidders are automatically
notiÑed when a transaction is completed. To assist users further, eBay oÅers email customer support staÅed on
a seven day a week basis. On the Half.com Ñxed price platform, sellers can easily list items by simply entering
the ISBN or UPC bar code number of their item, along with the item's condition and selling price. Half.com
automatically adds descriptions and pictures to each listing, so sellers do not need to do it themselves. Buying
at Half.com is similar to the shopping experience at other leading online retailers. Buyers can browse by
category or search by title or artist/author. When they want to buy, they simply put items in their cart, enter
their credit card number and check out. Customers can also see real-time price comparisons of new versions of
the same item through an on-screen shopping agent.
eBay Strategy
eBay's objective is to build upon its position as the world's leading community-commerce model and the
most compelling commerce platform on the Internet. Our vision is to help practically anyone buy or sell
practically anything in the world. The key elements of eBay's strategy are to:
4
Broaden the eBay Trading Platform. eBay has pursued a multi-pronged strategy for growing the eBay
platform in several dimensions: within existing product categories, across new product categories, through
geographic expansion, both local and international, and through introduction of additional pricing formats
such as Ñxed price sales. eBay targeted key product categories in its user programs and marketing activities.
eBay has expanded and developed existing product categories by introducing category-speciÑc bulletin boards
and chat rooms, integrating category-speciÑc content, advertising its service in targeted publications and
participating in targeted trade shows. In addition, eBay broadened the range of users and added product
categories, content, features and other services to meet this new user demand. The increasing number and
importance of practical (as opposed to collectible) items on the site is illustrative of this broadened range.
eBay has also broadened the range of products that it oÅers to facilitate trading on the site, including payment
services, shipping services, authentication, appraisal, vehicle inspection and escrow services. In addition, eBay
has successful introduced two Ñxed-price formats through Half.com and the ""Buy It Now'' feature.
During 2000, a number of improvements intended to broaden the eBay trading platform were introduced,
including:
‚ the acquisition of Half.com, a Ñxed-price, person-to-person trading website where buyers and sellers
can trade used books, CDs, movies and video games at Ñxed prices that are less than the list price;
‚ the launch of eBay Motors in association with AutoTrader.com, which created the Internet's largest
auction-style website for consumers and dealers to buy and sell used cars;
‚ the launch of additional eBay Regional sites. In 2000, eBay launched eight regional sites to encourage
the sale of items that are too bulky or expensive to ship, items of local interest and items that people
prefer to view before purchasing;
‚ the launch of over 5,000 new categories that make it easier to Ñnd items in diverse categories;
‚ the launch of the eBay ""Application Program Interface (API) and Developers Program'', which allows
other companies to use eBay content to drive their own businesses. The API provides three basic
beneÑts. First, it allows eBay to be fully integrated into independent sites across the Internet. A new
site will be able to use the eBay commerce engine to power its business, eliminating time and expense
from the start-up process. As a second beneÑt, the API will allow eBay and its commercial partners to
more easily and rapidly add eBay's services to new devices, such as wireless telephones and handheld
computers. Finally, the new platform interface will improve the user experience by allowing more
companies to provide services to eBay users;
‚ the introduction of Live Auctions technology on eBay Premier. Providing real-time bidding via the
Internet, this new feature allows individuals to participate in the excitement of traditional live sales
from auction house Öoors anywhere in the world;
‚ the launch of Electronic Checks as a new payment option. Electronic Check is the latest innovation in
Internet-based payments, providing buyers and sellers with a means for faster transactions without
returned checks, with no paperwork and no charge back risk. For eBay buyers, Electronic Check
combines the convenience of paper checks with the safety, convenience and speed of electronic
payments. For eBay sellers, Electronic Check is a cost-eÅective alternative to paper checks and credit
cards where payment is guaranteed;
‚ the launch of eBay Anywhere, a comprehensive mobile strategy that aims to make eBay accessible
from any Internet-enabled mobile device. From WAP mobile phones to the latest PDAs, eBay
Anywhere brings together leading technology companies, mobile carriers, portals and hardware vendors
with the goal of making eBay accessible to any user's choice of handheld Internet device;
‚ the launch of a new category called eBay Real Estate, intended to make property transactions on eBay
easier for buyers and sellers, and to provide a dedicated home for eBay's emerging real estate
marketplace.
5
Foster eBay Community AÇnity. eBay continues to enhance what is already the largest and one of the
most loyal online trading communities on the Web. By instilling a vibrant eBay community experience, eBay
seeks to maintain a critical mass of frequent buyers and sellers with a vested interest in the eBay community.
eBay believes that new community tools, such as About Me personal pages and threaded message boards will
continue to contribute to the community vibrancy. eBay's trust and safety initiatives, including user
veriÑcation, requirements for new sellers to have a credit card on Ñle, insurance, integrated escrow,
authentication and appraisal are intended to bolster eBay's reputation as a safe place to trade. Consistent with
its desire to foster community, eBay has organized a charitable fund, known as the eBay Foundation, and
involves the members of the eBay community in determining to which charitable purposes the eBay
Foundation's funds will be applied. See ""The eBay Service Ì Community Services.''
Enhance Features and Functionality. eBay intends to continually update and enhance the features and
functionality of the eBay and Half.com websites to ensure continuous improvement to the trading experience.
During 2000, eBay added many new features and services to help buyers and sellers trade with greater ease,
including a single login feature, smart search, counters for sellers, Highlight and Feature Plus!, integrated
photo hosting, ""List in Two Categories,'' a feature that allows users to cross merchandise their items in two
categories simultaneously, a pre-approve bidder tool that gives sellers the ability to set up their own pre-
qualiÑcation guidelines for bidders, and ""Buy It Now,'' a feature that allows buyers to purchase items
immediately and skip the auction process.
Expand Value-Added Services. In order to oÅer an end-to-end personal trading service, eBay provides a
variety of ""pre-trade'' and ""post-trade'' services to enhance the user experience and make trading easier. ""Pre-
trade'' services make listing items for sale easier and include photo hosting, authentication and seller
productivity software. ""Post-trade'' services make transactions easier and more comfortable to consummate,
such as payment facilitation, insurance, vehicle inspections, escrow, shipping and postage. eBay currently
provides, or will provide, these services directly or through strategic partnerships with third parties.
Value-added services introduced during 2000 include:
‚ the launch of eBay Picture Services, powered by iPIX, which provides eBay users with an easy-to-use,
robust set of imaging services that allow sellers to simply drag and drop images into image wells on the
eBay Sell Your Item form. Users may also preview their images on the Sell Your Item form and have
their images automatically resized and formatted for optimal viewing;
‚ the addition of Saturn and its retailers to provide a nationwide automobile inspection service. The new
inspection service, developed and oÅered by Saturn, is now part of eBay Motors and AutoTrader.com's
co-branded automobile site; and
‚ the integration of Keen.com, the Ñrst Live Answer CommunityTM, into key areas of eBay's online
trading platform. The integration is intended to make it more convenient for eBay's 22 million users to
contact Keen.com's members and get live answers to questions on many topics, including trading and
collectibles.
Continue to Develop United States and International Markets. eBay believes that the Internet provides a
signiÑcant opportunity for the creation of eÇcient trading platforms in local, national and international
markets and that over time, these platforms can be transformed into a seamless, truly global trading
environment. eBay intends to take advantage of this opportunity by developing eBay for selected local,
national and international markets and actively marketing and promoting these services. On the local level,
eBay has already rolled out local trading for 60 geographic regions in the United States and has launched a
similar regional service oÅering in Germany, the United Kingdom, Canada and Australia. The creation of
regional trading sites makes it easier and more practical to buy and sell items of local interest and items too
large, expensive or complex to eÅectively trade on a wider geographical level. eBay will continue to consider
the addition of regional sites in U.S. and international markets that oÅer a critical mass of users and a
signiÑcant electronic commerce opportunity. Internationally, eBay has introduced country-speciÑc services for
Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, Germany, Japan, France, Austria, Italy and through the February
6
2001 acquisition of Internet Auction Company Ltd., South Korea. eBay believes that its user base already
includes users located in over 200 countries.
eBay can choose from several strategies to enter new international markets, including building a user
community solely through internal eÅorts, acquiring a company already in the local trading market or
partnering with strong local companies. eBay has employed each of these strategies where appropriate, as
follows:
‚ our presence in the United Kingdom, Canada, France, and Italy was built with local management
teams and a combination of grass roots and online marketing programs;
‚ our presence in Germany was built primarily through the June 1999 acquisition of alando.de.ag, an
existing German trading service;
‚ we entered into a joint venture with a subsidiary of one of the largest media companies in Australia to
penetrate this market;
‚ in February 2000, we announced a relationship with NEC to jointly address the market in Japan. As
part of that agreement, NEC agreed to purchase a 30% equity interest in eBay Japan;
‚ in February 2001, we acquired a majority ownership interest in Internet Auction Co. Ltd., South
Korea's largest online trading service; and
‚ in February 2001, we announced an agreement to acquire 100% of iBazar S.A., Europe's largest online
trading platform. iBazar has a leading presence in 7 of its 8 markets, which include France, Italy,
Spain, Portugal, the Netherlands, Belgium, Brazil and Sweden.
The eBay Dynamic Pricing Format
The eBay dynamic pricing trading platform is a robust, Internet-based, centralized trading environment
that facilitates buying and selling of a wide variety of items.
Registration. While any visitor to eBay can browse through the eBay service and view the items listed for
sale, in order to bid for an item or to list an item for sale, buyers and sellers must Ñrst register with eBay. Users
register by completing a short online form and thereafter can immediately bid for an item or list an item for
sale. Users in Canada, Germany, Japan, Australia, the United Kingdom, France, Italy, Austria may instead
register through country-speciÑc home pages.
Buying on eBay. Buyers typically enter eBay through its home page, which contains a listing of product
categories that allows for easy exploration of current items for sale. Bidders can search for speciÑc items by
browsing through a list of items within a category or subcategory and then ""clicking through'' to a detailed
description for a particular item. Bidders also can search speciÑc categories, interest pages or the entire
database of item listings using keywords to describe the types of products in which they are interested. eBay's
search engine will then generate a list of relevant items with links to the detailed descriptions. Each item is
assigned a unique identiÑer so that users can easily search for and track speciÑc items. Users also can search
for a particular bidder or seller by name in order to review his or her item for sale and feedback history as well
as search for products by speciÑc region or search in the ""Gallery'' mode. Once a bidder has found an item of
interest and registered with eBay, the bidder enters the maximum amount he or she is willing to pay at that
time. In the event of competitive bids, the eBay service automatically increases bidding in increments based
upon the then current highest bid for the item, up to the bidder's maximum price. As eBay encourages direct
interaction between buyers and sellers, bidders wishing additional information about a listed item can contact
the seller through email functionality. eBay believes that this interaction between bidders and sellers enhances
the personal, one-on-one nature of trading on the Web and is an important element of the eBay experience.
Once each bid is made, eBay sends a conÑrmation to the bidder via email, an outbid notice to the next highest
bidder and automatically updates the item's auction status. During the course of the sale, eBay notiÑes bidders
immediately via email if they are outbid. Bidders are not charged for making bids or purchases through eBay.
In addition, buyers can also specify items of interest on a service called ""Favorite Searches'' (previously called
""Personal Shopper'') and receive automated email messages when these particular items are available for sale
7
on eBay. In November 2000, eBay implemented the ""Buy it Now'' feature. Sellers can choose to use the Buy
It Now feature at the time of listing, which allows sellers to name a price at which they would be willing to sell
the item to any buyer. Listings are run in the normal auction format, but will also feature a Buy It Now icon
and price. Until the Ñrst bid is placed, or in the case of a reserve auction, until the reserve price is met, buyers
have the option to buy the item instantly at the speciÑed price without waiting for the listing to end.
Selling on eBay. Sellers registered with eBay can list a product for sale by completing a short online
form or using ""Mr. Lister,'' ""Auction Assistant'' or third party tools that facilitate the listing of multiple items.
The seller selects a minimum price for opening bids for the item and chooses whether the sale will last three,
Ñve, seven or ten days. Additionally, a seller may select a reserve price for an item, which is the minimum
price at which the seller is willing to sell the item and is typically higher than the minimum price set for the
opening bid. The reserve price is not disclosed to bidders. A seller can elect to sell items in individual item
listings or, if he or she has multiple identical items, can elect to hold a ""Dutch Auction.'' For example, an
individual wishing to sell 10 identical watches could hold 10 individual auctions or hold a Dutch Auction in
which the 10 highest bidders would each receive a watch at the same price and all lower bids would be
rejected. To be eligible to hold a Dutch auction, a seller must have a suÇciently high feedback rating and
must have been a registered seller for at least 60 days. A seller may also specify that an auction will be a
private auction. With this format, bidders' e-mail addresses are not disclosed on the item screen or bidding
history screen.
Throughout 2000, sellers generally paid a nominal placement fee to list items for sale Ì $0.25 for an item
listing with a minimum starting price of less than $10.00; $0.50 for a minimum starting price of $10.00 to
$24.99; $1.00 for a minimum starting price of $25.00 to $49.99; and $2.00 for a minimum starting price of
$50.00 or more. As of January 31, 2001, listing fees were increased as follows Ì $0.30 for an item listing with
a minimum starting price of less than $10.00; $0.55 for a minimum starting price of $10.00 to $24.99; $1.10 for
a minimum starting price of $25.00 to $49.99; $2.20 for a minimum starting price of $50.00 to $199.99; and
$3.30 for a minimum starting price of $200 or more. By paying an additional $0.50 for items with a starting
price of $0.01 to $24.99 or $1.00 for items with a starting price of $25 or more, sellers can choose to have a
reserve selling price, which establishes a minimum level at which they are obligated to sell the item. By paying
incremental placement fees, sellers can have items featured in various ways. A seller can highlight his or her
item for sale by utilizing a bold font for the item heading for an additional fee of $2.00. A seller with a
favorable feedback rating can have his or her auction featured as a ""Featured Auction'' for $99.95, which
allows the seller's item to be rotated on the eBay home page, or as a ""Featured Plus!'' for $19.95, which allows
his or her item to appear in its category Featured Item section and in bidder's search results, and the item may
be selected for display in another area Ì the category index page Featured Items section. A seller can also
include a description of the product. In addition, a seller can include a photograph in the item's description if
the seller posts the photograph on a website and provides eBay with the appropriate Web address. Items may
be showcased in the Gallery section with a catalog of pictures rather than text. A seller who uses a photograph
in his or her listing can have this photograph included in the Gallery section for $0.25 or featured in the
Gallery section for $19.95. Certain categories of items, including real estate, automobiles and ""Premier'' have
diÅerent pricing. A seller can choose to list his or her item with the ""List in Two Categories'' feature, which
gives the item added visibility by listing it in two separate categories. The charge for ""List in Two Categories''
is double the insertion and optional feature fees (excluding home page featured). In addition, for $0.10 a seller
can choose to list his or her item for 10 days, the longest available duration. All pricing is subject to change.
How Transactions are Completed. When an auction ends, the eBay system validates if a bid exceeded
the minimum price, and the reserve price if one has been set. If the sale was successful, eBay automatically
notiÑes the buyer and seller via email and the buyer and seller can then consummate the transaction
independent of eBay. At the time of the email notiÑcation, eBay generally charges the seller a success fee
equal to 5% of the Ñrst $25 of the purchase price, 2.5% of that portion of the purchase price from $25.01 to
$1,000, and 1.25% of that portion of the purchase price over $1,000. At no point during the process does eBay
take possession of either the item being sold or the buyer's payment for the item. Rather, the buyer and seller
must independently arrange for the shipment of and payment for the item, with the buyer typically paying for
8
shipping. Under the terms of eBay's user agreement, if a seller receives one or more bids above the stated
minimum or reserve price, whichever is higher, the seller is obligated to complete a transaction, although eBay
has no power to force the seller or buyer to complete the transaction other than to suspend them from using
the eBay service. In the event the buyer and seller are unable to complete the transaction and the seller notiÑes
eBay, eBay credits the seller the amount of the success fee. When items that have a reserve price sell, sellers
are credited the $1.00 reserve fee. Invoices for placement fees, additional listing fees and success fees are sent
via email to sellers on a monthly basis. All new sellers are required to have a credit card account on Ñle with
eBay. Sellers who pay by credit card are charged shortly after the invoice is sent.
Feedback Forum. eBay pioneered a feature to facilitate the establishment of reputations within its
community by encouraging individuals to record comments about their trading partners on each transaction.
Every registered eBay user has a feedback proÑle containing compliments, criticisms and other comments by
users who have conducted business or interacted with the person. The Feedback Forum requires feedback to
be related to speciÑc transactions and provides an easy tool for them to match up transaction numbers with the
user names of their trading partners. This information is recorded in a feedback proÑle that includes a
feedback rating for the person and indicates comments from other eBay users who have interacted with that
person over the past seven days, the past month, the past six months and beyond. A user who has developed
positive reputations over time will have a color-coded star symbol displayed next to his or her user name to
indicate the amount of positive feedback received by the user. eBay users may review a person's feedback
proÑle to check on the person's reputation within the eBay community before deciding to bid on an item listed
by that person or in determining how to complete the payment for and delivery of the item.
The terms of eBay's user agreement prohibit actions that would undermine the integrity of the Feedback
Forum, such as a person's leaving positive feedback about himself or herself through other accounts or leaving
multiple negative feedback for others through other accounts. The Feedback Forum system has several
automated features designed to detect and prevent some forms of abuse. For example, feedback posting from
the same account, positive or negative, cannot aÅect a user's net feedback rating (i.e., the number of positive
postings, less the number of negative postings) by more than one point, no matter how many comments an
individual makes. Furthermore, a user can only give feedback to his or her trading partners in completed
transactions. Users who receive a suÇciently negative net feedback rating have their registrations suspended
and are unable to bid on or list items for sale. eBay believes its Feedback Forum is extremely useful in
overcoming initial user hesitancy when trading over the Internet, as it reduces the anonymity and uncertainty
of dealing with an unknown trading partner. See ""Risk Factors Ì We are subject to risks associated with
information disseminated through our service.''
Trust and Safety Initiatives. eBay developed a number of programs designed to make users more
comfortable with dealing with an unknown trading partner over the Web. In addition to the Feedback Forum,
eBay oÅers the SafeHarborTM program, which provides guidelines for trading, helps provide information to
resolve user disputes and responds to reports of misuses of the eBay service. eBay's SafeHarborTM staÅ
investigates users' complaints of possible misuse of eBay and take appropriate action, including issuing
warnings to users or suspending users from bidding on or listing items for sale. Some of the complaints the
SafeHarborTM staÅ investigates include various forms of bid manipulation, malicious posting of negative
feedback and posting illegal items for sale. The SafeHarborTM group is organized into three areas;
investigations, community watch and fraud prevention. The investigations group investigates reported trading
infractions and misuse of eBay. The fraud prevention department provides information to assist users with
disputes over the quality of the goods sold or potentially fraudulent transactions and, upon receipt of an
oÇcially Ñled, written claim of fraud from a user, will generally suspend the oÅending user from eBay. The
community watch department investigates the listing of illegal, infringing or inappropriate items on the eBay
site and violations of certain eBay policies. Upon receipt of a written claim of intellectual property
infringement by the owner of the intellectual property, eBay will remove the oÅending item from eBay. Users
who repeatedly infringe intellectual property rights are suspended. In addition, eBay has increased the number
of personnel reviewing potentially illegal items. eBay's trust and safety initiatives, including user identity
veriÑcation, insurance, integrated escrow and authentication, are intended to bolster eBay's reputation as a
safe place to trade. See ""Risk Factors Ì Our business may be harmed by fraudulent activities on our
9
website.'' eBay has also partnered with Infoglide, a leading provider of similarity search technology, to help
keep previously suspended users from re-registering on eBay. eBay has introduced a requirement that new
sellers must provide a credit card or pass an identity veriÑcation check before being allowed to sell. The
identify veriÑcation process is performed by Equifax.
What Can Be Purchased or Sold on eBay. The eBay service has grown from oÅering 10 product
categories when it was Ñrst introduced in September 1995 to oÅering more than 8,000 categories as of
December 31, 2000. As the number of product categories has grown, eBay periodically organizes the
categories under diÅerent headings to reÖect the major types of items currently listed. As of March 2001,
these product categories were organized under the following headings:
Specialty Sites
‚ eBay Motors
‚ eBay Premier
‚ Services for Business
‚ Half.com
Major Categories
‚ Antiques & Art
‚ Books
‚ Movies
‚ Music
‚ Business
‚ Clothing & Accessories
‚ Coins
‚ Stamps
‚ Collectibles
‚ Computers
‚ Network IT
‚ Dolls & Bears
‚ Home & Garden
‚ Jewelry, Gemstones
‚ Photo
‚ Electronics
‚ Pottery & Glass
‚ Real Estate
‚ Sports
‚ Tickets
‚ Travel
‚ Toys
‚ Hobbies & Crafts
‚ Everything Else
Each major category has numerous subcategories. As of December 31, 2000, eBay oÅered a selection of
over 6 million items, with the most popular items sold on eBay being those that are relatively standardized,
well-represented with a photo (and therefore can be evaluated to some degree without a physical inspection),
small and easily shipped and relatively inexpensive. As the eBay community grows and additional items are
listed, eBay will continue to organize items for sale under additional categories to respond to the needs of the
eBay community.
Community Services. Beyond providing a convenient means of trading, eBay has devoted substantial
resources to building an online trading community, which eBay believes is one of the strongest on the Web.
Key components of eBay's community philosophy are maintaining an honest and open marketplace and
treating individual users with respect. eBay oÅers a variety of community and support features that are
designed to solidify the growth of the eBay community and to build eBay user aÇnity and loyalty such as
announcement and bulletin boards, customer support boards as well as other topical or category-speciÑc
information exchanges.
eBay oÅers My eBay, which permits users to receive a report of their recent activity on eBay, including
bidding activity, selling activity, account balances, favorite categories and recent feedback. Users with their
own Web pages also can post links from the user's page to eBay and to a list of items the user is selling on
eBay. eBay also oÅers About Me, which oÅers users the opportunity to create their own personal home page
free of charge on eBay using step-by-step instructions provided by eBay. The About Me home page can
include personal information, items listed for sale, eBay feedback ratings, images and links to other favorite
sites.
In addition, in June 1998, eBay donated 643,500 shares of common stock to the Community Foundation
Silicon Valley, a tax-exempt donor-advised public charity, and established a fund known as the ""eBay
Foundation.'' Through the Community Foundation Silicon Valley, the eBay Foundation sponsors programs
including a recent program in which teachers travel abroad and share their experiences with their students.
Since its inception, the eBay foundation has made million of dollars in grants to dozens of programs and
10
initiatives focusing on education and expanded access to technology. eBay also solicits user suggestions for
worthwhile charities through the eBay website, where charity auctions and other unique promotions are held
to support such causes
Customer Support. eBay devotes signiÑcant resources to providing personalized, timely customer service
and support. eBay oÅers customer support on a seven day a week basis. Most customer support inquiries are
handled via email, with customer email inquiries typically being answered within 24 hours after submission. In
2000, eBay continued its relationship with SatMetrix (formerly known as Customer Cast), an online customer
satisfaction survey company, to help eBay understand and improve overall customer support. Overall customer
satisfaction with eBay's support services has remained extremely high. eBay also oÅers an online tutorial for
new eBay users. In 2000, eBay completed the relocation of all customer support personnel to its center in Salt
Lake City, Utah.
The Half.com Fixed-Price Format
Half.com oÅers a Ñxed-price, online website to buy and sell high quality, previously owned goods at
discounted prices. Unlike auctions, where the selling price is based on bidding, the seller Ñxes the price for
items at the time an item is listed.
Registration. While any visitor to Half.com can browse through the site and view the items listed for
sale, in order to buy an item or to list an item for sale, buyers and sellers must Ñrst register with Half.com. To
register, visitors must provide their name, address, phone number and email address. To become a buyer,
visitors must provide valid credit card information. To become a seller, visitors must have a valid credit card,
and, for some sellers, Half.com will require bank account information, tax identiÑcation number or a social
security number.
Buying on Half.com. Buying at Half.com is similar to the shopping experience at other leading on-line
retailers. Shoppers can easily search for speciÑc books, CDs, movies and video games or browse for items that
are categorized and surrounded with product descriptions, reviews and artwork. Just like any online retail
store, shoppers Ñll their shopping cart and check out with a credit card. Customers can also see real-time price
comparisons of new versions of the same item through an on-screen shopping agent that shows prices from
other Internet retailers.
Selling on Half.com. Sellers wishing to sell items on the Half.com site simply type in the ISBN or UPC
bar code number, select the item's condition, conÑrm the sale price, and the item is immediately listed.
Half.com automatically adds descriptions and pictures to each listing, so sellers do not need to do it
themselves. There are no fees to list items on Half.com.
Until recently, a Seller could enter any price they wished Ì as long as it was less than half-oÅ the original
list price. To increase the selection of items available to buy and sell, especially with newly released and hard-
to-Ñnd items, Half.com now allows sellers to list items above half price in each category
In an eÅort to help users price their products competitively, Half.com provides a suggested selling price.
The suggested selling price for an item is calculated as a percentage of the best on-line retail price for a new
copy of the item, depending on the quality of the item. The Half.com pricing recommendations as a
percentage of the best online retail price are as follows:
Condition
Like New
Very Good
Good
Acceptable
Suggested Percentage
50%
45%
40%
35%
How transactions are completed. When a buyer selects an item for purchase, sellers are sent an email
notifying them to ship the item. Once the seller conÑrms that the item is being shipped, the buyer's credit card
is charged. At least once a month, sellers are sent a check from Half.com for all items sold during the previous
period, less Half.com's 15% commission. Sellers also receive an allowance for shipping costs.
11
Buyer Protection Policy. Half.com reserves the right to suspend the membership of any Buyer or Seller
that Half.com feels has attempted to commit fraud by misusing the Half.com Buyer Protection Policy for his
or her own personal gain. Half.com also reserves the right to reduce a Seller's account balance, withdrawal
from a Seller's ACH account or charge the Seller's credit card in order to recover damages related to fraud. In
addition, abuse of this policy is a criminal oÅense and violators will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the
law.
Marketing
eBay's marketing strategy is to promote its brand and attract buyers and sellers to the eBay and Half.com
services. To attract users, eBay historically has relied primarily on word of mouth and, to a lesser extent, on
distribution or sponsorship relationships with high traÇc websites. Today, eBay employs a variety of methods
to promote its brand and attract potential buyers and sellers. Currently, eBay uses strategic purchases of online
advertising to place advertisements in areas in which eBay believes it can reach its target audience. eBay also
engages in a number of marketing activities in traditional media such as radio, broadcast and national and
local TV advertising, print media, trade shows and other events. eBay also advertises in a number of category-
speciÑc publications. eBay continues to beneÑt from frequent and high visibility media exposure both
nationally and locally. While eBay does not expect the frequency or quality of this type of publicity to
continue, eBay promotes public relations through initiatives such as online eBay/special event tie-ins and
executive speaking engagements. In March 1999, eBay expanded the scope of its preexisting strategic
relationship with AOL. Under the amended agreement, eBay is given a prominent presence featuring it as the
preferred provider of online trading services on AOL's proprietary services (both domestic and international),
AOL.com, Digital Cities, ICQ, CompuServe (both domestic and international) and Netscape. eBay will pay
$75 million over the four-year term of the contract. eBay has developed a co-branded version of its service for
each AOL property which prominently features each party's brand. AOL is entitled to all advertising revenue
from the co-branded sites.
Operations and Technology
eBay has a scalable user interface and transaction processing system that is based on internally-developed
proprietary software. The eBay system facilitates the sale process, including notifying users via email when
they initially register for the service, when they place a successful bid, are outbid, place an item for sale, and
when an auction ends. Furthermore, the system sends daily status updates to any active sellers and bidders
regarding the status of their current auctions. The system maintains user registration information, billing
accounts, current auctions and historical listings. All information is regularly archived for record-keeping and
analysis purposes. Complete listings of all items for sale are generated regularly. The system regularly updates
a text-based search engine with the titles and descriptions of new items, as well as pricing and bidding updates
for active items. Every time an item is listed on the service, a listing enhancement option is selected by a seller,
or an auction closes with a bid in excess of the seller-speciÑed minimum bid, the system makes an entry into
the seller's billing account. The system sends electronic invoices to all sellers via email on a monthly basis. For
convenience, sellers may place a credit card account number on Ñle with eBay, and their account balance is
billed directly. Sellers that are new to the eBay service are now required to place a credit card account number
on Ñle. In addition to these features, the eBay service also supports a number of community bulletin board and
chat areas where users and eBay customer support personnel can interact.
Half.com's technology is similarly scalable and multi-purpose. Also based on internally-developed
software, the Half.com system facilitates the listing process and sale transaction for Ñxed price items in select
categories including books, movies, music and video games. The Half.com system allows a seller to list
inventory easily by providing the UPC, ISBN (or other similar product identiÑcation code), the price at which
the seller desires to sell the item and the quality of the item. All other product information and descriptions are
provided on the Half.com site. The Half.com system notiÑes a seller when a buyer places an oÅer, asks the
seller to conÑrm within two days and, if the sale is accepted, ship the item within one day. The Half.com
system further facilitates transactions by enabling a buyer's credit card or bank account to be debited (at the
member's choice), and enabling a seller's bank account to be credited or sending the seller a check (again, at
12
the members' choice). Information on Half.com's systems is regularly archived for record-keeping and
analysis purposes. Half.com is expecting to accelerate their ongoing eÅort to oÅer enhanced search features.
eBay's system has been designed around industry standard architectures and has been designed to reduce
downtime in the event of outages or catastrophic occurrences. The eBay service provides 24 hour, seven day a
week availability, subject to a maintenance period for a few hours during one night per week. eBay's system
hardware is hosted at the Exodus and Abovenet facilities in Santa Clara, California, which provide redundant
communications lines and emergency power backup. eBay's system consists of Sun database servers running
Oracle relational database management systems with a mix of Sun and Hitachi storage and a suite of
Pentium-based Internet servers running the Windows NT operating system. eBay uses Resonate Inc.'s load
balancing systems and its own redundant servers to provide for fault tolerance. eBay has experienced periodic
system interruptions, which it believes will continue to occur from time to time. These outages have stemmed
from a variety of causes, including third-party hardware and software problems, human error and eBay
proprietary software issues. The volume of traÇc on eBay's website and the number of items being listed by
users has been increasing continually, requiring eBay to expand and upgrade its technology, transaction
processing systems and network infrastructure and add new engineering personnel. The process of upgrading
and expansion is part of the routine maintenance and revision of the site. Hardware and software changes
associated with the continuous revision have been capitalized in accordance with company policy and are
included in computer equipment and software. Due to the speed of change and continuous nature of site
revision, internal expenses often are judged to have useful lives of less than one year, or have been more
appropriately classiÑed as maintenance-related costs. As such, these costs are expensed as incurred. eBay may
be unable to accurately project the rate or timing of increases, if any, in the use of the eBay service or expand
and upgrade its systems and infrastructure to accommodate these increases in a timely manner. Any failure to
expand or upgrade its systems at least as fast as the growth in demand for capacity could cause the website to
become unstable and possibly cease to operate for periods of time. Unscheduled downtime could harm eBay's
business.
eBay uses internally developed systems to operate its service and for transaction processing, including
billing and collections processing. eBay must continually improve these systems to accommodate the level of
use of its website. In addition, eBay may add new features and functionality to its services that would result in
the need to develop or license additional technologies. eBay's inability to add additional software and hardware
or to upgrade its technology, transaction processing systems or network infrastructure to accommodate
increased traÇc or transaction volume could have adverse consequences. These consequences include
unanticipated system disruptions, slower response times, degradation in levels of customer support, impaired
quality of the users' experience on its service and delays in reporting accurate Ñnancial information. eBay's
failure to provide new features or functionality also could result in these consequences. eBay may be unable to
eÅectively upgrade and expand its systems in a timely manner or integrate smoothly any newly developed or
purchased technologies with its existing systems. These diÇculties could harm or limit its ability to expand its
business. See ""Risk Factors Ì The inability to expand our systems may limit our growth and Ì System
failures could harm our business.''
eBay incurred $4.6 million, $24.8 million and $55.9 million in product development expenses in 1998,
1999 and 2000, respectively. eBay anticipates that it will continue to devote signiÑcant resources to product
development in the future as it adds new features and functionality to the eBay service. eBay capitalizes
hardware and software associated with added features or functionality in accordance with company policy and
includes such amounts in computer equipment and software. Internal expenses are often judged to have useful
lives of less than one year, or have been more appropriately classiÑed as maintenance-related costs. As such,
these costs are expensed as incurred. The space in which eBay competes is characterized by rapidly changing
technology, evolving industry standards, frequent new service and product announcements, introductions and
enhancements and changing customer demands. Accordingly, eBay's future success will depend on its ability
to adapt to rapidly changing technologies, adapt its services to evolving industry standards and to improve the
performance, features and reliability of its service in response to competitive service and product oÅerings and
evolving demands of the Internet. To address the need for rapid change as well as stability, eBay has
undertaken a project to enhance its current architecture. The new architecture is intended to facilitate
13
continued stability, improved availability and load balancing. The proposed architecture should also improve
search and listing functionality. This project, which is in the analysis and design phase, is expected to be on-
going, with phased rollouts through 2003. We plan to time these rollouts so as to minimize the impact to our
community. The failure of eBay to adapt to these changes would harm eBay's business. In addition, the
widespread adoption of new Internet, networking or telecommunications technologies or other technological
changes could require substantial expenditures by eBay to modify or adapt eBay's services or infrastructure.
See ""Risk Factors Ì Our failure to manage growth could harm us, Ì We must keep pace with rapid
technological change to remain competitive and Ì We need to develop new services, features and functions in
order to expand.''
Competition
Depending on the category of product, eBay currently or potentially competes with a number of
companies serving particular categories of goods as well as those serving broader ranges of goods. The Internet
is a new, rapidly evolving and intensely competitive area. eBay expects competition to intensify in the future as
the barriers to entry are relatively low, and current and new competitors can launch new sites at a nominal cost
using commercially available software. eBay's broad-based competitors include the vast majority of traditional
department and general merchandise stores as well as emerging online retailers. These include most
prominently: Wal-Mart, Kmart, Target, Sears, Macy's, JC Penney, Costco, Sam's Club as well as Ama-
zon.com, Buy.com, AOL.com, Yahoo! shopping and MSN.
Antiques: Christie's, eHammer, Sotheby's/Sothebys.com
Coins & Stamps: Collectors Universe, Heritage, Numismatists Online, US Mint
Collectibles: Franklin Mint
Musical Instruments: Guitar Center, Harmony-Central.com, MARRS, MusicHotBid.com
Sports Memorabilia: Beckett's, Collectors Universe
Toys, Bean Bag Plush: Amazon.com, KB Toys, Toys.com
Premium Collectibles: Christies, DuPont Registry, Greg Manning Auctions, iCollector, Lycos/Skinner
Auctions, Millionaire.com, Phillips (LVMH), Sotheby's, Sothebys.com
Automotive (used cars): Autobytel.com, AutoVantage.com, AutoWeb.com, Barrett-Jackson,
CarOrder.com, CarPoint, Collectorcartraderonline.com, eClassics.com, Edmunds, CarsDirect.com, Hem-
mings, imotors.com, vehix.com, newspaper classiÑeds, used car dealers
Books, Movies, Music: Amazon.com, Barnes & Noble, Barnesandnoble.com, BigStar, Blockbuster,
BMG Columbia House, CDNow, DVD Express, Wherehouse, Alibris.com, Emusic.com, BookÑnders.com
Clothing: BlueÖy.com, Dockers.com, FashionMall.com, The Gap, J. Crew, LandsEnd.com, The Lim-
ited, Macys, The Men's Wearhouse, Ross, 3Dshopping.com
Computers & Consumer Electronics: Best Buy, Buy.com, Circuit City, Compaq, CompUSA, Dell,
Egghead, Fry's Electronics, Gateway, The Good Guys, IBM, MicroWarehouse, The Sharper Image,
Shopping.com
Home & Garden: IKEA, Crate & Barrel, Home Depot, Garden.com, Pottery Barn, Ethan Allen,
Frontgate, Lowes
Jewelry: Ashford.com, Mondera.com
Sporting Goods/Equipment: dsports.com, FogDog.com, Footlocker, Gear.com, golfclubexchange,
MVP.com, PlanetOutdoors.com, Play It Again Sports, REI, Sports Authority, Sportsline.com
Tool/Equipment/Hardware: Home Depot, HomeBase, Amazon.com, Ace Hardware, OSH, Lowes
14
Business-to-Business: Ariba, BidFreight.com, BizBuyer.com, bLiquid.com, CloseOutNow.com, Com-
merce One, Concur Technologies, DoveBid, FreeMarkets, Oracle, PurchasePro.com, RicardoBiz.com, Sabre,
SurplusBin.com, UnionStreet.com, Ventro, VerticalNet
Additionally, eBay faces competition from various online auction sites including: Amazon.com, the
Fairmarket Auction Network (an auction network including Microsoft's MSN, Excite@Home, Dell Com-
puter, ZD Net, Lycos and more than 100 others), First Auction, Surplus Auction, uBid, Yahoo! Auctions and
a large number of other companies using an auction format for consumer-to-consumer or business-to-
consumer sales. Overseas, we face competition from Yahoo! Auctions in most countries and from a large
number of regional and national competitors in each country.
The principal competitive factors for eBay include the following:
‚ ability to attract buyers;
‚ volume of transactions and selection of goods;
‚ customer service; and
‚ brand recognition.
With respect to eBay's online competition, additional competitive factors are:
‚ community cohesion and interaction;
‚ system reliability;
‚ reliability of delivery and payment;
‚ website convenience and accessibility;
‚ level of service fees; and
‚ quality of search tools.
Some current and potential competitors have longer company operating histories, larger customer bases
and greater brand recognition in other business and Internet spaces than eBay does. Some of these competitors
also have signiÑcantly greater Ñnancial, marketing, technical and other resources. Other online trading services
may be acquired by, receive investments from or enter into other commercial relationships with larger, well-
established and well-Ñnanced companies. As a result, some of eBay's competitors with other revenue sources
may be able to devote more resources to marketing and promotional campaigns, adopt more aggressive pricing
policies and devote substantially more resources to website and systems development than we are able to.
Increased competition may result in reduced operating margins, loss of market share and diminished value of
our brand. Some of eBay's competitors have oÅered services for free, and others may do this as well. eBay may
be unable to compete successfully against current and future competitors.
In order to respond to changes in the competitive environment, eBay may, from time to time, make
pricing, service or marketing decisions or acquisitions that could harm its business. For example, eBay has
implemented an insurance program that generally insures items up to a value of $200, with a $25 deductible,
for users with a non-negative feedback rating at no cost to the user. New technologies may increase the
competitive pressures by enabling our competitors to oÅer a lower cost service. Some Internet-based
applications that direct Internet traÇc to certain websites may channel users to trading services that compete
with eBay.
Although eBay has established Internet traÇc arrangements with several large online services and search
engine companies, these arrangements may not be renewed on commercially reasonable terms. Even if these
arrangements are renewed, they may not result in increased usage of its service. In addition, companies that
control access to transactions through network access or Internet browsers could promote eBay's competitors
or charge eBay substantial fees for inclusion.
15
The oÉine auction business is intensely competitive. ButterÑelds competes with two larger and better
known auction companies, Sotheby's Holdings, Inc. and Christie's International plc, as well as numerous
regional auction companies. To the extent that these companies increase their focus on the middle market
properties that form the core of ButterÑelds' business or in the western United States, its business may suÅer.
Kruse is subject to competition from numerous regional competitors. In addition, competition with Internet-
based auctions may harm the land-based auction business. Although Billpoint's business is new, several new
companies have entered this space, including competitors who are oÅering free services and signiÑcant
promotional incentives, and large companies, including banks and credit card companies, are also beginning to
enter this space. Half.com competes directly with online retailers in its product categories such as
Amazon.com which oÅers a directly competitive service, as well as with traditional sellers of used books,
videos and CDs.
Employees
As of March 1, 2001, eBay had 1,927 full-time employees. eBay's future is substantially dependent on the
performance of its senior management and key technical personnel, and its continuing ability to Ñnd and retain
highly qualiÑed technical and managerial personnel. See ""Risk Factors Ì We are dependent on key
personnel.''
Issues Related to the Listing or Sale by Users of Unlawful Items
eBay has received in the past, and we anticipate we will receive in the future, communications alleging
that certain items listed or sold through our service by its users infringe third-party copyrights, trademarks and
tradenames or other intellectual property rights. Although eBay has actively sought to work with the content
community to eliminate infringing listings on its website, some content owners have expressed the view that
our eÅorts are insuÇcient. Content owners have been active in defending their rights against online companies,
including eBay. An allegation of infringement of third-party intellectual property rights may result in litigation
against eBay. Any such litigation could be costly for eBay, could result in increased costs of doing business
through adverse judgment or settlement, could require eBay to change its business practices in expensive ways,
or could otherwise harm its business. Litigation against other online companies could result in interpretations
of the law that could also require eBay to change its business practices or otherwise increase its costs. See
""Legal Proceedings'' and ""Risk Factors Ì We are subject to intellectual property and other litigation.''
Fraudulent Activities on the eBay Website
eBay's future success will depend largely upon sellers reliably delivering and accurately representing their
listed goods and buyers paying the agreed purchase price. eBay has received in the past, and anticipates that it
will receive in the future, communications from users who did not receive the purchase price or the goods that
were to have been exchanged. In some cases individuals have been arrested and convicted for fraudulent
activities using eBay's website. While eBay can suspend the accounts of users who fail to fulÑll their delivery
obligations to other users, eBay does not have the ability to require users to make payments or deliver goods or
otherwise make users whole other than through its limited insurance program. Other than through this
program, eBay does not compensate users who believe they have been defrauded by other users. eBay also
periodically receives complaints from buyers as to the quality of the goods purchased. Negative publicity
generated as a result of fraudulent or deceptive conduct by users of its service could damage our reputation
and diminish the value of our brand name. eBay expects to continue to receive requests from users requesting
reimbursement or threatening or commencing legal action against us if no reimbursement is made. This sort of
litigation could be costly for us, divert management attention, result in increased costs of doing business, lead
to adverse judgments or could otherwise harm its business. See ""Risk Factors Ì Our business may be harmed
by fraudulent activities on our website.''
Government Inquiries
On January 29, 1999, eBay received initial requests to produce certain records and information to the
federal government relating to an investigation of possible illegal transactions in connection with its website.
16
eBay was informed that the inquiry includes an examination of its practices with respect to these transactions.
eBay has provided further information in connection with this ongoing inquiry. In order to protect the
investigation, the court has ordered that no further public disclosures be made with respect to the matter.
On March 24, 2000, ButterÑelds received a grand jury subpoena from the Antitrust Division of the
Department of Justice requesting documents relating to, among other things, changes in ButterÑelds' seller
commissions and buyer premiums and discussions, agreements or understandings with other auction houses, in
each case since 1992. eBay believes this request may be related to a publicly reported criminal investigation of
auction houses for price Ñxing. eBay has provided the information requested in the subpoena.
Should these or any other investigations lead to civil or criminal charges against eBay, we would likely be
harmed by negative publicity, the costs of litigation, the diversion of management time and other negative
eÅects, even if eBay ultimately prevails. eBay's business would suÅer if it were not to prevail in any actions like
these. Even the process of providing records and information can be expensive, time consuming and result in
the diversion of management attention.
A large number of transactions occur on eBay's websites. eBay believes that government regulators have
received a substantial number of consumer complaints about eBay which, while small as a percentage of its
total transactions, are large in aggregate numbers. As a result, eBay has from time to time been contacted by
various foreign, federal, state and local regulatory agencies and been told that they have questions with respect
to the adequacy of the steps eBay takes to protect its users from fraud. eBay is likely to receive additional
inquiries from regulatory agencies in the future, which may lead to action against it. eBay has responded to all
inquiries from regulatory agencies by describing its current and planned antifraud eÅorts. If one or more of
these agencies is not satisÑed with eBay's response to current or future inquiries, the resultant investigations
and potential Ñnes or other penalties could harm its business.
eBay has provided information to the antitrust division of the Department of Justice in connection with
an inquiry into its conduct with respect to ""auction aggregators'' including our licensing program and our
recently settled lawsuit against Bidder's Edge. Should the division decide to take action against eBay, we
would likely be harmed by negative publicity, the costs of the action, possible private antitrust lawsuits, the
diversion of management time and eÅort and penalties we might suÅer if we ultimately were not to prevail.
Privacy Policy
eBay believes that issues relating to privacy and the use of personal information relating to Internet users
are becoming increasingly important as the Internet and its commercial use grow. eBay has adopted a detailed
privacy policy that outlines how eBay uses information concerning its users and the extent to which other
registered eBay users may have access to this information. Users must acknowledge and agree to this policy
when registering for the eBay service. eBay does not sell or rent any personally identiÑable information about
its users to any third party; however, eBay does disclose information to sellers and winning bidders that
contains the seller's and winning bidder's name, email address and telephone number. eBay also discloses
certain personally identiÑable information to its subsidiaries and business partners in connection with the
provision of services by these entities. eBay also will disclose customer information in its possession (other
than credit card information) to a law enforcement agency or member of the eBay's VeriÑed Rights Owner
program that requests this information in connection with a civil, criminal or regulatory investigation. eBay
also uses information about its users for internal purposes in order to improve marketing and promotional
eÅorts, to analyze website usage statistically, and to improve content, product oÅerings and website layout.
eBay is a member of the TRUSTe program, a non-proÑt independent organization that audits websites'
privacy statements and audits their adherence thereto.
New and Existing Regulation of the Internet
eBay is subject to the same federal, state and local laws as other companies conducting business on the
Internet. Today there are relatively few laws speciÑcally directed towards online services. However, due to the
increasing popularity and use of the Internet and online services, many laws relating to the Internet are being
debated at the state and federal levels (both in the U.S. and abroad) and it is possible that laws and
17
regulations will be adopted with respect to the Internet or online services. These laws and regulations could
cover issues such as user privacy, freedom of expression, pricing, fraud, content and quality of products and
services, taxation, advertising, intellectual property rights and information security. Applicability to the
Internet of existing laws governing issues such as property ownership, copyrights and other intellectual
property issues, taxation, libel, obscenity and personal privacy is uncertain. The vast majority of these laws
were adopted prior to the advent of the Internet and related technologies and, as a result, do not contemplate
or address the unique issues of the Internet and related technologies. Those laws that do reference the
Internet, such as the Digital Millennium Copyright Act, are only beginning to be interpreted by the courts and
their applicability and reach are therefore uncertain. In addition, numerous states, including the State of
California, where our headquarters is located, have regulations regarding how ""auctions'' may be conducted
and the liability of ""auctioneers'' in conducting such auctions. No Ñnal legal determination has been made
with respect to the applicability of the California regulations to its business to date and little precedent exists
in this area. Several states are considering imposing these regulations upon us or our users, which could harm
our business. In addition, as the nature of the products listed by our users change, we may become subject to
new regulatory restrictions.
Several states have proposed legislation that would limit the uses of personal user information gathered
online or require online services to establish privacy policies. The Federal Trade Commission has also settled
several proceedings regarding the manner in which personal information is collected from users and provided
to third parties. Changes to existing laws or the passage of new laws intended to address these issues could
directly aÅect the way we do business or could create uncertainty on the Internet. This could reduce demand
for its services, increase the cost of doing business as a result of litigation costs or increased service delivery
costs, or otherwise harm our business. In addition, because our services are accessible worldwide, and we
facilitate sales of goods to users worldwide, foreign jurisdictions may claim that we are required to comply with
their laws. For example, a French court has recently ruled that a U.S. website must comply with French laws
regarding content. As we have expanded our international activities, we have become obligated to comply with
the laws of the countries in which we operate. Laws regulating Internet companies outside of the United
States are in many ways less favorable then those in the United States, giving greater rights to consumers,
content owners and users or placing more extensive restrictions on our operations than exist in the U.S.
Compliance may be more costly or may require us to change our business practices or restrict its service
oÅerings relative to those in the United States. Our failure to comply with foreign laws could subject eBay to
penalties ranging from Ñnes to bans on our ability to oÅer our services. See ""Risk Factors Ì There are many
risks associated with our international operations.''
Item 2: Properties
On March 1, 2000, eBay entered into a Ñve-year lease for approximately 460,000 square feet of which the
online segment occupies approximately 190,000 square feet of general oÇce facilities located in San Jose,
California. Payments under this lease, which commenced during 2000, are based on a spread over the London
Interbank OÅering Rate (""LIBOR'') applied to the $126.4 million cost of the facility funded by the lessor.
eBay has an option to renew the lease for up to two Ñve-year extensions subject to speciÑc conditions. Under
the terms of the lease agreement, eBay was required to place $126.4 million of cash and investment securities
as collateral for the term of the lease. The cash and investment securities are restricted as to their withdrawal
from the third party trustee and are classiÑed as long-term restricted cash and investments in the
accompanying balance sheet.
eBay entered into two interest rate swaps on June 19 and July 20, 2000, totaling $95 million, to reduce the
impact of changes in interest rates on a portion of the Öoating rate operating lease for our facilities. The
interest rate swaps allow eBay to receive Öoating rate receipts based on LIBOR in exchange for making Ñxed
rate payments which eÅectively changes the interest rate exposure on our operating lease from a Öoating rate
to a Ñxed rate on $95 million of the total $126.4 million operating lease.
The online segment leases an additional 140,000 square feet of oÇce space. This oÇce space is primarily
for eBay's customer call center in Utah and Half.com's administrative oÇces in Pennsylvania. OÇce space for
18
the online segment's international subsidiaries is leased in Australia, England, Germany, Japan, Italy,
Switzerland and France.
The oÉine segment owns facilities in California and Indiana with an aggregate of approximately 700,000
square feet. Of the 700,000 square feet, eBay is a majority interest holder in 187,000 square feet of oÇce space
and the sole owner of the remaining balance.
eBay believes that its existing facilities are adequate to meet its needs for the immediate future and future
growth can be accommodated by leasing additional or alternative space.
Item 3: Legal Proceedings
On September 1, 1999, eBay was served with a lawsuit Ñled by Randall Stoner, on behalf of the general
public, in San Francisco Superior Court (No. 305666). The lawsuit alleged that eBay violated Section 17200
of the California Business & Professions Code, a statute that relates to unfair competition, based upon the
listing of ""bootleg'' or ""pirate'' recordings by eBay's users, allegedly in violation of California penal statutes
relating to the sale of unauthorized audio recordings. The lawsuit sought declaratory and injunctive relief,
restitution and legal fees. eBay Ñled a general demurrer which was sustained by the court with leave to amend.
The plaintiÅ subsequently Ñled an amended complaint. eBay Ñled a motion for summary judgement. On
November 7, 2000, eBay's motion for summary judgement was granted.
On December 10, 1999, eBay sued Bidder's Edge, Inc. in the United States District Court for the
Northern District of California alleging trespass, unfair competition, violation of the computer fraud and abuse
act, misappropriation, false advertising, trademark dilution, injury to business reputation, interference with
prospective economic advantage, and unjust enrichment. On February 7, 2000, Bidder's Edge denied these
claims and counterclaimed against eBay alleging that eBay violated the antitrust laws by monopolizing or
attempting to monopolize a market, that eBay competed unfairly, and that eBay interfered with Bidder's
Edge's contract with eBay magazine. Bidder's Edge sought treble damages, an injunction and its fees and
costs. On May 24, 2000, the court granted us a preliminary injunction against the use by Bidder's Edge of
robotic means to copy eBay's site. In February 2001, the parties settled this lawsuit. All claims by both parties
were dismissed, and Bidder's Edge paid eBay an undisclosed amount.
On April 25, 2000, eBay was served with a lawsuit, Gentry et.al. v. eBay, Inc. et.al, Ñled in Superior Court
in San Diego, California. The lawsuit was Ñled on behalf of a purported class of eBay users who purchased
allegedly forged autographed sports memorabilia on eBay. The lawsuit claims eBay was negligent in
permitting certain named (and other unnamed) defendants to sell allegedly forged autographed sports
memorabilia on eBay. In addition, the lawsuit claims eBay violated Section 17200 and a section of the
California Civil Code which prohibits ""dealers'' from selling sports memorabilia without a ""CertiÑcate of
Authenticity.'' On January 26, 2001, the Court issued a ruling dismissing all claims against eBay in the
lawsuit. The Court ruled that eBay's business falls within the safe harbor provisions of 47 USC 230, which
grants internet service providers such as eBay with immunity from state claims based on the conduct of third
parties. The Court also noted that eBay was not a ""dealer'' under California law and thus not required to
provide certiÑcates of authenticity with autographs sold over its site by third parties. All counts of the
plaintiÅs' suit were dismissed with prejudice as to eBay. PlaintiÅs have appealed this ruling. We believe that
we have meritorious defenses and intend to defend ourselves vigorously.
Other third parties have from time to time claimed and may claim in the future that eBay has infringed
their past, current or future intellectual property rights. eBay may become more vulnerable to such claims as
laws such as the Digital Millennium Copyright Act are interpreted by the courts. eBay expects that it will
increasingly be subject to infringement claims as the number of services and direct competitors grow. These
claims, whether meritorious or not, could be time-consuming, result in costly litigation, cause service upgrade
delays, require expensive changes in our methods of doing business or could require eBay to enter into costly
royalty or licensing agreements, if available. As a result, these claims could harm our business.
19
From time to time, eBay is involved in disputes that have arisen in the ordinary course of business.
Management believes that the ultimate resolution of these disputes will not have a material adverse impact on
eBay's Ñnancial position, results of operations or cash Öows.
Item 4: Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders
There were no submissions of matters to a vote of security holders during the fourth quarter ended
December 31, 2000.
20
PART II
Item 5: Market for Registrant's Common Equity and Related Stockholder Matters
Price Range of Common Stock
eBay's common stock has been traded on The Nasdaq Stock MarketSM under the symbol ""EBAY'' since
September 24, 1998. The following table sets forth the high and low sales prices of eBay's common stock for
the periods indicated and are as reported on The Nasdaq Stock MarketSM. The stock quotes are adjusted to
reÖect the stock splits in 1999 and 2000.
High
Low
Year Ended December 31, 1999
First QuarterÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Second Quarter ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Third Quarter ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Fourth Quarter ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
$ 88.69
117.00
80.50
93.00
Year Ended December 31, 2000
First QuarterÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Second Quarter ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Third Quarter ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Fourth Quarter ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
127.50
93.88
77.56
70.25
$27.67
63.34
35.14
62.25
58.69
48.56
43.50
26.75
As of March 1, 2001 there were approximately 1,500 stockholders of record of the eBay's common stock,
although eBay believes that there is a signiÑcantly larger number of beneÑcial owners of its common stock.
Dividend Policy
eBay has never paid cash dividends on its stock, and anticipates that it will continue to retain any future
earnings to Ñnance the growth of its business.
21
Item 6: Selected Consolidated Financial Data
The following selected consolidated Ñnancial data should be read in conjunction with, and are qualiÑed by
reference to, the Consolidated Financial Statements and Notes thereto and ""Management's Discussion and
Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations'' appearing elsewhere in this report. The
consolidated statement of income and the consolidated balance sheet data for the years ended December 31,
1996, 1997, 1998, 1999 and 2000, are derived from, and are qualiÑed by reference to, the audited consolidated
Ñnancial statements of eBay.
Consolidated Statement of Income Data:
Net revenues ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Cost of net revenues ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Gross proÑt ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Operating expenses:
Sales and marketing ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Product development ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
General and administrative ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Payroll expense on employee
stock options ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Amortization of acquired intangibles ÏÏÏ
Merger related costs ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Total operating expenses ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Income (loss) from operations ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Interest and other income (expense), netÏÏÏ
Income before income taxes ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Provision for income taxes ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Net income ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Net income per share(1):
1996
$32,051
6,803
25,248
13,139
28
5,661
Ì
Ì
Ì
18,828
6,420
(2,607)
3,813
(475)
$ 3,338
Year Ended December 31,
1999
1998
1997
(in thousands, except per share data)
2000
$ 41,370
8,404
32,966
$ 86,129
16,094
70,035
$224,724
57,588
167,136
$431,424
95,453
335,971
15,618
831
6,534
Ì
Ì
Ì
22,983
9,983
(1,951)
8,032
(971)
$ 7,061
166,767
55,863
73,027
2,337
1,433
1,550
300,977
34,994
46,025
81,019
(32,725)
$ 48,294
35,976
4,640
15,849
Ì
805
Ì
57,270
12,765
(703)
12,062
(4,789)
7,273
0.07
0.03
$
$
$
96,239
24,847
43,919
Ì
1,145
4,359
170,509
(3,373)
21,412
18,039
(8,472)
9,567
$
$
$
0.04
0.04
$
$
0.19
0.17
Basic ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Diluted ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
$
$
0.20
0.04
$
$
0.14
0.04
Weighted average shares:
Basic ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Diluted ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
16,979
90,119
48,854
169,550
104,128
233,519
217,674
273,033
251,776
280,346
Supplemental Operating Data
(unaudited):
Number of registered users at
end of period ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Gross merchandise sales, in millions(2)ÏÏÏ
Number of items listed, in millions ÏÏÏÏÏÏ
$
41
7
289
$
341
95
4,394
$
2,181
745
33,668
$
10,006
2,805
129,560
$
22,472
5,422
264,653
22
1996
1997
1998
1999
2000
(in thousands)
December 31,
Consolidated Balance Sheet Data:
Cash and cash equivalents ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Short-term investments ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Long-term investments ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Restricted cash and investments ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Working capital ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Total assets ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Long-term debt ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Total stockholders' equity ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
$ 2,909
Ì
Ì
Ì
(1,676)
49,909
19,709
6,600
$12,109
Ì
Ì
Ì
(1,881)
62,350
16,307
9,722
$ 37,285
40,401
Ì
Ì
72,934
149,536
18,361
100,538
$221,801
181,086
373,988
Ì
372,266
969,825
15,018
854,129
$ 201,873
354,166
218,197
126,390
538,022
1,182,403
11,404
1,013,760
(1) See Note 2 of Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for a description of the method used to
compute basic and diluted net income per share, respectively.
(2) Represents the aggregate sales prices of all goods for which an auction was successfully concluded
(i.e., there was at least one bid above the seller's speciÑed minimum price or reserve price, whichever is
higher).
23
Item 7: Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
FORWARD LOOKING STATEMENTS
This document contains certain forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties, such as
statements of eBay's plans, objectives, expectations and intentions. When used in this document, the words
""expects,'' ""anticipates,'' ""intends'' and ""plans'' and similar expressions are intended to identify certain of
these forward-looking statements. The cautionary statements made in this document should be read as being
applicable to all related forward-looking statements wherever they appear in this document. Our actual results
could diÅer materially from those discussed in this document. Factors that could cause or contribute to such
diÅerences include those discussed below.
Overview
We pioneered online person-to-person trading by developing a global online trading platform that will
help practically anyone buy or sell practically anything. Our service permits sellers to list items for sale, buyers
to bid on items of interest and all eBay users to browse through listed items in a fully-automated, topically-
arranged, intuitive and easy-to-use online service that is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. We have
extended our online oÅerings to include regional and international trading, autos, ""premium'' priced items, and
through our acquisition of Half.com and our recently introduced ""Buy it Now'' feature, we now oÅer Ñxed-
price functionality. Additionally, Billpoint provides online billing and payment solutions. We also expanded
into the traditional auction business, also called oÉine trading, with our acquisitions of ButterÑelds and Kruse.
Substantially all of our revenues come from fees and commissions associated with online and oÉine
trading services. Online revenue is primarily derived from placement fees, success fees, commissions paid by
sellers, and commissions paid by buyers for ""premium'' priced items. Sellers pay a nominal placement fee, and
by paying additional fees, sellers can have items featured in various ways. Sellers also pay a success fee based
on the Ñnal purchase price. In addition, we receive revenues from end-to-end service providers whose services
increase the velocity of transactions to the site, revenues from commercial alliances designed to build out a
category or other functions and from direct advertising which includes promotional payments from unrelated
third parties. Although we expect these end-to-end, commercial alliance and direct advertising revenues to
increase in the future, they are subject to considerable uncertainty. See ""Risk Factors Ì Our revenue from
end-to-end service providers, commercial alliances and advertising is subject to factors beyond our control.''
To date, online payment solutions provided by Billpoint and Ñxed price trading provided by Half.com have not
made signiÑcant contributions to net revenues, although we expect Billpoint's and Half.com's revenues to
increase in the future. OÉine revenue is derived from a variety of sources including sellers' commissions,
buyers' premiums, bidder registration fees, and auction-related services including appraisal and authentication.
We expect that the online business will continue to represent the majority of revenue growth in the foreseeable
future.
Acquisitions
Half.com
On July 11, 2000, we acquired Half.com. Half.com provides a Ñxed-price, person-to-person e-commerce
site allowing people to buy and sell previously owned goods at discounted prices. In connection with the
merger, we issued, or reserved for issuance, a total of approximately 5,484,000 shares of our common stock to
Half.com's existing shareholders, option holders and warrant holders. The merger has been accounted for as a
pooling-of-interests.
Internet Auction
On February 15, 2001, we acquired a majority interest in Internet Auction Co., Ltd., a South Korean
company(""Internet Auction''). Internet Auction introduced person-to-person trading in Korea when it
24
launched in April 1998. Internet Auction is listed on the KOSDAQ and is expected to continue to trade on
KOSDAQ.
We acquired 6,274,795 of the outstanding shares of Internet Auction, slightly more than 50%, at a Ñxed
price of 24,000 Korean won per share or approximately $120 million in the aggregate. The transaction will be
accounted for using the purchase method of accounting and accordingly, the purchase price will be allocated
to the tangible and intangible assets acquired and the liabilities assumed on the basis of their respective fair
values on the acquisition date.
iBazar S.A.
On February 21, 2001, we signed a binding agreement to acquire iBazar S.A. (iBazar). iBazar is based in
Paris and introduced online, person-to-person trading in France when it launched in October 1998. Currently,
iBazar has websites in Belgium, Brazil, France, Italy, the Netherlands, Portugal, Spain, and Sweden.
As consideration for 100% of the outstanding shares of iBazar, we will issue approximately 2,250,000
shares of our common stock, subject to a minimum valuation of approximately $66 million and a maximum
valuation of approximately $112 million, based on the value of our stock at closing. The acquisition will be
accounted for as a purchase business combination and is subject to various regulatory approvals.
Results of Operations
The following table sets forth, for the periods presented, certain data from our consolidated statements of
income as a percentage of net revenues. The information contained in the table below should be read in
conjunction with the Consolidated Financial Statements and Notes thereto included elsewhere in this report.
Year Ended December 31,
1999
2000
1998
Net revenues ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Cost of net revenues ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Gross proÑt ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
100.0% 100.0% 100.0%
25.6
18.7
74.4
81.3
22.1
77.9
Operating expenses:
Sales and marketing ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Product development ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
General and administrative ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Payroll expense on employee stock options ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Amortization of acquired intangibles ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Merger related costs ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Total operating expenses ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Income/(loss) from operations ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Interest and other income, net ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Interest expenseÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Income before income taxes and minority interest ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Provision for income taxes ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Minority interest in consolidated companies ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Net income ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
41.8
5.4
18.4
Ì
0.9
Ì
66.5
14.8
2.2
(2.5)
14.5
(5.6)
(0.5)
8.4%
42.8
11.1
19.5
Ì
0.5
1.9
75.8
(1.4)
10.6
(1.0)
8.2
(3.8)
(0.1)
4.3%
38.7
12.9
16.9
0.5
0.3
0.4
69.7
8.2
10.7
(0.8)
18.1
(7.6)
0.7
11.2%
It is diÇcult for us to forecast revenues or earnings accurately, and the operating results in one or more
future quarters may fall below the expectations of securities analysts or investors. Although accurate revenue
forecasts are diÇcult, we have begun to recognize the seasonal nature of our business because many of our
users reduce their activities on our website during the Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays and with the onset
of good weather. We have historically experienced our strongest quarter of online growth in our Ñrst Ñscal
quarter, although our shift to more ""practical'' items may cause our seasonal patterns to look more like a
typical retailer. Both ButterÑelds and Kruse have signiÑcant quarter-to-quarter variations in their results of
25
operations depending on the timing of auctions and the availability of high quality items from large collections
and estates. ButterÑelds typically has its best operating results in the traditional fall and spring auction seasons
and has historically incurred operating losses in the Ñrst and third quarters. Kruse typically sees a seasonal
peak in operations in the third quarter. Seasonal or cyclical variations in our business may become more
pronounced over time and may harm our results of operations in the future.
Due to the inherent diÇculty in forecasting net revenues, it is also diÇcult to forecast income statement
expense categories as a percentage of net revenues. Quarterly and annual income statement expense categories
as a percentage of net revenues may be signiÑcantly diÅerent from historical or projected rates. As a general
note, we expect costs to increase in absolute dollars across all income statement categories.
To a large extent, the changes in the consolidated results of operations for the periods presented are due
to the growth of the online business, which will be the primary focus of our year-over-year comparisons.
Net Revenues
We derive revenue from a variety of sources including: listing, success and featured item fees, end-to-end
services, commercial alliances, sponsorships and other advertising. In addition, we derive commissions and
rental income from our traditional oÉine auction operations. Our net revenues increased from $86.1 million to
$224.7 million for the years ended December 31, 1998 and 1999 and further increased to $431.4 million in the
year ended December 31, 2000. The successive year-over-year growth from 1998 through 2000 was
predominantly the result of increased use of our website, reÖected in the growth in the number of registered
users, listings and gross merchandise sales. We expect that future revenue growth will be largely driven by the
growth of online services including end-to-end services, commercial alliance revenues and direct advertising.
The Securities and Exchange Commission issued StaÅ Accounting Bulletin (""SAB'') No. 101,
""Revenue Recognition in Financial Statements.'' As it relates to eBay, SAB 101 requires that listing and
featured item fee revenue be recognized ratably over the estimated period of the auction. We implemented
SAB 101 in the Ñrst quarter of 2000, and the eÅect was insigniÑcant.
Cost of Net Revenues
Cost of net revenues for online operations consists primarily of costs associated with customer support
and site operations. The costs included are compensation, employee and facilities costs for customer support
and site operations personnel, ISP connectivity charges and depreciation on site equipment. Cost of net
revenues in traditional auction operations primarily includes compensation for auction, appraisal, and
customer support personnel and direct auction costs, such as event site rental. Cost of net revenues increased
from $16.1 million or 18.7% of net revenues to $57.6 million or 25.6% of net revenues for the years ended
December 31, 1998 and 1999 and further increased in absolute dollars but decreased as a percentage of sales
to $95.5 million or 22.1% of net revenues in the year ended December 31, 2000. The successive year-over-year
growth from 1998 through 2000 was due almost entirely to our online business, including our international
operations, as well as our acquisition of Billpoint in 1999 and Half.com in 2000. The increase in absolute
dollars in expenditures for the online service resulted from the continued development and expansion of our
customer support and site operations departments, depreciation of the equipment required for site operations,
software licensing fees and ISP connectivity charges. The decrease in cost of net revenues as a percentage of
net revenue from 1999 to 2000 resulted from cost management in customer support and site operations and
increases in higher gross margin businesses such as autos and end-to-end trading solutions. As a result of these
eÇciencies, we expect the cost of net revenues to increase in absolute dollars but decrease as a percentage of
net revenues in 2001.
Sales and Marketing
Our sales and marketing expenses for both the online and traditional auction businesses are comprised
primarily of compensation for our sales and marketing personnel, advertising, tradeshow and other promo-
tional costs, employee and facilities costs. Sales and marketing expenses increased from $36.0 million or 41.8%
of net revenues to $96.2 million or 42.8% of net revenues for the years ended December 31, 1998 and 1999 and
26
further increased in absolute dollars but decreased as a percentage of sales to $166.8 million or 38.7% of net
revenues in the year ended December 31, 2000. The successive year-over-year growth from 1998 through 2000
was primarily the result of growth in online and traditional advertising, including expenses for various
marketing agreements, personnel related costs, costs associated with the use of outside services and
consultants and miscellaneous user and promotional costs.
Online sales and marketing expenses are expected to increase in absolute dollars for 2001 as we plan to
build the eBay brand more broadly. We expect to build our brand further with continued advertising
impressions delivered under the strategic alliances with America Online (""AOL''), Autotrader.com and
GO.com (a wholly owned subsidiary of the Walt Disney Company) an increase in mass media advertising and
the expansion of international advertising. Sales and marketing expenses in the traditional auction businesses
are expected to remain comparable with historical levels.
Product Development
Product development expenses consist primarily of compensation for our product development staÅ,
payments to outside contractors, depreciation on equipment used for development, employee and facilities
costs. Our product development expenses increased from $4.6 million or 5.4% of net revenues to $24.8 million
or 11.1% of net revenues for the years ended December 31, 1998 and 1999 and further increased to
$55.9 million or 12.9 % of net revenues in the year ended December 31, 2000. The successive year over year
growth from 1998 through 2000 was primarily the result of an increase in personnel-related costs as we
signiÑcantly increased the size of our product development staÅ, expenses related to contractors and
consultants employed within product development departments, and maintenance and depreciation for
equipment used in research and development. The year-over-year increase also resulted from the addition of
product development operations at Billpoint in 1999 and Half.com in 2000 including a one-time, stock-based
compensation expense at Half.com resulting from the acquisition. Product development expenses are expected
to increase in absolute dollars during future periods primarily from personnel additions, the continued impact
of Billpoint and Half.com product development, additional depreciation costs as we continue to purchase
equipment to improve and expand operations both domestically and internationally and expected amortization
costs associated with the phased rollout of our next generation three-tier architecture.
General and Administrative
General and administrative expenses consist primarily of compensation for personnel and, to a lesser
extent, fees for external professional advisors, provisions for doubtful accounts, employee and facilities costs.
Our general and administrative expenses increased from $15.8 million or 18.4% of net revenues to
$43.9 million or 19.5% of net revenues for the years ended December 31, 1998 and 1999 and increased in
absolute dollars but decreased as a percentage of sales to $73.0 million or 16.9% of net revenues in the year
ended December 31, 2000. The year-over-year increases resulted from growth in personnel-related expenses in
order to meet the demands of our expanding business, including operations in new countries and the
integration of new businesses, fees for professional services, employee and facilities costs. We expect that
general and administrative expenses will increase in absolute dollars in future periods as we continue to invest
in the infrastructure that is necessary for our business.
Payroll Expense on Employee Stock Options
We are subject to employer payroll taxes on employee exercises of non-qualiÑed stock options. These
employer payroll taxes are recorded as a charge to operations in the period such options are exercised and sold
based on actual gains realized by employees. Our quarterly results of operations and cash Öows could vary
signiÑcantly depending on the actual period that the stock options are exercised by employees and,
consequently, the amount of employer payroll taxes assessed.
27
Amortization of Acquired Intangible Assets
From time to time we have purchased, and expect to continue purchasing, assets or businesses in order to
maintain our leadership role in online trading. These purchases may result in the creation of intangible assets
and lead to a corresponding increase in the amortization in the related periods. Our amortization of acquired
intangible assets increased in absolute dollars from $805,000 or 0.9% of net revenues to $1.1 million or 0.5% of
net revenues for the years ended December 31, 1998 and 1999 and further increased in absolute dollars to
$1.4 million or 0.3% of net revenues in the year ended December 31, 2000. We expect the amortization of
intangible assets to increase in 2001 due to our recent acquisition of Internet Auction in Korea and our
agreement to acquire iBazar S.A. Both acquisitions will be accounted for as purchase business combinations.
Merger-related Costs
In 1999, eBay incurred direct merger related transaction costs of $4.4 million which were primarily
related to the acquisitions of Billpoint, ButterÑelds, Kruse and alando.de.ag. In 2000, eBay incurred direct
merger transaction costs of $1.6 million primarily associated with the acquisition of Half.com. There were no
comparable expenses for the same period in 1998. As opportunities present themselves, eBay may continue to
acquire new companies; such acquisitions could lead to additional direct and indirect expenses which could
negatively aÅect eBay's results of operations.
Interest and Other Income, Net
Interest and other income, net consists of interest earned on cash, cash equivalents, and investments
oÅset by foreign exchange gains or losses. Our interest and other income, net increased from $1.8 million or
2.2% of net revenues to $23.8 million or 10.6% of net revenues for the years ended December 31, 1998 and
1999 and increased to $46.3 million or 10.7% of net revenues in the year ended December 31, 2000. The year-
over-year increases resulted from interest earned on cash, cash equivalents and investments. We expect
interest and other income will continue to exceed interest expense in 2001.
Provision for Income Taxes
Our eÅective federal and state income tax rates were 39.7%, 47.0%, and 40.4% in the years ended
December 31, 1998, 1999 and 2000, respectively. The tax rates in 1998 and 1999 include the eÅects of our
acquisitions. Additionally, we receive tax deductions for gains realized by employees on the exercise of non-
qualiÑed stock options for which the beneÑt is recognized as a component of paid-in capital. We have provided
for a valuation allowance on the deferred tax assets relating to these stock option deductions.
Prior to the acquisition by eBay in 1999, ButterÑelds was taxed as an S Corporation. In connection with
the acquisition, ButterÑelds' status as an S Corporation was terminated, and ButterÑelds became subject to
federal and state income taxes. The supplemental pro forma Ñnancial information presented in the Ñnancial
statements includes an increase to the provisions for income taxes based upon a combined federal and state tax
rate. This rate approximates the statutory tax rate that would have been applied if ButterÑelds were taxed as a
C Corporation prior to the acquisition.
Stock-Based Compensation
In connection with granting certain stock options from May 1997 through May 1999, we recorded
aggregate unearned compensation totaling $13.1 million, which is being amortized over the four-year vesting
period of the options. In connection with certain stock options granted between July 1999 and March 2000 by
companies that we subsequently acquired, we recorded unearned compensation totaling $4.9 million. Of the
total unearned stock compensation, approximately $3.1 million, $4.8 million and $7.1 million was amortized in
1998, 1999 and 2000, respectively. Of the amortization in 2000, approximately $4.8 was related to the
acquisition of Half.com. We expect additional amortization of unearned stock compensation as a result of our
acquisition of Internet Auction and potential acquisition of iBazar S.A.
28
Liquidity and Capital Resources
Since inception, eBay has Ñnanced operations primarily from net cash generated from operating activities.
We obtained additional Ñnancing from the sale of preferred stock and warrants, proceeds from the exercise of
those warrants, proceeds from the exercise of stock options, and proceeds from our initial and follow-on public
oÅerings.
Net cash provided by operating activities was $6.0 million in 1998, $62.9 million in 1999 and
$100.1 million in 2000. Net cash provided by operating activities resulted primarily from our net income
before non-cash charges for depreciation and amortization, and changes in accrued expenses oÅset by changes
in accounts receivable and other assets.
Net cash used in investing activities was $53.0 million in 1998, $603.4 million in 1999, and $206.1 million
in 2000. The primary use for invested cash in the periods presented was purchases of investments, property,
and equipment.
Net cash provided by Ñnancing activities was $72.2 million in 1998, $725.0 million in 1999, and
$86.0 million in 2000. We remained cash Öow positive from Ñnancing activities primarily due to our public
oÅering in 1998 and our subsequent follow-on oÅering in 1999. To a lesser extent, Ñnancing activities included
the sale of common stock under employee beneÑt plans. In 2000, net cash provided by Ñnancing activities
primarily resulted from the issuance of common stock to third parties by our subsidiaries.
We had no material commitments for capital expenditures at December 31, 2000, but expect such
expenditures to approximate $86.0 million during 2001 without taking into account any acquisitions. Of the
$86.0 million, approximately $20.0 million has been committed for capital expenditures relating to hardware
and software for the development of our new architecture. The remaining balance will be used primarily for
computer equipment, furniture and Ñxtures and leasehold improvements. We also have total minimum lease
obligations of $43.9 million under certain noncancellable operating leases and notes payable obligations of
$26.7 million through August 2023. Under our agreement with AOL, we will pay AOL $75 million over the
four-year term of the contract. To date, we have paid $37.5 million on the contract. In February 2000, we
signed an agreement with GO.com. In consideration for this agreement, we will pay a minimum of $30 million
to GO.com over the four-year term. In 2001, Disney announced that it was dissolving GO.com; consequently,
eBay is currently in the process of renegotiating new contract terms with Disney.
We believe that existing cash, cash equivalents and investments, and any cash generated from operations
will be suÇcient to fund our operating activities, capital expenditures and other obligations for the foreseeable
future. However, if during that period or thereafter we are not successful in generating suÇcient cash Öow
from operations or in raising additional capital when required in suÇcient amounts and on terms acceptable to
us, our business could suÅer.
Recent accounting pronouncements
In June 1998, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (""FASB'') issued SFAS No. 133, ""Accounting
for Derivatives and Hedging Activities.'' SFAS No. 133 establishes accounting and reporting standards for
derivative instruments, including certain derivative instruments embedded in other contracts, and for hedging
activities. In June 1999, the FASB issued SFAS No. 137, ""Accounting for Derivative Instruments and
Hedging Activities Ì Deferral of the EÅective Date of FASB Statement No. 133,'' which deferred the
eÅective date until the Ñrst Ñscal year ending on or after June 30, 2000. In June 2000, the FASB issued SFAS
Statement No. 138, ""Accounting for Certain Derivative Instruments and Certain Hedging Activities-an
Amendment of SFAS 133.'' SFAS No. 138 amends certain terms and conditions of SFAS 133. SFAS 133
requires that all derivative instruments be recognized at fair value as either assets or liabilities in the statement
of Ñnancial position. The accounting for changes in the fair value (i.e., gains or losses) of a derivative
instrument depends on whether it has been designated and qualiÑes as part of a hedging relationship and
further, on the type of hedging relationship. We will adopt SFAS No. 133, as amended, in our quarter ending
March 31, 2001. Upon adoption, the cumulative eÅect to net income and other comprehensive income of this
29
change in accounting method is a gain of approximately $650,000 and a loss of approximately $2.6 million,
respectively, net of tax.
In July 2000, the Emerging Issues Task Force (""EITF'') reached a consensus with respect to EITF Issue
No. 99-19, ""Reporting Revenue Gross as a Principal versus Net as an Agent.'' EITF 99-19 addressed whether
a company should report revenue based on the gross amount billed to a customer because it has earned
revenue from the sale of the goods or services or the net amount retained (that is, the amount billed to the
customer less the amount paid to a supplier) because it has earned a commission or fee. We adopted EITF 99-
19, and such adoption did not have a material impact on its consolidated Ñnancial statements.
In March 2000, the EITF reached a consensus on EITF Issue No. 00-14, ""Accounting for Certain Sales
Incentives.'' This consensus provides guidance on the recognition, measurement, and income statement
classiÑcation of sales incentives which are oÅered voluntarily by a vendor without charge to customers that can
be used in, or that are exercisable by a customer as a result of, a single exchange transaction. We evaluated the
provisions of the guidance in conjunction with our policies and concluded that we are in compliance with this
pronouncement.
In July 2000, the EITF issued EITF Issue No. 00-15, ""ClassiÑcation in the Statement of Cash Flows of
the Income Tax BeneÑt Realized by a Company upon Employee Exercise of a Non-qualiÑed Stock Option.''
EITF 00-15 addresses the cash Öow statement presentation of the tax beneÑt associated with the exercise of
nonqualiÑed stock options. We receive an income tax deduction for the diÅerence between the exercise price
and the market price of a nonqualiÑed stock option upon exercise by the employee. EITF 00-15 concludes that
the income tax beneÑt realized by us upon employee exercise should be classiÑed in the operating section of
the cash Öow statement. The EITF is eÅective for all quarters ending after July 20, 2000. We adopted
EITF 00-15, and such adoption did not have a material impact on our consolidated Ñnancial statements.
In July 2000, the EITF issued EITF Issue No. 00-16, ""Recognition and Measurement of Employer
Payroll Taxes on Employee Stock-Based Compensation.'' This Issue addresses how an entity should account
for employer payroll taxes on stock-based compensation under Accounting Principles Board Opinion No. 25,
""Accounting for Stock Issued to Employees,'' and SFAS No. 123, ""Accounting for Stock-Based Compensa-
tion.'' This Issue addresses our timing for recognizing our payroll tax liability and requires that this liability be
recognized when the tax obligation is due and payable. We adopted EITF 00-16 eÅective July 31, 2000. Such
adoption did not have a material impact on our consolidated Ñnancial statements.
Risk Factors that may AÅect Results of Operations and Financial Condition
The risks and uncertainties described below are not the only ones facing eBay. Additional risks and
uncertainties not presently known to us or that we currently deem immaterial also may impair our business
operations. If any of the following risks or such other risks actually occur, our business could be harmed.
We have a limited operating history
Our company was formed as a sole proprietorship in September 1995 and was incorporated in May 1996.
We have only a limited operating history on which you can base an evaluation of our business and prospects.
As an online commerce company still relatively early in our development, we face substantial risks,
uncertainties, expenses and diÇculties. To address these risks and uncertainties, we and our subsidiaries must
do the following:
‚ maintain and increase our number of registered users, items listed on our service and completed sales;
‚ expand into new areas;
‚ maintain and grow our website and customer support operations at a reasonable cost;
‚ continue to make trading through our service safer for users;
‚ maintain and enhance our brand;
‚ continue to develop and upgrade our technology and information processing systems;
30
‚ continue to enhance and expand our service to meet the changing requirements of our users;
‚ provide superior customer service;
‚ remain attractive to our commercial partners;
‚ respond to competitive developments; and
‚ attract, integrate, retain and motivate qualiÑed personnel.
We may be unable to accomplish one or more of these goals, which could cause our business to suÅer. In
addition, accomplishing one or more of these goals might be very expensive, which could harm our Ñnancial
results.
Our operating results may Öuctuate
Our operating results have varied on a quarterly basis during our operating history. Our operating results
may Öuctuate signiÑcantly as a result of a variety of factors, many of which are outside our control. Factors
that may aÅect our quarterly operating results include the following:
‚ our ability to retain an active user base, to attract new users who list items for sale and who purchase
items through our service and to maintain customer satisfaction;
‚ our ability to keep our website operational and to manage the number of items listed on our service;
‚ the amount and timing of operating costs and capital expenditures relating to the maintenance and
expansion of our business, operations and infrastructure;
‚ foreign, federal, state or local government regulation, including investigations prompted by items
improperly listed or sold by our users;
‚ the introduction of new sites, services and products by us or our competitors;
‚ volume, size, timing and completion rate of trades on our websites;
‚ consumer conÑdence in the security of transactions on our websites;
‚ our ability to upgrade and develop our systems and infrastructure to accommodate growth;
‚ technical diÇculties or service interruptions;
‚ our ability to attract new personnel in a timely and eÅective manner;
‚ our ability to retain key employees in both our online businesses and our acquisitions;
‚ our ability to successfully integrate and manage our acquisitions;
‚ our ability to successfully expand our product oÅerings involving Ñxed price trading;
‚ the ability of our land-based auction businesses to acquire high quality properties for auction;
‚ the timing, cost and availability of advertising in traditional media and on other websites and online
services;
‚ the timing of payments to us and of marketing and other expenses under existing and future contracts;
‚ consumer trends and popularity of some categories of collectible items;
‚ the success of our brand building and marketing campaigns;
‚ the level of use of the Internet and online services;
‚ increasing consumer acceptance of the Internet and other online services for commerce and, in
particular, the trading of products such as those listed on our websites; and
31
‚ general economic conditions and economic conditions speciÑc to the Internet and e-commerce
industries.
Our limited operating history and growing competition make it diÇcult for us to forecast the level or
source of our revenues or earnings accurately. We believe that period-to-period comparisons of our operating
results may not be meaningful, and you should not rely upon them as an indication of future performance. We
do not have backlog, and almost all of our net revenues each quarter come from transactions for items that are
listed and sold during that quarter. Our operating results in one or more future quarters may fall below the
expectations of securities analysts and investors. In that event, the trading price of our common stock would
almost certainly decline.
Our failure to manage growth could harm us
We currently are experiencing a period of expansion in our headcount, facilities and infrastructure, and
we anticipate that further expansion will be required to address potential growth in our customer base and
number of listings as well as our expansion into new geographic areas, types of goods and alternative methods
of sale. This expansion has placed, and we expect it will continue to place, a signiÑcant strain on our
management, operational and Ñnancial resources. The areas that are put under strain by our growth include
the following:
‚ The Websites. We must constantly add new hardware, update software and add new engineering
personnel to accommodate the increased use of our and our subsidiaries' websites and the new products
and features we are regularly introducing. This is expensive and the increased complexity of our
websites increases the cost of additional enhancements. If we are unable to increase the capacity of our
systems at least as fast as the growth in demand for this capacity, our websites may become unstable
and may cease to operate for periods of time. We have experienced periodic unscheduled downtime.
Continued unscheduled downtime would harm our business and also could anger users of our website
and reduce future revenues.
‚ Customer Support. We are expanding our customer support operations to accommodate the increased
number of users and transactions on our websites. If we are unable to hire and successfully train
suÇcient employees or contractors in this area in a cost eÅective manner, users of our websites may
have negative experiences, and current and future revenues could suÅer or our margins may decrease.
‚ Customer Accounts. Our revenues are dependent on prompt and accurate billing processes. If we are
unable to grow our transaction processing abilities to accommodate the increasing number of
transactions that must be billed, our ability to collect revenue will be harmed.
We must continue to hire, train and manage new employees at a rapid rate. The majority of our
employees today have been with us less than one year and we expect that our rate of hiring will continue at a
very high pace. If our new hires perform poorly, or if we are unsuccessful in hiring, training and integrating
these new employees, or if we are not successful in retaining our existing employees, our business may be
harmed. To manage the expected growth of our operations and personnel, we will need to improve our
transaction processing, operational and Ñnancial systems, procedures and controls. This is a special challenge
when we acquire new operations with diÅerent systems. Our current and planned personnel, systems,
procedures and controls may not be adequate to support our future operations. We may be unable to hire,
train, retain and manage required personnel or to identify and take advantage of existing and potential strategic
relationships and market opportunities.
We may not maintain proÑtability
We believe that our continued proÑtability will depend in large part on our ability to do the following:
‚ maintain suÇcient transaction volume to attract buyers and sellers;
‚ manage the costs of our business, including the costs associated with maintaining and developing our
websites, customer support and international and product expansion;
32
‚ increase our brand name awareness; and
‚ provide our customers with superior community and trading experiences.
We are investing heavily in marketing and promotion, customer support, further development of our
websites, technology and operating infrastructure development. The costs of these investments are expected to
remain signiÑcant into the future. In addition, we have signiÑcant ongoing commitments in some of these
areas. As a result, we may be unable to adjust our spending rapidly enough to compensate for any unexpected
revenue shortfall, which may harm our proÑtability. The existence of several larger and more established
companies that are enabling online sales as well as new companies, many of whom do not charge for
transactions on their sites and others who are facilitating trading through other pricing formats (e.g. Ñxed
price, reverse auction, group buying, etc.) may limit our ability to raise user fees in response to declines in
proÑtability. In addition, we are spending in advance of anticipated growth, which may also harm our
proÑtability. In view of the rapidly evolving nature of our business and our limited operating history, we believe
that period-to-period comparisons of our operating results are not necessarily meaningful. You should not rely
upon our historical results as indications of our future performance.
Acquisitions could result in dilution, operating diÇculties and other harmful consequences
We have acquired a number of businesses, including our recently completed acquisitions of Half.com and
Internet Auction Company Ltd. in Korea and our announced acquisition of iBazar S.A., and may in the future
acquire businesses, technologies, services or products that we believe are strategic. The process of integrating
any acquisition may create unforeseen operating diÇculties and expenditures and is itself risky. The areas
where we may face diÇculties include:
‚ diversion of management time (at both companies) during the period of negotiation through closing
and further diversion of such time after closing from focus on operating the businesses to issues of
integration and future products;
‚ decline in employee morale and retention issues resulting from changes in compensation, reporting
relationships, future prospects or the direction of the business;
‚ the need to integrate each company's accounting, management information, human resource and other
administrative systems to permit eÅective management, and the lack of control if such integration is
delayed or not implemented; and
‚ the need to implement controls, procedures and policies appropriate for a larger public company at
companies that prior to acquisition had been smaller, private companies.
Prior to the four large acquisitions we made in 1999, we had almost no experience in managing this
integration process. Many of our acquisitions to date have involved either family-run companies or very early
stage companies, which may worsen these integration issues. Foreign acquisitions involve special risks
including those related to integration of operations across diÅerent cultures, currency risks and the particular
economic and political risks associated with speciÑc countries. Moreover, the anticipated beneÑts of any or all
of our acquisitions may not be realized. Future acquisitions or mergers could result in potentially dilutive
issuances of equity securities, the incurrence of debt, contingent liabilities or amortization expenses related to
goodwill and other intangible assets, any of which could harm our business. Future acquisitions or mergers
may require us to obtain additional equity or debt Ñnancing, which may not be available on favorable terms or
at all. Even if available, this Ñnancing may be dilutive.
The inability to expand our systems may limit our growth
We seek to generate a high volume of traÇc and transactions on our service. The satisfactory
performance, reliability and availability of our websites, processing systems and network infrastructure are
critical to our reputation and our ability to attract and retain large numbers of users. Our revenues depend
primarily on the number of items listed by users, the volume of user transactions that are successfully
completed and the Ñnal prices paid for the items listed. We need to expand and upgrade our technology,
33
transaction processing systems and network infrastructure both to meet increased traÇc on our site and to
implement new features and functions, including those required under our contracts with third parties. We
may be unable to accurately project the rate or timing of increases, if any, in the use of our service or to
expand and upgrade our systems and infrastructure to accommodate any increases in a timely fashion.
We use internally developed systems to operate our service for transaction processing, including billing
and collections processing. We must continually improve these systems in order to accommodate the level of
use of our website. In addition, we may add new features and functionality to our services that would result in
the need to develop or license additional technologies. We capitalize hardware and software costs associated
with this development in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles and include such amounts
in property and equipment. Our inability to add additional software and hardware or to upgrade our
technology, transaction processing systems or network infrastructure to accommodate increased traÇc or
transaction volume could have adverse consequences. These consequences include unanticipated system
disruptions, slower response times, degradation in levels of customer support, impaired quality of the users'
experience of our service and delays in reporting accurate Ñnancial information. Our failure to provide new
features or functionality also could result in these consequences. We may be unable to eÅectively upgrade and
expand our systems in a timely manner or to integrate smoothly any newly developed or purchased
technologies with our existing systems. These diÇculties could harm or limit our ability to expand our
business.
Unauthorized break-ins or other assaults on our service could harm our business
Our servers are vulnerable to computer viruses, physical or electronic break-ins and similar disruptions,
which could lead to interruptions, delays, loss of data, public release of conÑdential data or the inability to
complete customer transactions. In addition, unauthorized persons may improperly access our data. We have
experienced an unauthorized break-in by a ""hacker'' who has stated that he can in the future damage or
change our system or take conÑdential information. We have also experienced ""denial of service'' type attacks
on our system that have made all or portions of our website unavailable for periods of time. These and other
types of attacks could harm us. Actions of this sort may be very expensive to remedy and could damage our
reputation and discourage new and existing users from using our service.
There are many risks associated with our international operations
We are expanding internationally. In 1999, we acquired alando.de.ag, a leading online German personal
trading platform, and began operations in the United Kingdom and, through a joint venture, in Australia. In
the Ñrst quarter of 2000, we further expanded into Japan and formally launched our localized Canadian
operations. In October 2000, we launched our French site. In January 2001, we launched our Italian site. In
February 2001, we completed our acquisition of a majority interest in Internet Auction Company, Ltd. and
announced our intended acquisition of iBazar S.A., a French company with online trading operations in eight
countries, primarily in Europe. Expansion into international markets requires management attention and
resources. We have limited experience in localizing our service to conform to local cultures, standards and
policies. In most countries, we will have to compete with local companies who understand the local market
better than we do. We may not be successful in expanding into international markets or in generating revenues
from foreign operations. Even if we are successful, the costs of operating are expected to exceed our net
revenues for at least 12 months in most countries. As we continue to expand internationally, we are subject to
risks of doing business internationally, including the following:
‚ regulatory requirements, including regulation of ""auctions,'' that may limit or prevent the oÅering of
our services in local jurisdictions, may prevent enforceable agreements between sellers and buyers or
may prohibit certain categories of goods;
‚ legal uncertainty regarding liability for the listings of our users, including less Internet-friendly legal
systems, unique local laws and lack of clear precedent or applicable law;
‚ government-imposed limitations on the public's access to the Internet;
34
‚ diÇculties in staÇng and managing foreign operations;
‚ longer payment cycles, diÅerent accounting practices and problems in collecting accounts receivable;
‚ higher telecommunications and Internet service provider costs;
‚ more stringent consumer protection laws;
‚ cultural non-acceptance of online trading;
‚ stronger local competitors;
‚ seasonal reductions in business activity; and
‚ potentially adverse tax consequences.
Some of these factors may cause our international costs to exceed our domestic costs of doing business.
To the extent we expand our international operations and have additional portions of our international
revenues denominated in foreign currencies, we also could become subject to increased diÇculties in
collecting accounts receivable and risks relating to foreign currency exchange rate Öuctuations.
Our revenue from end-to-end service providers, commercial partners and advertising is subject to factors
beyond our control
We are receiving revenues from end-to-end service providers, commercial partnerships and direct
advertising promotions. These revenues may be aÅected by the Ñnancial condition of the parties with whom
we have these relationships and by the success of online promotions generally. The proÑtability of online
advertisements has deteriorated markedly recently. Our direct advertising revenue is dependent in signiÑcant
part on the performance of AOL's sales force, which we do not control. Reduction in these revenues, whether
due to the softening of the demand for online advertising in general or particular problems facing parties with
whom we have commercial relationships, could adversely aÅect our results.
Our business may be harmed by the listing or sale by our users of illegal items
The law relating to the liability of providers of online services for the activities of their users on their
service is currently unsettled. We are aware that certain goods, such as Ñrearms, other weapons, adult
material, tobacco products, alcohol and other goods that may be subject to regulation by local, state or federal
authorities, have been listed and traded on our service. We may be unable to prevent the sale of unlawful
goods, or the sale of goods in an unlawful manner, by users of our service, and we may be subject to allegations
of civil or criminal liability for unlawful activities carried out by users through our service. We have been
subject to several lawsuits based upon such allegations. See ""Ì We are subject to intellectual property and
other litigation'' and ""Legal Proceedings.'' In order to reduce our exposure to this liability, we have prohibited
the listing of certain items and increased the number of personnel reviewing questionable items. We may in
the future implement other protective measures that could require us to spend substantial resources and/or to
reduce revenues by discontinuing certain service oÅerings. Any costs incurred as a result of liability or asserted
liability relating to the sale of unlawful goods or the unlawful sale of goods, could harm our business. In
addition, we have received signiÑcant and continuing media attention relating to the listing or sale of unlawful
goods on our website. This negative publicity could damage our reputation and diminish the value of our brand
name. It also could make users reluctant to continue to use our services.
Our business may be harmed by the listing or sale by our users of pirated items
We have received in the past, and we anticipate we will receive in the future, communications alleging
that certain items listed or sold through our service by our users infringe third-party copyrights, trademarks
and tradenames or other intellectual property rights. Although we have actively sought to work with the
content community to eliminate infringing listings on our website, some content owners have expressed the
view that our eÅorts are insuÇcient. Content owners have been active in defending their rights against online
companies, including eBay. An allegation of infringement of third-party intellectual property rights may result
35
in litigation against us. Any such litigation could be costly for us, could result in increased costs of doing
business through adverse judgment or settlement, could require us to change our business practices in
expensive ways, or could otherwise harm our business. Litigation against other online companies could result
in interpretations of the law that could also require us to change our business practices or otherwise increase
our costs. See ""Legal Proceedings'' and ""Risk Factors Ì We are subject to intellectual property and other
litigation.''
Our business may be harmed by fraudulent activities on our website
Our future success will depend largely upon sellers reliably delivering and accurately representing their
listed goods and buyers paying the agreed purchase price. We have received in the past, and anticipate that we
will receive in the future, communications from users who did not receive the purchase price or the goods that
were to have been exchanged. In some cases individuals have been arrested and convicted for fraudulent
activities using our website. While we can suspend the accounts of users who fail to fulÑll their delivery
obligations to other users, we do not have the ability to require users to make payments or deliver goods or
otherwise make users whole other than through our limited insurance program. Other than through this
program, we do not compensate users who believe they have been defrauded by other users. We also
periodically receive complaints from buyers as to the quality of the goods purchased. Negative publicity
generated as a result of fraudulent or deceptive conduct by users of our service could damage our reputation
and diminish the value of our brand name. We expect to continue to receive requests from users requesting
reimbursement or threatening or commencing legal action against us if no reimbursement is made. This sort of
litigation could be costly for us, divert management attention, result in increased costs of doing business, lead
to adverse judgments or could otherwise harm our business.
Government inquiries may lead to charges or penalties
On January 29, 1999, we received initial requests to produce certain records and information to the
federal government relating to an investigation of possible illegal transactions in connection with our website.
We were informed that the inquiry includes an examination of our practices with respect to these transactions.
We have provided further information in connection with this ongoing inquiry. In order to protect the
investigation, the court has ordered that no further public disclosures be made with respect to the matter.
On March 24, 2000, ButterÑelds received a grand jury subpoena from the Antitrust Division of the
Department of Justice requesting documents relating to, among other things, changes in ButterÑelds' seller
commissions and buyer premiums and discussions, agreements or understandings with other auction houses, in
each case since 1992. We believe this request may be related to a publicly reported criminal investigation of
auction houses for price Ñxing. We have provided the information requested in the subpoena.
Should these or any other investigations lead to civil or criminal charges against us, we would likely be
harmed by negative publicity, the costs of litigation, the diversion of management time and other negative
eÅects, even if we ultimately prevail. Our business would suÅer if we were not to prevail in any actions like
these. Even the process of providing records and information can be expensive, time consuming and result in
the diversion of management attention.
A large number of transactions occur on our website. We believe that government regulators have
received a substantial number of consumer complaints about us which, while small as a percentage of our total
transactions, are large in aggregate numbers. As a result, we have from time to time been contacted by various
federal, state and local regulatory agencies and been told that they have questions with respect to the adequacy
of the steps we take to protect our users from fraud. We are likely to receive additional inquiries from
regulatory agencies in the future, which may lead to action against us. We have responded to all inquiries from
regulatory agencies by describing our current and planned antifraud eÅorts. If one or more of these agencies is
not satisÑed with our response to current or future inquiries, the resultant investigations and potential Ñnes or
other penalties could harm our business.
We have provided information to the antitrust division of the Department of Justice in connection with an
inquiry into our conduct with respect to ""auction aggregators'' including our licensing program and our
36
recently settled lawsuit against Bidder's Edge. Should the division decide to take action against us, we would
likely be harmed by negative publicity, the costs of the action, possible private antitrust lawsuits, the diversion
of management time and eÅort and penalties we might suÅer if we ultimately were not to prevail.
Some of our businesses are subject to regulation and others may be in the future
Both ButterÑelds and Kruse are subject to regulation in some jurisdictions governing the manner in which
live auctions are conducted. Both are required to obtain licenses in these jurisdictions with respect to their
business or to permit the sale of categories of items (e.g. wine, automobiles and real estate). These licenses
generally must be renewed regularly and are subject to revocation for violation of law, violation of the
regulations governing auctions in general or the sale of the particular item and other events. If either company
was unable to renew a license or had a license revoked, its business would be harmed. In addition, changes to
the regulations or the licensure requirements could increase the complexity and the cost of doing auctions,
thereby harming us.
As our activities and the types of goods listed on our site expand, state regulatory agencies may claim that
we are subject to licensure in their jurisdiction. These claims could result in costly litigation or could require us
to change our manner of doing business in ways that increase our costs or reduce our revenues or force us to
prohibit listings of certain items. We could also be subject to Ñnes or other penalties. Any of these outcomes
could harm our business.
As we have expanded internationally, we have become subject to new regulations, including regulations
on the transmission of personal information. These laws may require costly changes to our business practices.
If we are found to have violated any of these laws, we could be subject to Ñnes or penalties, and our business
could be harmed.
Companies that handle payments, including our subsidiaries Billpoint and Half.com may be subject to
additional regulation
The Half.com business model involves the handling of payments by buyers for the items listed by
Half.com's sellers. Internet Auction Company, Ltd. also has a business model involving the handling of
payments by buyers. Billpoint handles its customer funds as a provider of Internet payment solutions.
Businesses that handle consumers' funds are subject to numerous regulations, including those related to
banking, credit cards, escrow, fair credit reporting and others. Billpoint is a new business with a relatively novel
approach to facilitating payments. It is not yet known how regulatory agencies will treat Billpoint. The cost
and complexity of Billpoint's business may increase if certain regulations are deemed to apply to its business.
In addition to the need to comply with these regulations, Billpoint's business is also subject to risks of fraud,
the need to grow systems and processes rapidly if its products are well received, a high level of competition,
including larger and better Ñnanced competitors and the need to coordinate systems and policies among itself,
us and Wells Fargo Bank, which is the provider of payment services. Similarly, Half.com may be subject to
certain regulations regarding payments and the cost and complexity of its business may increase if these
regulations are deemed to apply to its business.
We are subject to risks associated with information disseminated through our service
The law relating to the liability of online services companies for information carried on or disseminated
through their services is currently unsettled. Claims could be made against online services companies under
both United States and foreign law for defamation, libel, invasion of privacy, negligence, copyright or
trademark infringement, or other theories based on the nature and content of the materials disseminated
through their services. Several private lawsuits seeking to impose liability upon us have brought against us. In
addition, federal, state and foreign legislation has been proposed that imposes liability for or prohibits the
transmission over the Internet of certain types of information. Our service features a Feedback Forum, which
includes information from users regarding other users. Although all such feedback is generated by users and
not by us, it is possible that a claim of defamation or other injury could be made against us for content posted
in the Feedback Forum. Claims like these become more likely and have a higher probability of success in
37
jurisdictions outside the U.S. If we become liable for information provided by our users and carried on our
service in any jurisdiction in which we operate, we could be directly harmed and we may be forced to
implement new measures to reduce our exposure to this liability. This may require us to expend substantial
resources and/or to discontinue certain service oÅerings, which would negatively aÅect our Ñnancial results. In
addition, the increased attention focused upon liability issues as a result of these lawsuits and legislative
proposals could harm our reputation or otherwise impact the growth of our business. Any costs incurred as a
result of this liability or asserted liability could harm our business.
We are subject to intellectual property and other litigation
On September 1, 1999, we were served with a lawsuit Ñled by Randall Stoner, on behalf of the general
public, in San Francisco Superior Court (No. 305666). The lawsuit alleged that we violated Section 17200 of
the California Business & Professions Code, a statute that relates to unfair competition, based upon the listing
of ""bootleg'' or ""pirate'' recordings by eBay's users, allegedly in violation of California penal statutes relating
to the sale of unauthorized audio recordings. The lawsuit sought declaratory and injunctive relief, restitution
and legal fees. We Ñled a general demurrer which was sustained by the court with leave to amend. The
plaintiÅ subsequently Ñled an amended complaint. We Ñled a motion for summary judgement. On Novem-
ber 7, 2000, our motion for summary judgement was granted.
On December 10, 1999, we sued Bidder's Edge, Inc. in the United States District Court for the Northern
District of California alleging trespass, unfair competition, violation of the computer fraud and abuse act,
misappropriation, false advertising, trademark dilution, injury to business reputation, interference with
prospective economic advantage, and unjust enrichment. On February 7, 2000, Bidder's Edge denied these
claims and counterclaimed against us alleging that we violated the antitrust laws by monopolizing or
attempting to monopolize a market, that we competed unfairly, and that we interfered with their contract with
eBay magazine. Bidder's Edge sought treble damages, an injunction and its fees and costs. On May 24, 2000,
the court granted us a preliminary injunction against the use by Bidder's Edge of robotic means to copy our
site. In February 2001, the parties settled this lawsuit. All claims by both parties were dismissed, and Bidder's
Edge paid us an undisclosed amount.
On April 25, 2000, we were served with a lawsuit, Gentry et.al. v. eBay, Inc. et.al, Ñled in Superior Court
in San Diego, California. The lawsuit was Ñled on behalf of a purported class of eBay users who purchased
allegedly forged autographed sports memorabilia on eBay. The lawsuit claims we were negligent in permitting
certain named (and other unnamed) defendants to sell allegedly forged autographed sports memorabilia on
eBay. In addition, the lawsuit claims we violated Section 17200 and a section of the California Civil Code
which prohibits ""dealers'' from selling sports memorabilia without a ""CertiÑcate of Authenticity.'' On
January 26, 2001, the Court issued a ruling dismissing all claims against us in the lawsuit. The Court ruled
that our business falls within the safe harbor provisions of 47 USC 230, which grants internet service providers
such as eBay with immunity from state claims based on the conduct of third parties. The Court also noted that
we were not a ""dealer'' under California law and thus not required to provide certiÑcates of authenticity with
autographs sold over our site by third parties. All counts of the plaintiÅs' suit were dismissed with prejudice as
to eBay. PlaintiÅs have Ñled an appeal of this ruling. We believe we have meritorious defenses and intend to
defend ourselves vigorously.
Other third parties have from time to time claimed and may claim in the future that we have infringed
their past, current or future intellectual property rights. We may become more vulnerable to such claims as
laws such as the Digital Millennium Copyright Act are interpreted by the courts. We expect that we will
increasingly be subject to infringement claims as the number of services and competitors in our segment grow.
These claims whether meritorious or not, could be time-consuming, result in costly litigation, cause service
upgrade delays require expensive changes in our methods of doing business or could require us to enter into
costly royalty or licensing agreements, if available. As a result, these claims could harm our business.
From time to time, we are involved in disputes that have arisen in the ordinary course of business.
Management believes that the ultimate resolution of these disputes will not have a material adverse impact on
our Ñnancial position or results of operations.
38
System failures could harm our business
We have experienced system failures from time to time. Our website has been interrupted for periods of
up to 22 hours. In addition to placing increased burdens on our engineering staÅ, these outages create a Öood
of user questions and complaints that need to be addressed by our customer support personnel. Any
unscheduled interruption in our service results in an immediate loss of revenues that can be substantial and
may cause some users to switch to our competitors. If we experience frequent or persistent system failures, our
reputation and brand could be permanently harmed. We have been taking steps to increase the reliability and
redundancy of our system. These steps are expensive, reduce our margins and may not be successful in
reducing the frequency or duration of unscheduled downtime.
Substantially all of our computer hardware for operating our services (other than Half.com) currently is
located at the facilities of Exodus Communications, Inc. in Santa Clara, California and AboveNet
Communications in San Jose, California. The computer hardware for the Half.com service is located in the
facilities of Level 3 Communications in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. These systems and operations are
vulnerable to damage or interruption from earthquakes, Öoods, Ñres, power loss, telecommunication failures
and similar events. They are also subject to break-ins, sabotage, intentional acts of vandalism and similar
misconduct. We do not maintain fully redundant systems or alternative providers of hosting services, and we
do not carry business interruption insurance suÇcient to compensate us for losses that may occur. Despite any
precautions we may take, the occurrence of a natural disaster or other unanticipated problems at any of the
Exodus, AboveNet or Level 3 facilities could result in interruptions in our services. In addition, the failure by
Exodus, AboveNet or Level 3 to provide our required data communications capacity could result in
interruptions in our service. Any damage to or failure of our systems could result in interruptions in our
service. Interruptions in our service will reduce our revenues and proÑts, and our future revenues and proÑts
will be harmed if our users believe that our system is unreliable.
Risks Relating to Possible California Power Outages
The State of California is currently experiencing a chronic shortage of power and, as a result, power
outages may occur. Although we have emergency backup power capabilities at the facilities of Exodus,
AboveNet, Level 3 Communications and limited backup power at our headquarters, repeated or lengthy
power outages may adversely aÅect our business.
Our stock price has been and may continue to be extremely volatile
The trading price of our common stock has been and is likely to be extremely volatile. Our stock price
could be subject to wide Öuctuations in response to a variety of factors, including the following:
‚ actual or anticipated variations in our quarterly operating results;
‚ unscheduled system downtime;
‚ additions or departures of key personnel;
‚ announcements of technological innovations or new services by us or our competitors;
‚ changes in Ñnancial estimates by securities analysts;
‚ conditions or trends in the Internet and online commerce industries;
‚ changes in the market valuations of other Internet companies;
‚ developments in Internet regulation;
‚ announcements by us or our competitors of signiÑcant acquisitions, strategic partnerships, joint
ventures or capital commitments;
‚ sales of our common stock or other securities in the open market; and
‚ other events or factors that may be beyond our control.
39
In addition, the trading price of Internet stocks in general, and ours in particular, have experienced
extreme price and volume Öuctuations in recent periods. These Öuctuations often have been unrelated or
disproportionate to the operating performance of these companies. The valuations of many Internet stocks,
including ours, are extraordinarily high based on conventional valuation standards such as price-to-earnings
and price-to-sales ratios. The trading price of our common stock has increased enormously from the initial
public oÅering price. These trading prices and valuations may not be sustained. Any negative change in the
public's perception of the prospects of Internet or e-commerce companies could depress our stock price
regardless of our results. Other broad market and industry factors may decrease the market price of our
common stock, regardless of our operating performance. Market Öuctuations, as well as general political and
economic conditions, such as recession or interest rate or currency rate Öuctuations, also may decrease the
market price of our common stock. In the past, following declines in the market price of a company's
securities, securities class-action litigation often has been instituted. Litigation of this type, if instituted, could
result in substantial costs and a diversion of management's attention and resources.
New and existing regulations could harm our business
We are subject to the same federal, state and local laws as other companies conducting business on the
Internet. Today there are relatively few laws speciÑcally directed towards online services. However, due to the
increasing popularity and use of the Internet and online services, many laws relating to the Internet are being
debated at the state and federal levels (both in the U.S. and abroad) and it is possible that laws and
regulations will be adopted with respect to the Internet or online services. These laws and regulations could
cover issues such as user privacy, freedom of expression, pricing, fraud, content and quality of products and
services, taxation, advertising, intellectual property rights and information security. Applicability to the
Internet of existing laws governing issues such as property ownership, copyrights and other intellectual
property issues, taxation, libel, obscenity and personal privacy is uncertain. The vast majority of these laws
were adopted prior to the advent of the Internet and related technologies and, as a result, do not contemplate
or address the unique issues of the Internet and related technologies. Those laws that do reference the
Internet, such as the Digital Millennium Copyright Act, are only beginning to be interpreted by the courts and
their applicability and reach are therefore uncertain. In addition, numerous states, including the State of
California, where our headquarters are located, have regulations regarding how ""auctions'' may be conducted
and the liability of ""auctioneers'' in conducting such auctions. No Ñnal legal determination has been made
with respect to the applicability of the California regulations to our business to date and little precedent exists
in this area. Several states are considering imposing these regulations upon us or our users, which could harm
our business. In addition, as the nature of the products listed by our users change, we may become subject to
new regulatory restrictions.
Several states have proposed legislation that would limit the uses of personal user information gathered
online or require online services to establish privacy policies. The Federal Trade Commission also has settled
several proceedings regarding the manner in which personal information is collected from users and provided
to third parties. Changes to existing laws or the passage of new laws intended to address these issues could
directly aÅect the way we do business or could create uncertainty on the Internet. This could reduce demand
for our services, increase the cost of doing business as a result of litigation costs or increased service delivery
costs, or otherwise harm our business. In addition, because our services are accessible worldwide, and we
facilitate sales of goods to users worldwide, foreign jurisdictions may claim that we are required to comply with
their laws. For example, a French court has recently ruled that a U.S. website must comply with French laws
regarding content. As we have expanded our international activities, we have become obligated to comply with
the laws of the countries in which we operate. Laws regulating Internet companies outside of the United
States may be less favorable then those in the United States, giving greater rights to consumers, content
owners and users. Compliance may be more costly or may require us to change our business practices or
restrict our service oÅerings relative to those in the United States. Our failure to comply with foreign laws
could subject us to penalties ranging from Ñnes to bans on our ability to oÅer our services.
40
Our business has been seasonal
Our results of operations historically have been somewhat seasonal in nature because many of our users
reduce their activities on our website during the Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays and with the onset of
good weather. We have historically experienced our strongest quarter of online growth in our Ñrst Ñscal
quarter, although our shift to more ""practical'' items may cause our seasonal patterns to look more like a
typical retailer. Both ButterÑelds and Kruse have signiÑcant quarter-to-quarter variations in their results of
operations depending on the timing of auctions and the availability of high quality items from large collections
and estates. ButterÑelds typically has its best operating results in the traditional fall and spring auction seasons
and has historically incurred operating losses in the Ñrst and third quarters. Kruse typically sees a seasonal
peak in operations in the third quarter. Seasonal or cyclical variations in our business may become more
pronounced over time and may harm our results of operations in the future.
We are dependent on the continued growth of online commerce
The business of selling goods over the Internet, particularly through personal trading, is new and dynamic.
Our future net revenues and proÑts will be substantially dependent upon the widespread acceptance of the
Internet and online services as a medium for commerce by consumers. Rapid growth in the use of and interest
in the Internet and online services is a recent phenomenon. This acceptance and use may not continue. Even if
the Internet is accepted, concerns about fraud, privacy and other problems may mean that a suÇciently broad
base of consumers will not adopt the Internet as a medium of commerce. In particular, our website requires
users to make publicly available their e-mail addresses and other personal information that some potential
users may be unwilling to provide. These concerns may increase as additional publicity over privacy issues on
eBay or generally over the Internet increase. Market acceptance for recently introduced services and products
over the Internet is highly uncertain, and there are few proven services and products. In order to expand our
user base, we must appeal to and acquire consumers who historically have used traditional means of
commerce to purchase goods. If these consumers prove to be less active than our earlier users, and we are
unable to gain eÇciencies in our operating costs, including our cost of acquiring new customers, our business
could be adversely impacted.
Our business may be subject to sales and other taxes
We do not collect sales or other similar taxes on goods sold by users through our service. One or more
states may seek to impose sales tax collection obligations on companies such as ours that engage in or facilitate
online commerce. Several proposals have been made at the state and local level that would impose additional
taxes on the sale of goods and services through the Internet. These proposals, if adopted, could substantially
impair the growth of e-commerce, and could diminish our opportunity to derive Ñnancial beneÑt from our
activities. In 1998, the U.S. federal government enacted legislation prohibiting states or other local authorities
from imposing new taxes on Internet commerce for a period of three years. This tax moratorium will last only
for a limited period and does not prohibit states or the Internal Revenue Service from collecting taxes on our
income, if any, or from collecting taxes that are due under existing tax rules. A successful assertion by one or
more states or any foreign country that we should collect sales or other taxes on the exchange of merchandise
on our system would harm our business.
We are dependent on key personnel
Our future performance will be substantially dependent on the continued services of our senior
management and other key personnel. Our future performance also will depend on our ability to retain and
motivate our other oÇcers and key personnel. The loss of the services of any of our executive oÇcers or other
key employees could harm our business. We do not have long-term employment agreements with any of our
key personnel, and we do not maintain any ""key person'' life insurance policies. Our new businesses are all
dependent on attracting and retaining key personnel. The land-based auction businesses are particularly
dependent on specialists and senior management because of the relationships these individuals have
established with sellers who consign property for sale at auction. We have had some turnover of these
personnel, and continued losses could result in the loss of signiÑcant future business and would harm us. In
41
addition, employee turnover frequently increases during the period following an acquisition as employees
evaluate possible changes in compensation, culture, reporting relationships, and the direction of the business.
Such increased turnover could increase our costs and reduce our future revenues. Our future success also will
depend on our ability to attract, train, retain and motivate highly skilled technical, managerial, marketing and
customer support personnel. Competition for these personnel is intense, especially for engineers and other
professionals, especially in the San Francisco Bay Area, and we may be unable to successfully attract,
integrate or retain suÇciently qualiÑed personnel. In making employment decisions, particularly in the
Internet and high-technology industries, job candidates often consider the value of the stock options they are
to receive in connection with their employment. Fluctuations in our stock price may make it more diÇcult to
retain and motivate employees whose stock option strike prices are substantially above current market prices.
Our oÉine auction businesses need to continue to acquire auction properties
The businesses of ButterÑelds and Kruse are dependent on the continued acquisition of high quality
auction properties from sellers. Their future success will depend in part on their ability to maintain an
adequate supply of high quality auction property, particularly Ñne and decorative arts and collectibles and
collectible automobiles, respectively. There is intense competition for these pieces with other auction
companies and dealers. In addition, a small number of key senior management and specialists maintain the
relationships with the primary sources of auction property and the loss of any of these individuals could harm
the business of ButterÑelds and Kruse.
Our oÉine auction businesses could suÅer losses from price guarantees, advances or rescissions of sales
In order to secure high quality auction properties from sellers, ButterÑelds and Kruse may give a
guaranteed minimum price or a cash advance to a seller, based on the estimated value of the property. If the
auction proceeds are less than the amount guaranteed, or less than the amount advanced and the seller does
not repay the diÅerence, the company involved will suÅer a loss. In addition, under certain circumstances a
buyer who believes that an item purchased at auction does not have good title, provenance or authenticity may
rescind the purchase. Under these circumstances, the company involved will lose its commissions and fees on
the sale even if the seller, in accordance with the terms and conditions of sale, in turn accepts back the item
and returns the funds he or she received from the sale.
We are subject to the risks of owning real property
In connection with the acquisitions of Kruse and ButterÑelds we acquired real property including land,
buildings and interests in partnerships holding land and buildings. We have no experience in managing real
property. Ownership of this property subjects us to new risks, including:
‚ the possibility of environmental contamination and the costs associated with Ñxing any environmental
problems;
‚ adverse changes in the value of these properties, due to interest rate changes, changes in the
neighborhoods in which the properties are located, or other factors;
‚ the possible need for structural improvements in order to comply with zoning, seismic, disability act or
other requirements; and
‚ possible disputes with tenants, partners or others.
Our market is intensely competitive
Depending on the category of product, we currently or potentially compete with a number of companies
serving particular categories of goods as well as those serving broader ranges of goods. The Internet is a new,
rapidly evolving and intensely competitive area. We expect competition to intensify in the future as the
barriers to entry are relatively low, and current and new competitors can launch new sites at a nominal cost
using commercially available software. Our broad-based competitors include the vast majority of traditional
department and general merchandise stores as well as emerging online retailers. These include most
42
prominently: Wal-Mart, Kmart, Target, Sears, Macy's, JC Penney, Costco, Sam's Club as well as Ama-
zon.com, Buy.com, AOL.com, Yahoo! shopping and MSN.
In addition, we face competition from specialty retailers and exchanges in each of its categories of
products. For example:
Antiques: Christie's, eHammer, Sotheby's/Sothebys.com
Coins & Stamps: Collectors Universe, Heritage, Numismatists Online, US Mint
Collectibles: Franklin Mint
Musical Instruments: Guitar Center, Harmony-Central.com, MARRS, MusicHotBid.com
Sports Memorabilia: Beckett's, Collectors Universe
Toys, Bean Bag Plush: Amazon.com, KB Toys, Toys.com
Premium Collectibles: Christies, DuPont Registry, Greg Manning Auctions, iCollector, Lycos/Skinner
Auctions, Millionaire.com, Phillips (LVMH), Sotheby's, Sothebys.com
Automotive (used cars): Autobytel.com, AutoVantage.com, AutoWeb.com, Barrett-Jackson,
CarOrder.com, CarPoint, Collectorcartraderonline.com, eClassics.com, Edmunds, CarsDirect.com, Hem-
mings, imotors.com, vehix.com, newspaper classiÑeds, used car dealers
Books, Movies, Music: Amazon.com, Barnes & Noble, Barnesandnoble.com, BigStar, Blockbuster,
BMG Columbia House, CDNow, DVD Express, Wherehouse, Alibris.com, Emusic.com, BookÑnders.com
Clothing: BlueÖy.com, Dockers.com, FashionMall.com, The Gap, J. Crew, LandsEnd.com, The Lim-
ited, Macys, The Men's Wearhouse, Ross, 3Dshopping.com
Computers & Consumer Electronics: Best Buy, Buy.com, Circuit City, Compaq, CompUSA, Dell,
Egghead, Fry's Electronics, Gateway, The Good Guys, IBM, MicroWarehouse, The Sharper Image,
Shopping.com
Home & Garden: IKEA, Crate & Barrel, Home Depot, Garden.com, Pottery Barn, Ethan Allen,
Frontgate
Jewelry: Ashford.com, Mondera.com
Sporting Goods/Equipment: dsports.com, FogDog.com, Footlocker, Gear.com, golfclubexchange,
MVP.com, PlanetOutdoors.com, Play It Again Sports, REI, Sports Authority, Sportsline.com
Tool/Equipment/Hardware: Home Depot, HomeBase, Amazon.com, Ace Hardware, OSH
Business-to-Business: Ariba, BidFreight.com, BizBuyer.com, bLiquid.com, CloseOutNow.com, Com-
merce One, Concur Technologies, DoveBid, FreeMarkets, Oracle, PurchasePro.com, RicardoBiz.com, Sabre,
SurplusBin.com, UnionStreet.com, Ventro, VerticalNet
Additionally, we face competition from various online auction sites including: Amazon.com, the
Fairmarket Auction Network (an auction network including Microsoft's MSN, Excite@Home, Dell Com-
puter, ZD Net, Lycos and more than 100 others), First Auction, Surplus Auction, uBid, Yahoo! Auctions and
a large number of other companies using an auction format for consumer-to-consumer or business-to-
consumer sales. Overseas, we face competition from Yahoo! Auctions in most countries and from a large
number of regional and national competitors in each country.
The principal competitive factors for eBay include the following:
‚ ability to attract buyers;
‚ volume of transactions and selection of goods;
‚ customer service; and
43
‚ brand recognition.
With respect to our online competition, additional competitive factors are:
‚ community cohesion and interaction;
‚ system reliability;
‚ reliability of delivery and payment;
‚ website convenience and accessibility;
‚ level of service fees; and
‚ quality of search tools.
Some current and potential competitors have longer company operating histories, larger customer bases
and greater brand recognition in other business and Internet spaces than we do. Some of these competitors
also have signiÑcantly greater Ñnancial, marketing, technical and other resources. Other online trading services
may be acquired by, receive investments from or enter into other commercial relationships with larger, well-
established and well-Ñnanced companies. As a result, some of our competitors with other revenue sources may
be able to devote more resources to marketing and promotional campaigns, adopt more aggressive pricing
policies and devote substantially more resources to website and systems development than we are able to.
Increased competition may result in reduced operating margins, loss of market share and diminished value of
our brand. Some of our competitors have oÅered services for free, and others may do this as well. We may be
unable to compete successfully against current and future competitors.
In order to respond to changes in the competitive environment, we may, from time to time, make pricing,
service or marketing decisions or acquisitions that could harm our business. For example, we have
implemented an insurance program that generally insures items up to a value of $200, with a $25 deductible,
for users with a non-negative feedback rating at no cost to the user. New technologies may increase the
competitive pressures by enabling our competitors to oÅer a lower cost service. Some Internet-based
applications that direct Internet traÇc to certain websites may channel users to trading services that compete
with us.
Although we have established Internet traÇc arrangements with several large online services and search
engine companies, these arrangements may not be renewed on commercially reasonable terms. Even if these
arrangements are renewed, they may not result in increased usage of our service. In addition, companies that
control access to transactions through network access or Internet browsers could promote our competitors or
charge us substantial fees for inclusion.
The oÅ-line auction business is intensely competitive. ButterÑelds competes with two larger and better
known auction companies, Sotheby's Holdings, Inc. and Christie's International plc, as well as numerous
regional auction companies. To the extent that these companies increase their focus on the middle market
properties that form the core of ButterÑelds' business or in the western United States, its business may suÅer.
Kruse is subject to competition from numerous regional competitors. In addition, competition with Internet-
based auctions may harm the land-based auction business. Although Billpoint's business is new, several new
companies have entered this space, including competitors who are oÅering free services and signiÑcant
promotional incentives, and large companies, including banks and credit card companies, are also beginning to
enter this space. Half.com competes directly with online retailers in its product categories such as
Amazon.com which oÅers a directly competitive service, as well as with traditional sellers of used books,
videos and CDs.
Our business is dependent on the development and maintenance of the Internet infrastructure
The success of our service will depend largely on the development and maintenance of the Internet
infrastructure. This includes maintenance of a reliable network backbone with the necessary speed, data
capacity and security, as well as timely development of complementary products, for providing reliable
Internet access and services. The Internet has experienced, and is likely to continue to experience, signiÑcant
44
growth in the numbers of users and amount of traÇc. If the Internet continues to experience increased
numbers of users, increased frequency of use or increased bandwidth requirements, the Internet infrastructure
may be unable to support the demands placed on it. In addition, the performance of the Internet may be
harmed by increased number of users or bandwidth requirements. The Internet has experienced a variety of
outages and other delays as a result of damage to portions of its infrastructure, and it could face outages and
delays in the future. These outages and delays could reduce the level of Internet usage as well as the level of
traÇc and the processing transactions on our service.
Our business is subject to online commerce security risks
A signiÑcant barrier to online commerce and communications is the secure transmission of conÑdential
information over public networks. Our security measures may not prevent security breaches. Our failure to
prevent security breaches could harm our business. Currently, a signiÑcant number of our users authorize us to
bill their credit card accounts directly for all transaction fees charged by us. Billpoint's users routinely provide
credit card and other Ñnancial information. We rely on encryption and authentication technology licensed
from third parties to provide the security and authentication technology to eÅect secure transmission of
conÑdential information, including customer credit card numbers. Advances in computer capabilities, new
discoveries in the Ñeld of cryptography, or other developments may result in a compromise or breach of the
technology used by us to protect customer transaction data. A number of websites have reported breaches of
their security. Any compromise of our security could harm our reputation and, therefore, our business. In
addition, a party who is able to circumvent our security measures could misappropriate proprietary information
or cause interruptions in our operations. An individual has claimed to have misappropriated some of our
conÑdential information by breaking into our computer system. We may need to expend signiÑcant resources
to protect against security breaches or to address problems caused by breaches. These issues are likely to
become more diÇcult as we expand the number of places where we operate. Security breaches could damage
our reputation and expose us to a risk of loss or litigation and possible liability. Our insurance policies carry
low coverage limits, which may not be adequate to reimburse us for losses caused by security breaches.
We must keep pace with rapid technological change to remain competitive
The space in which we compete is characterized by rapidly changing technology, evolving industry
standards, frequent new service and product introductions and enhancements and changing customer
demands. These characteristics are worsened by the emerging and changing nature of the Internet. Our future
success therefore will depend on our ability to adapt to rapidly changing technologies, to adapt our services to
evolving industry standards and to continually improve the performance, features and reliability of our service.
Our failure to adapt to such changes would harm our business. New technologies, such as the development of
a peer to peer personal trading technology, could adversely aÅect us. In addition, the widespread adoption of
new Internet, networking or telecommunications technologies or other technological changes could require
substantial expenditures to modify or adapt our services or infrastructure.
We need to develop new services, features and functions in order to expand
We plan to expand our operations by developing new or complementary services, products or transaction
formats or expanding the breadth and depth of services. We may be unable to expand our operations in a cost-
eÅective or timely manner. Even if we do expand, we may not maintain or increase our overall acceptance. If
we launch a new business or service that is not favorably received by consumers, it could damage our
reputation and diminish the value of our brand. We anticipate that future services will include pre-and post-
trade services.
We are pursuing strategic relationships with third parties to provide many of these services. Because we
use third parties to deliver these services, we may be unable to control the quality of these services and our
ability to address problems if any of these third parties fails to perform adequately will be reduced. Expanding
our operations in this manner also will require signiÑcant additional expenses and development, operations and
other resources and will strain our management, Ñnancial and operational resources. The lack of acceptance of
any new services could harm our business.
45
Our growth will depend on our ability to develop our brand
We believe that our historical growth has been largely attributable to word of mouth. We have beneÑted
from frequent and high visibility media exposure both nationally and locally. We believe that continuing to
strengthen our brand will be critical to achieving widespread acceptance of our service. Promoting and
positioning our brand will depend largely on the success of our marketing eÅorts and our ability to provide high
quality services. In order to promote our brand, we will need to increase our marketing budget and otherwise
increase our Ñnancial commitment to creating and maintaining brand loyalty among users. Brand promotion
activities may not yield increased revenues, and even if they do, any increased revenues may not oÅset the
expenses we incurred in building our brand. If we do attract new users to our service, they may not conduct
transactions over our service on a regular basis. If we fail to promote and maintain our brand or incur
substantial expenses in an unsuccessful attempt to promote and maintain our brand, our business would be
harmed.
We may be unable to protect or enforce our own intellectual property rights adequately
We regard the protection of our URLs, copyrights, service marks, trademarks, trade dress and trade
secrets as critical to our success. We rely on a combination of patent, copyright, trademark, service mark and
trade secret laws and contractual restrictions to protect our proprietary rights in products and services. We
have entered into conÑdentiality and invention assignment agreements with our employees and contractors,
and nondisclosure agreements with parties with whom we conduct business in order to limit access to and
disclosure of our proprietary information. These contractual arrangements and the other steps taken by us to
protect our intellectual property may not prevent misappropriation of our technology or deter independent
third-party development of similar technologies. We pursue the registration of our URLs, trademarks and
service marks in the U.S. and internationally. EÅective copyright, service mark, trademark, trade dress and
trade secret protection is very expensive to maintain, and protection may not be available in every country in
which our services are made available online. Furthermore, we must also protect our URLs in an increasing
number of jurisdictions, a process that is expensive and may not be successful in every location. We have
licensed in the past, and expect to license in the future, certain of our proprietary rights, such as trademarks or
copyrighted material, to third parties. These licensees may take actions that might diminish the value of our
proprietary rights or harm our reputation. We also rely on certain technologies that we license from third
parties, such as Oracle Corporation, Microsoft Corporation and Sun Microsystems Inc., the suppliers of key
database technologies, the operating system and speciÑc hardware components for our service. These third-
party technology licenses may not continue to be available to us on commercially reasonable terms. The loss of
these technologies could require us to obtain substitute technologies of lower quality or performance standards
or at greater cost.
Our business is subject to consumer trends and discretionary consumer spending
We derive most of our revenues from fees received from sellers for listing products for sale on our service
and fees received from successfully completed transactions. Our future revenues will depend upon continued
demand for the types of goods that are listed by users of our service. The popularity of certain categories of
items, such as toys, dolls and memorabilia, among consumers may vary over time due to perceived scarcity,
subjective value, and societal and consumer trends in general. A decline in the popularity of, or demand for,
certain collectibles or other items sold through our service could reduce the overall volume of transactions on
our service, resulting in reduced revenues. In addition, consumer ""fads'' may temporarily inÖate the volume of
certain types of items listed on our service, placing a signiÑcant strain upon our infrastructure and transaction
capacity. These trends also may cause Öuctuations in our operating results from one reporting period to the
next. Any decline in demand for the goods oÅered through our service as a result of changes in consumer
trends could harm our business. A decline in consumer spending would harm our land-based auction
businesses. Sales of Ñne and decorative art, collectable cars and other collectibles would be adversely aÅected
by a decline in discretionary consumer spending, especially for luxury items. Changes in buyers' tastes,
economic conditions or consumer trends could cause declines in the number or dollar volume of items sold and
thereby harm the business of these companies.
46
Some anti-takeover provisions may aÅect the price of our common stock
The Board of Directors has the authority to issue up to 10,000,000 shares of preferred stock and to
determine the preferences, rights and privileges of those shares without any further vote or action by the
stockholders. The rights of the holders of common stock may be harmed by the rights of the holders of any
preferred stock that may be issued in the future. Some provisions of our certiÑcate of incorporation and bylaws
could have the eÅect of making it more diÇcult for a third party to acquire a majority of our outstanding
voting stock. These include provisions that provide for a classiÑed board of directors, prohibit stockholders
from taking action by written consent and restrict the ability of stockholders to call special meetings. We are
also subject to provisions of Delaware law that prohibit us from engaging in any business combination with any
interested stockholder for a period of three years from the date the person became an interested stockholder,
unless certain conditions are met. This restriction could have the eÅect of delaying or preventing a change of
control.
We are controlled by certain stockholders, executive oÇcers and directors
Our executive oÇcers and directors (and their aÇliates) own approximately one-half of our outstanding
common stock. As a result, they have the ability to control our company and direct our aÅairs and business,
including the election of directors and approval of signiÑcant corporate transactions. This concentration of
ownership may have the eÅect of delaying, deferring or preventing a change in control of our company and
may make some transactions more diÇcult or impossible without the support of these stockholders. Any of
these events could decrease the market price of our common stock.
Item 7A: Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk
Interest Rate Risk
The primary objective of our investment activities is to preserve principal while at the same time
maximizing yields without signiÑcantly increasing risk. To achieve this objective, we maintain our portfolio of
cash equivalents, short-term and long-term investments in a variety of securities, including both government
and corporate obligations and money market funds. These securities are generally classiÑed as available for
sale and consequently are recorded on the balance sheet at fair value with unrealized gains or losses reported
as a separate component of accumulated other comprehensive income, net of estimated tax.
Investments in both Ñxed rate and Öoating rate interest earning instruments carry varying degrees of
interest rate risk. Fixed rate securities may have their fair market value adversely impacted due to a rise in
interest rates. In general, longer dated securities are subject to greater interest rate risk than shorter dated
securities. While Öoating rate securities generally are subject to less interest rate risk than Ñxed rate securities,
Öoating rate securities may produce less income than expected if interest rates decrease. Due in part to these
factors, our investment income may fall short of expectations or we may suÅer losses in principal if securities
are sold that have declined in market value due to changes in interest rates. As of December 31, 2000, our
Ñxed income investments earned a pretax yield of approximately 6.4% and had a weighted average maturity of
0.6 years. If interest rates were to instantaneously increase (decrease) by 100 basis points using a duration
modeling technique, the fair market value of the total investment portfolio could decrease (increase) by
approximately $4.9 million. Assuming an average investment balance of $750 million, if rates were to increase
(decrease) by 100 basis points, this would translate to an increase (decrease) in interest income of
$7.5 million annually.
We entered into two interest rate swaps on June 19 and July 20, 2000 totaling $95 million to reduce the
impact of changes in interest rates on a portion of the Öoating rate operating lease for our facilities. The
interest rate swaps allow for us to receive Öoating rate receipts based on LIBOR in exchange for making Ñxed
rate payments which eÅectively changes our interest rate exposure on our operating lease from a Öoating rate
to a Ñxed rate on $95 million of the total $126.4 million operating lease. Of the $126.4 million operating lease,
the interest rate is Ñxed on $95 million with the balance of $31.4 million remaining at a Öoating rate of interest
based on the spread over 3-month LIBOR. If the 3-month LIBOR rates were to increase (decrease) by
100 basis points, then our lease payments would increase (decrease) by $78,000 per quarter.
47
Equity Price Risk
We are exposed to equity price risk on the marketable portion of equity investments as such investments
we hold, typically as the result of strategic investments in strategic partners are subject to considerable market
risk due to their volatility. We typically do not attempt to reduce or eliminate our market exposure in these
equity investments. As of December 31, 2000, the position in equity investments included a net unrealized loss
of $1.6 million, net of tax.
Foreign Currency Risk
International sales are made mostly from our sales in the respective countries by our foreign subsidiaries
and are typically denominated in the local currency of each country. These subsidiaries also incur most of their
expenses in the local currency. Accordingly, all foreign subsidiaries use the local currency as their functional
currency. Our international business is subject to risks typical of an international business, including, but not
limited to diÅering economic conditions, changes in political climate, diÅering tax structures, other regulations
and restrictions, and foreign exchange rate volatility. Accordingly, our future results could be materially
adversely impacted by changes in these or other factors. These Ñnancial statements are typically denominated
in the functional currency of the foreign subsidiary in order to centralize foreign exchange risk with the parent
company in the United States. We are also exposed to foreign exchange rate Öuctuations as the Ñnancial
results of foreign subsidiaries are translated into U.S. dollars in consolidation. As exchange rates vary, these
results, when translated, may vary from expectations and adversely impact overall expected proÑtability. The
eÅect of foreign exchange rate Öuctuations on eBay as of December 31, 2000 was a translation gain of
approximately $745,000.
Item 8: Financial Statements and Supplementary Data
Annual Financial Statements: See Part IV, Item 14 of this Form 10-K.
Item 9: Changes In and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure
None.
48
PART III
Item 10: Directors and Executive OÇcers of the Registrant
Incorporated by reference to eBay's Proxy Statement to be Ñled on or before April 30, 2001
Item 11: Executive Compensation
Incorporated by reference to eBay's Proxy Statement to be Ñled on or before April 30, 2001.
Item 12: Security Ownership of Certain BeneÑcial Owners and Management
Incorporated by reference to eBay's Proxy Statement to be Ñled on or before April 30, 2001.
Item 13: Certain Relationships and Related Transactions
Incorporated by reference to eBay's Proxy Statement to be Ñled on or before April 30, 2001.
49
PART IV
Item 14: Exhibits, Financial Statement Schedules and Reports on Form 8-K
Upon written request, eBay will provide, without charge, a copy of this Report on Form 10-K, including
the consolidated Ñnancial statements, Ñnancial statement schedules and any exhibits for eBay's most recent
Ñscal year. All requests should be sent to:
eBay Inc.
Investor Relations
2145 Hamilton Ave.
San Jose, CA 95125
(408) 558-7400
In addition, the Securities and Exchange Commission maintains a website that provides access to all
Ñlings made electronically by eBay at www.sec.gov. eBay's website is located at www.ebay.com. Information
contained on eBay's website is not a part of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
(a) The following documents are Ñled as part of this report:
1. Consolidated Financial Statements:
Page
Number
Report of Independent Accountants ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Consolidated Balance Sheet ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Consolidated Statement of IncomeÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Consolidated Statement of Stockholders' Equity ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
52
53
54
55
56
57
58
2. Financial Statement Schedules.
All schedules have been omitted because the information required to be set forth therein is not applicable
or is shown in the Ñnancial statements or notes thereto.
3. Exhibits.
The following exhibits are Ñled as part of, or incorporated by reference into, this Form 10-K:
Exhibit
Number
Exhibit Title
2.01 Agreement and Plan of Merger and Reorganization among Registrant, Margarine Acquisition
Sub Corp., ButterÑeld & ButterÑeld Auctioneers Corp, HBJ Partners, LLC and 111 Potrero
LLC.(6)
2.04 Agreement and Plan of Merger and Reorganization among Registrant and Kruse, Inc.(5)
2.05 Agreement and Plan of Merger and Reorganization among Registrant and Billpoint, Inc.(6)
3.01 Registrant's Amended and Restated CertiÑcate of Incorporation.(2)
3.02 Registrant's CertiÑcate of Amendment of CertiÑcate of Incorporation.
3.03 Registrant's Corrected CertiÑcate of CertiÑcate of Amendment of CertiÑcate of Incorporation
of Registrant.
3.04 Registrant's Amended and Restated Bylaws.(2)
4.01
4.02
Form of Specimen CertiÑcate for Registrant's Common Stock.(1)
Investor Rights Agreement, dated June 20, 1997, between the Registrant and certain
stockholders named therein.(1)
Form of Indemnity Agreement entered into by Registrant with each of its directors and
executive oÇcers.(1)
10.01
10.02 Registrant's 1996 Stock Option Plan and related documents.(1)
50
Exhibit
Number
Exhibit Title
10.03 Registrant's 1997 Stock Option Plan and related documents.(1)
10.04 Registrant's 1998 Equity Incentive Plan and related documents.(1)
10.05 Registrant's 1998 Directors Stock Option Plan and related documents.(1)
10.06 Amendment No. 1 to Registrant's 1998 Directors Stock Option Plan.(3)
10.07 Registrant's 1998 Employee Stock Purchase Plan.(1)
10.08 Registrant's 1999 Global Equity Incentive Plan and related documents.(10)
10.09 Employment Letter Agreement dated October 16, 1996 between JeÅ Skoll and
Registrant.(1)
10.10 Employment Letter Agreement dated September 15, 1997 between Gary Bengier and
Registrant.(1)
10.11 Employment Letter Agreement dated January 16, 1998 between Margaret C. Whitman and
Registrant.(1)
10.12 Employment Letter Agreement dated August 14, 1998 between Brian T. Swette and
Registrant.(1)
10.13 Employment Letter Agreement dated August 20, 1998 between Michael R. Jacobson and
Registrant.(1)
10.14 OÅer Letter to Maynard Webb.(8)
10.15 Retention Bonus Plan between Registrant and Maynard Webb, dated January 10, 2001.
10.16 OÅer Letter to JeÅrey D. Jordan.(8)
10.17 Retention Bonus Plan between Registrant and JeÅrey D. Jordan, dated May 16, 2000.
10.18 Lease between eBay Realty Trust and Registrant, dated March 1, 2000.(9)
10.19 Cash Collateral Agreement between Registrant and Chase Manhattan Bank as Agent, Dated
March 1, 2000.(9)
21.01 List of Subsidiaries.
23.01
PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP consent.
(1) Previously Ñled as an Exhibit to Registrant's Registration Statement on Form S-1 (No. 33-59097) Ñled
in connection with eBay's initial public oÅering and incorporated by reference herein.
(2) Previously Ñled as an Exhibit to the Registrant's Form 10-Q Ñled on November 13, 1998 and
incorporated by reference herein.
(3) Previously Ñled as an Exhibit to Registrant's Registration Statement on Form S-1 (No. 33-75009) Ñled
on March 25, 1999 and incorporated by reference herein.
(4) Previously Ñled as an Exhibit to the Registrant's Form 10-K for the Ñscal year ended December 31,
1998 and incorporated by reference herein.
(5) Previously Ñled as an Exhibit to the Registrant's Form 8-K Ñled on May 8, 1999 and incorporated by
reference herein.
(6) Previously Ñled as an Exhibit to the Registrant's Form 8-K Ñled on June 7, 1999 and incorporated by
reference herein.
(7) Previously Ñled as an Exhibit to the Registrant's Form 10-Q Ñled on November 15, 1999 and
incorporated by reference herein.
(8) Previously Ñled as an Exhibit to the Registrant's Registration Statement on Form S-3 (No. 333-88205)
Ñled on September 30, 1999 and incorporated by reference herein.
(9) Previously Ñled as an Exhibit to the Registrant's Form 10-K for the Ñscal year ended December 31,
1999 and incorporated by reference herein.
(10) Previously Ñled as an Exhibit to the Registrant's Registration Statement on Form S-8 (No. 333-41944)
Ñled on July 21, 2000 and incorporated by reference herein.
51
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT ACCOUNTANTS
To the Board of Directors and
Stockholders of eBay Inc.
In our opinion, the accompanying consolidated balance sheets and the related consolidated statements of
income, comprehensive income, stockholders' equity and of cash Öows present fairly, in all material respects,
the Ñnancial position of eBay Inc. and its subsidiaries (""the Company'') at December 31, 1999 and 2000, and
the results of their operations and their cash Öows for each of the three years in the period ended
December 31, 2000, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of
America. These Ñnancial statements are the responsibility of the Company's management; our responsibility is
to express an opinion on these Ñnancial statements based on our audits. We conducted our audits of these
statements in accordance with auditing standards generally accepted in the United States of America, which
require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the Ñnancial
statements are free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence
supporting the amounts and disclosures in the Ñnancial statements, assessing the accounting principles used
and signiÑcant estimates made by management and evaluating the overall Ñnancial statement presentation.
We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.
San Jose, California
January 18, 2001
52
eBay Inc.
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET
(in thousands, except per share amounts)
A S S E T S
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Short-term investments ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Accounts receivable, netÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Other current assets ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Total current assetsÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Long-term investmentsÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Property and equipment, net ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Intangible and other assets, net ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Restricted cash and investments ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Deferred tax assets ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
Current liabilities:
Accounts payable ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Accrued expenses ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Deferred revenue and customer advances ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Short-term debtÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Income taxes payable ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Other current liabilities ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Total current liabilities ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Long-term debt ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Other liabilities ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Minority interests ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Commitments and contingencies (Note 10)
Stockholders' equity:
Preferred Stock, $0.001 par value; 10,000 shares authorized, no shares issued
or outstanding ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Common Stock, $0.001 par value; 900,000 shares authorized; 262,087 and
269,250 shares issued and outstanding ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Additional paid-in capitalÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Notes receivable from stockholders ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Unearned stock-based compensation ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Retained earnings ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Total stockholders' equity ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
December 31,
1999
2000
$221,801
181,086
36,538
25,882
465,307
373,988
112,202
12,689
Ì
5,639
$969,825
$ 32,133
32,173
5,997
15,781
6,455
502
93,041
15,018
5,905
1,732
115,696
$ 201,873
354,166
67,163
52,262
675,464
218,197
125,161
23,299
126,390
13,892
$1,182,403
$
31,725
60,882
12,656
15,272
11,092
5,815
137,442
11,404
6,549
13,248
168,643
Ì
Ì
262
831,121
(11)
(8,704)
26,367
5,094
854,129
$969,825
269
941,285
Ì
(1,423)
74,504
(875)
1,013,760
$1,182,403
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated Ñnancial statements.
53
eBay Inc.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF INCOME
(in thousands, except per share amounts)
Net revenues ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Cost of net revenues ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Gross proÑt ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
$ 86,129
16,094
70,035
$224,724
57,588
167,136
$431,424
95,453
335,971
Year Ended December 31,
1999
2000
1998
Operating expenses:
Sales and marketing ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Product development ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
General and administrative ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Payroll expense on employee stock options ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Amortization of acquired intangibles ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Merger related costs ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Total operating expenses ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Income (loss) from operations ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Interest and other income, net ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Interest expenseÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Income before income taxes, minority interest and equity interest in
partnership income ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Provision for income taxes ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Minority interest in consolidated companyÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Equity interest in partnership income ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Net income ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Net income per share:
Basic ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Diluted ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
35,976
4,640
15,849
Ì
805
Ì
57,270
12,765
1,799
(2,191)
12,373
(4,789)
(381)
70
7,273
0.07
0.03
$
$
$
Weighted average shares:
96,239
24,847
43,919
Ì
1,145
4,359
170,509
(3,373)
23,833
(2,319)
18,141
(8,472)
(256)
154
9,567
$
$
$
166,767
55,863
73,027
2,337
1,433
1,550
300,977
34,994
46,337
(3,374)
77,957
(32,725)
3,062
Ì
$ 48,294
0.04
0.04
$
$
0.19
0.17
Basic ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
104,128
Diluted ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
233,519
217,674
273,033
251,776
280,346
Supplemental pro forma information:
Income before income taxes, minority interest and equity interest
in partnership income ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Provision for income taxes as reported ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Pro forma adjustment to provision for income taxes (Note 15) ÏÏÏ
Minority interest in consolidated company as reported ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Equity interest in partnership income as reportedÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Pro forma net incomeÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Pro forma net income per share:
Basic ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Diluted ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
$
$
$
$ 12,373
(4,789)
(2,071)
(381)
70
5,202
$ 18,141
(8,472)
1,118
(256)
154
$ 10,685
$ 77,957
(32,725)
Ì
3,062
Ì
$ 48,294
0.05
0.02
$
$
0.05
0.04
$
$
0.19
0.17
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated Ñnancial statements.
54
eBay Inc.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
(in thousands)
Net income ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Other comprehensive income (loss):
Year Ended December 31,
1998
1999
2000
$7,273
$ 9,567
$ 48,294
Foreign currency translation adjustments ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Unrealized gains (losses) on investments, netÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Estimated tax beneÑt (provision) on other comprehensive income ÏÏÏ
Net change in other comprehensive income (loss)ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Comprehensive incomeÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Ì
Ì
Ì
Ì
$7,273
(58)
8,883
(3,731)
5,094
$14,661
803
(11,583)
4,811
(5,969)
$ 42,325
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated Ñnancial statements.
55
eBay Inc.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
(in thousands)
Year ended December 31,
1999
2000
1998
$
Ì
Ì
Ì
246
Ì
16
262
Ì
Ì
Ì
262
Ì
7
269
Convertible preferred stock:
Balance, beginning of year ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Conversion of preferred stock to common stockÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Balance, end of yearÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
$
$
4
(4)
Ì
Common stock:
Balance, beginning of year ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Conversion of preferred to common stockÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Common stock issued ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Balance, end of yearÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Additional Paid-in-capital:
Balance, beginning of year ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Conversion of preferred to common stockÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Common stock issued ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Common stock repurchased ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Contributions from partners and minority interest ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Unearned stock-based compensation ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Tax beneÑt related to acquisitions ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Stock option income tax beneÑt ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Balance, end of yearÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Notes receivable from stockholders:
Balance, beginning of year ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Common stock issued for notes ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Note repayments ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Cancellation or repurchase of shares ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Balance, end of yearÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Unearned stock-based compensation:
Balance, beginning of year ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Unearned stock-based compensation ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Amortization of unearned stock-based compensation ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Cancellation or repurchase of shares ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Balance, end of yearÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Retained earnings:
Balance, beginning of year ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Accretion of mandatorily redeemable convertible preferred stock ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Partnership contributionsÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Partnership distributions ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Net income ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Balance, end of yearÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Other comprehensive income:
126
56
64
246
2,476
5,105
73,944
Ì
300
5,831
Ì
Ì
87,656
(68)
(1,378)
316
Ì
(1,130)
(1,399)
(5,831)
3,091
Ì
(4,139)
8,583
(46)
5,323
(3,228)
7,273
17,905
87,656
Ì
714,319
(1,397)
Ì
10,686
8,753
11,104
831,121
(1,130)
Ì
1,066
53
(11)
(4,139)
(10,686)
4,781
1,340
(8,704)
17,905
Ì
Ì
(1,105)
9,567
26,367
Balance, beginning of year ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Unrealized gain (loss) on investments, net of tax ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Foreign currency translation adjustment ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Balance, end of yearÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Total stockholders' equity ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Ì
Ì
Ì
Ì
$100,538
Ì
5,152
(58)
5,094
$854,129
831,121
Ì
49,043
(365)
23,816
187
Ì
37,483
941,285
(11)
Ì
11
Ì
Ì
(8,704)
(187)
7,141
327
(1,423)
26,367
Ì
Ì
(157)
48,294
74,504
5,094
(6,772)
803
(875)
$1,013,760
Common stock:
Balance, beginning of year ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Conversion of preferred to common stockÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Issuance of common stock for cash and notes ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Issuance of common stock at public oÅering ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Issuance of common stock for acquisitionÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Contribution of common stock for charitable foundation ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Balance, end of yearÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
126,630
55,654
38,579
24,086
857
644
246,450
246,450
Ì
3,614
8,500
3,523
Ì
262,087
262,087
Ì
4,593
Ì
2,570
Ì
269,250
Number of shares
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated Ñnancial statements.
56
eBay Inc.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS
(in thousands)
Cash Öows from operating activities:
Net income ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by
operating activities:
Provision for doubtful accounts and authorized credits ÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Depreciation and amortizationÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Amortization of unearned stock-based compensation ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Tax beneÑt on stock options ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Other ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Changes in assets and liabilities:
Accounts receivable ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Other current and non-current assets ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Accounts payable ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Accrued expenses ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Income tax payableÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Other liabilities ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Net cash provided by operating activitiesÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Cash Öows from investing activities:
Purchases of property and equipmentÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Purchases of investments ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Maturities of investmentsÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Sales of investments ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Proceeds from sale of property and equipment ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Purchases of intangible assets ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Payments on notes receivable ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Net cash used in investing activitiesÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Cash Öows from Ñnancing activities:
Proceeds from issuance of preferred stock, net ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Proceeds from issuance of common stock, net ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Proceeds from issuance of common stock by subsidiaries ÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Repurchased sharesÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Repayments of stockholder loans ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Proceeds (principal payments) on long-term debt ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Proceeds from notes payable ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Partnership contributions ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Partnership distributionsÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Net cash provided by Ñnancing activities ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Cash and cash equivalents at end of year ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Supplemental cash Öow disclosures:
Cash paid for interest ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Cash paid for income taxes ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Non-cash investing and Ñnancing activities:
Common stock issued for notes receivableÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Common stock issued for acquisition ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Preferred stock issued for notes payableÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Building and inventory obtained in connection with foreclosure ÏÏÏ
Receivables cancelled in connection with foreclosureÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Land and building transferred for assumption of debt ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Year Ended December 31,
1999
2000
1998
$
7,273
$
9,567
$
48,294
3,939
4,526
2,661
Ì
(1,507)
(8,931)
(3,702)
(3,112)
3,164
(35)
1,765
6,041
(12,758)
(40,401)
Ì
Ì
1,274
(1,248)
109
(53,024)
2,110
69,305
Ì
Ì
316
(1,967)
Ì
5,623
(3,228)
72,159
25,176
12,109
$ 37,285
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
1,710
4,932
1,378
2,000
Ì
751
500
835
9,271
20,742
4,781
11,104
1,751
(33,384)
(18,701)
22,137
26,099
6,143
3,342
62,852
(86,907)
(620,733)
111,154
Ì
173
(7,159)
109
(603,363)
Ì
713,252
Ì
Ì
1,062
4,894
3,507
6,204
(3,892)
725,027
184,516
37,285
$ 221,801
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
1,465
Ì
Ì
9,744
Ì
Ì
Ì
Ì
18,237
38,050
7,141
37,483
(1,475)
(48,862)
(40,775)
(408)
28,709
4,637
9,117
100,148
(49,753)
(398,998)
247,398
1,149
Ì
(5,850)
Ì
(206,054)
Ì
45,556
37,737
(38)
11
2,869
Ì
Ì
(157)
85,978
(19,928)
221,801
$ 201,873
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
1,915
Ì
Ì
17,341
3,494
Ì
Ì
Ì
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated Ñnancial statements.
57
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
eBay Inc.
Note 1 Ì The Company and Summary of SigniÑcant Accounting Policies:
The Company
eBay Inc. (""eBay'') was incorporated in California in May 1996, and reincorporated in Delaware in
March 1998 and by December 31, 2000 had operations in the United States, Switzerland, the United
Kingdom, Germany, France, Austria, Australia, Canada, and Japan. eBay pioneered online personal trading
by developing a Web-based community in which buyers and sellers are brought together to buy and sell almost
anything. The eBay online service permits sellers to list items for sale, buyers to bid on items of interest and all
eBay users to browse through listed items in a fully-automated, topically-arranged service that is available
online seven days a week. eBay's acquisition of Half.com, Inc. (""Half.com'') enables eBay to oÅer an online
website to buy and sell using a Ñxed-price trading platform. eBay also engages in the traditional auction
business through its subsidiaries, ButterÑelds Auctioneer Corporation (""ButterÑelds'') and Kruse Interna-
tional (""Kruse'') and in online payment processing through its Billpoint, Inc. (""Billpoint'') subsidiary.
Reincorporation
As a result of the reincorporation in April 1998, eBay was authorized to issue 180,000,000 shares of
$0.001 par value common stock and 6,000,000 shares of $0.001 par value Preferred Stock. The Board of
Directors and the stockholders subsequently amended the number of authorized shares such that eBay was
authorized to issue 900,000,000 shares of common stock and 10,000,000 shares of Preferred Stock. The Board
of Directors has the authority to issue the undesignated Preferred Stock in one or more series and to Ñx the
rights, preferences, privileges and restrictions thereof.
Stock split
During January 1999 and April 2000, eBay's Board of Directors approved a three-for-one and two-for-one
common stock split, respectively. Stockholders of record on February 9, 1999, received two additional shares
on March 1, 1999. Stockholders of record on May 9, 2000, received one additional share for each share owned
on May 24, 2000. All share and per share amounts in these consolidated Ñnancial statements and notes thereto
for all periods presented reÖect the stock splits in all periods presented.
Public oÅerings
On September 24, 1998, eBay completed its initial public oÅering of 24,150,000 shares of its common
stock which were sold at a price of $3.00 per share. Of the 24,150,000 shares, 64,000 shares were sold on
behalf of a charitable foundation established by eBay. The proceeds resulted in net proceeds to eBay of
approximately $66.1 million. At the closing of the oÅering, all issued and outstanding shares of eBay's
Convertible Preferred Stock and Mandatorily Redeemable Convertible Preferred Stock were converted into
an aggregate of 55,654,038 shares of common stock.
On April 16, 1999, eBay completed a follow-on public oÅering of common stock. A total of 8,500,000
shares were sold by eBay at a price of $85.00 per share. The oÅering resulted in net proceeds to eBay of
approximately $696.2 million.
Sale of subsidiary stock
WELLS FARGO BANK
On February 24, 2000, Billpoint and Wells Fargo Bank (""Wells Fargo'') entered into an agreement
whereby Wells Fargo became the exclusive provider of Internet payment services of domestic transactions for
Billpoint's customers. The service agreement expires February 28, 2007.
58
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
eBay Inc.
Billpoint was reincorporated in Delaware and sold 350 shares of common stock and 1,399,965 shares of
Series A preferred stock to Wells Fargo which represented approximately 35% ownership in Billpoint.
Simultaneously, eBay exchanged 25,999,350 of Billpoint's common shares for 2,599,935 shares of Series A
preferred stock. eBay continues to consolidate the Ñnancial statements of Billpoint and reÖects a minority
interest for the equity interest of Wells Fargo.
NEC
On February 17, 2000, eBay Japan Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of eBay, entered into a shareholder
and marketing services agreement with NEC Corporation. In accordance with the shareholder agreement,
NEC acquired 30% of eBay Japan and eBay retained the remaining 70% interest of eBay Japan. eBay will
continue to consolidate the Ñnancial statements of eBay Japan due to a majority ownership interest and will
reÖect a minority interest for the equity interest of NEC.
In accordance with the marketing agreement, NEC provided marketing and services to eBay Japan in an
eÅort to deliver a minimum level of conÑrmed registered users. As compensation for the marketing and other
services performed by NEC, eBay Japan paid NEC an annual up-front fee of approximately $1.5 million. The
Ñrst payment was made in April, 2000, and additional payments will be payable on the anniversary of such
date in each of the subsequent three years as long as the contract is in eÅect. If NEC is unable to deliver the
minimum level of conÑrmed registered users, then eBay will have the right to repurchase shares of eBay Japan
from NEC.
Use of estimates
The preparation of consolidated Ñnancial statements in conformity with generally accepted accounting
principles requires management to make estimates and assumptions that aÅect the reported amounts of assets
and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the consolidated Ñnancial
statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results
could diÅer from those estimates.
Principles of consolidation and basis of presentation
The Ñnancial statements as of December 31, 1999 and 2000 and for the three years ended December 31,
2000 are consolidated and include eBay and its majority owned subsidiaries. All signiÑcant intercompany
balances and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation. Certain prior period balances have been
reclassiÑed to conform to the current period presentation.
Investments in subsidiaries and general partnerships
Subsidiaries and general partnerships in which eBay holds more than 50 percent ownership are
consolidated. The consolidated accounts include 100 percent of the assets and liabilities of these subsidiaries
and general partnerships and the ownership interests of minority investors are recorded as minority interests.
Investments in entities and general partnerships where eBay holds more than 20 percent ownership but less
than 50 percent ownership and has the ability to signiÑcantly inÖuence the operations of the investee are
accounted for using the equity method of accounting, are recorded as investments in partnerships or equity
investees and are included within other assets.
Investments by third parties in the stock of eBay subsidiaries are evaluated for their impact on the
carrying amount of eBay's interest at the date such investments are made. To the extent the proceeds from
these investments diÅer from the carrying amount of the third party's ownership interest in the net equity of
the subsidiary, such diÅerences are recognized as a component of stockholders' equity.
59
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
eBay Inc.
Fair value of Ñnancial instruments
eBay's Ñnancial instruments, including cash, cash equivalents, accounts receivable, and accounts payable
are carried at cost, which approximates their fair value because of the short-term maturity of these
instruments. Cash and cash equivalents are short-term, highly liquid investments with original maturities of
three months or less when purchased. Short and long-term investments, which include marketable equity
securities, municipal, government and corporate bonds are classiÑed as available-for-sale and reported at fair
value using the speciÑc identiÑcation method. Realized gains and losses are included in earnings. Unrealized
gains and losses are excluded from earnings and reported as other comprehensive income, net of estimated tax
provisions or beneÑts.
Concentrations of credit risk
Financial instruments that potentially subject eBay to a concentration of credit risk consist of cash, cash
equivalents, investments and accounts receivable. Cash, cash equivalents and investments are deposited with
high credit, quality Ñnancial institutions. eBay's accounts receivable are derived from revenue earned from
customers located in the U.S. and internationally. The revenues earned from the U.S. site are denominated in
U.S. dollars and revenue earned from eBay's international sites are denominated in the country's functional
currency. Accounts receivable balances are typically settled through customer credit cards and, as a result, the
majority of accounts receivable are collected upon processing of credit card transactions. eBay maintains an
allowance for doubtful accounts receivable based upon the expected collectibility of accounts receivable.
Generally, due to the relative small amount of individual outstanding accounts receivable balances, eBay does
not require collateral on these balances. eBay also entered into two interest rate swaps with two separate
Ñnancial institutions in order to reduce its interest rate exposure on its lease payments. If either of these
Ñnancial institutions should fail to deliver under these contracts, eBay may be subject to variable interest rate
payments. During the years ended December 31, 1998, 1999 and 2000 no customers accounted for more than
10% of net revenues or net accounts receivable.
Foreign currency
All of eBay's foreign subsidiaries use the local currency of their respective countries as their functional
currency. Assets and liabilities are translated at exchange rates prevailing at the balance sheet dates.
Revenues, costs and expenses are translated into United States dollars at average exchange rates for the
period. Gains and losses resulting from translation are accumulated as a component of other comprehensive
income.
Realized gains and losses from foreign currency transactions are recognized as a component of net
income as incurred.
Property and equipment
Property and equipment are stated at historical cost less accumulated depreciation. Depreciation and
amortization are computed using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the assets,
generally 5 years or less for equipment and furniture, and up to 40 years for buildings and building
improvements.
Impairment of long-lived assets
eBay evaluates the recoverability of long-lived assets in accordance with Statement of Financial
Accounting Standards (""SFAS'') No. 121, ""Accounting for the Impairment of Long-Lived Assets and for
Long-Lived Assets to be Disposed of.'' SFAS No. 121 requires recognition of impairment of long-lived assets
60
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
eBay Inc.
in the event the net book value of such assets exceeds the future undiscounted cash Öows attributable to such
assets.
Intangible assets
Intangible assets resulting from the acquisitions of entities accounted for using the purchase method of
accounting are estimated by management based on the fair value of assets received. These include acquired
customer lists, workforce, technological know how, covenants not to compete and goodwill. During the year
ended December 31, 2000, a subsidiary of eBay purchased the technology and related workforce from the
Precision Buying Service, a division of Deja.com, in which eBay recorded an intangible asset of approximately
$5.9 million. Intangible assets are amortized from eight months to ten years on a straight-line basis which
represents the estimated periods of beneÑt.
Environmental expenditures
eBay owns or controls real estate properties that are either used in the auction business or leased to
unrelated parties for various commercial applications. Certain environmental and structural deÑciencies have
been identiÑed in the past for which eBay has remediation responsibility. The amounts accrued to correct
these matters are based upon estimates developed in preliminary studies by external consultants. Due to
uncertainties inherent in the estimation process, the amounts accrued for these matters may be revised in
future periods as additional information is obtained.
Environmental expenditures that relate to an existing condition caused by past operations, and that do not
contribute to current or future revenue generation, are charged to expense. Liabilities are recorded when
environmental assessments are made, remediation obligations are probable and the costs can be reasonably
estimated. The timing of these accruals is generally upon the completion of feasibility studies. As of
December 31, 1999 and 2000, estimated liabilities of approximately $5.8 million are included within other
liabilities.
Comprehensive income
eBay accounts for comprehensive income in accordance with SFAS No. 130, ""Reporting Comprehensive
Income.'' SFAS No. 130 establishes standards for reporting comprehensive income and its components in
Ñnancial statements. Comprehensive income, as deÑned, includes all changes in equity (net assets) during a
period from non-owner sources. The change in comprehensive income for all periods presented resulted from
foreign currency translation gains and losses and unrealized gains and losses on securities.
Revenue recognition
Online transaction revenues are derived primarily from placement fees charged for the listing of items on
the eBay website, success fees calculated as a percentage of the Ñnal sales transaction value for both eBay and
Half.com, and to a lesser extent, online advertising.
Listing and featured item fee revenue is recognized ratably over the estimated period of the auction while
revenues related to success fees are recognized at the time that the transaction is successfully concluded. A
transaction is considered successfully concluded when at least one buyer has bid above the seller's speciÑed
minimum price or reserve price, whichever is higher, at the end of the transaction term. Advertising revenues,
which are principally derived from the sale of banners or sponsorship on the eBay site, are recognized as the
impressions are delivered, or ratably over the term of the agreement where such agreements provide for
minimum monthly or quarterly advertising commitments or such commitments are Ñxed throughout the term.
Provisions for doubtful accounts and authorized credits to sellers are made at the time of revenue recognition
based upon our historical experience.
61
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
eBay Inc.
Kruse auction revenues are derived primarily from entry fees on auction items, bidder registration fees
and commission fees calculated as a percentage of the Ñnal auction sales transaction value. Revenues related
to these fees are recognized upon the completion of an auction. Revenues are also derived from sponsorship
fees paid by various corporations. Sponsorship fee revenues are recognized over the term of the sponsorship
agreement. Advertising revenues and auctioneer tuition fees do not represent a signiÑcant source of revenues
and are recognized as advertising and auctioneer training services are provided.
ButterÑelds auction revenues are derived primarily from auction commissions and fees from the sale of
property through the auction process. Revenues from these sources are recognized at the date the related
auction is concluded. Service revenues are derived from Ñnancial, appraisal and other related services and are
recognized as such services are rendered. Rental revenues are derived from property rentals to third parties.
To date, barter advertising has accounted for less than 1% of eBay's revenue. eBay records barter revenue
in accordance with Emerging Issues Task Force (""EITF'') Issue No. 99-17, ""Accounting for Advertising
Barter Transactions'' which requires that barter transactions be recognized at the fair value of the advertising
surrendered when an entity has a historical practice of receiving cash or marketable securities for similar
advertising transactions. A period not to exceed six months prior to the date of the barter transaction has been
used to determine whether eBay has a historical practice of receiving cash or marketable securities for similar
advertising. In addition, the recognition of revenue on barter advertising is limited by the dollar amount of the
cash received for similar transactions during the same period.
Website development costs
eBay recognizes website development costs in accordance with EITF Issue No. 00-02, ""Accounting for
Website Development Costs.'' As such, eBay expenses all costs incurred that relate to the planning and post
implementation phases of development of its website. Direct costs incurred in the development phase are
capitalized and recognized over the product's estimated useful life. Costs associated with repair or mainte-
nance for the website are included in cost of net revenues in the accompanying consolidated statement of
income.
Advertising expense
eBay recognizes advertising expenses in accordance with SOP 93-7 ""Reporting on Advertising Costs.'' As
such, eBay expenses the costs of producing advertisements at the time production occurs, and expenses the
cost of communicating advertising in the period during which the advertising space or airtime is used. Internet
advertising expenses are recognized based on the terms of the individual agreements, which is generally over
the greater of the ratio of the number of impressions delivered over the total number of contracted
impressions, or a straight-line basis over the term of the contract. Advertising expenses totaled $15.4 million,
$46.1 million, and $85.4 million during the years ended December 31, 1998, 1999 and 2000, respectively.
Stock-based compensation
eBay accounts for stock-based employee compensation arrangements in accordance with provisions of
Accounting Principles Board (""APB'') Opinion No. 25, ""Accounting for Stock Issued to Employees,'' FASB
Interpretation No. 44 (""FIN 44'') ""Accounting for Certain Transactions Involving Stock Compensation Ì an
Interpretation of APB 25,'' and complies with the disclosure provisions of SFAS No. 123, ""Accounting for
Stock-Based Compensation.'' Under APB No. 25, compensation expense is based on the diÅerence, if any, on
the date of the grant, between the fair value of eBay's stock and the exercise price. eBay accounts for stock
issued to non-employees in accordance with the provisions of SFAS No. 123 and the EITF Issue No. 96-18,
""Accounting for Equity Instruments that are Issued to other than Employees for Acquiring, or in Conjunction
with Selling Goods or Services.''
62
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
eBay Inc.
Income taxes
Income taxes are accounted for using an asset and liability approach which requires the recognition of taxes
payable or refundable for the current year and deferred tax liabilities and assets for the future tax consequences of
events that have been recognized in eBay's financial statements or tax returns. The measurement of current and
deferred tax assets and liabilities are based on provisions of the enacted tax law; the effects of future changes in tax
laws or rates are not anticipated. The measurement of deferred tax assets is reduced, if necessary, by the amount of
any tax benefits that, based on available evidence, are not expected to be realized.
Recent accounting pronouncements
In June 1998, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (""FASB'') issued SFAS No. 133, ""Accounting
for Derivatives and Hedging Activities.'' SFAS No. 133 establishes accounting and reporting standards for
derivative instruments, including certain derivative instruments embedded in other contracts, and for hedging
activities. In June 1999, the FASB issued SFAS No. 137, ""Accounting for Derivative Instruments and
Hedging Activities Ì Deferral of the EÅective Date of FASB Statement No. 133,'' which deferred the
eÅective date until the Ñrst Ñscal year ending on or after June 30, 2000. In June 2000, the FASB issued SFAS
Statement No. 138, ""Accounting for Certain Derivative Instruments and Certain Hedging Activities Ì an
Amendment of SFAS 133.'' SFAS No. 138 amends certain terms and conditions of SFAS 133. SFAS 133
requires that all derivative instruments be recognized at fair value as either assets or liabilities in the statement
of Ñnancial position. The accounting for changes in the fair value (i.e., gains or losses) of a derivative
instrument depends on whether it has been designated and qualiÑes as part of a hedging relationship and
further, on the type of hedging relationship. eBay will adopt SFAS No. 133, as amended, in its quarter ending
March 31, 2001. Upon adoption, the cumulative eÅect to net income and other comprehensive income of this
change in accounting method is a gain of approximately $650,000 and a loss of approximately $2.6 million,
respectively, net of tax.
In July 2000, the EITF reached a consensus with respect to EITF Issue No. 99-19, ""Reporting Revenue
Gross as a Principal versus Net as an Agent.'' EITF 99-19 addressed whether a company should report
revenue based on the gross amount billed to a customer because it has earned revenue from the sale of the
goods or services or the net amount retained (that is, the amount billed to the customer less the amount paid
to a supplier) because it has earned a commission or fee. eBay adopted EITF 99-19, and such adoption did not
have a material impact on its consolidated Ñnancial statements.
In March 2000, the EITF reached a consensus on EITF Issue No. 00-14, ""Accounting for Certain Sales
Incentives.'' This consensus provides guidance on the recognition, measurement, and income statement
classiÑcation of sales incentives which are oÅered voluntarily by a vendor without charge to customers that can
be used in, or that are exercisable by a customer as a result of, a single exchange transaction. eBay evaluated
the provisions of the guidance in conjunction with its policies and concluded that eBay is in compliance with
this pronouncement.
In July 2000, the EITF issued EITF Issue No. 00-15, ""ClassiÑcation in the Statement of Cash Flows of
the Income Tax BeneÑt Realized by a Company upon Employee Exercise of a Non-qualiÑed Stock Option.''
EITF 00-15 addresses the cash Öow statement presentation of the tax beneÑt associated with nonqualiÑed
stock options. eBay receives an income tax deduction for the diÅerence between the exercise price and the
market price of a nonqualiÑed stock option upon exercise by the employee. EITF 00-15 concludes that the
income tax beneÑt realized by eBay upon an employee exercise of stock options should be classiÑed in the
operating section of the cash Öow statement. The EITF is eÅective for all quarters ending after July 20, 2000.
eBay adopted EITF 00-15, and such adoption did not have a material impact on its consolidated Ñnancial
statements.
In July 2000, the EITF issued EITF Issue No. 00-16, ""Recognition and Measurement of Employer
Payroll Taxes on Employee Stock-Based Compensation.'' This Issue addresses how an entity should account
63
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
eBay Inc.
for employer payroll taxes on stock-based compensation under Accounting Principles Board Opinion No. 25,
""Accounting for Stock Issued to Employees,'' and SFAS No. 123, ""Accounting for Stock-Based Compensa-
tion.'' This Issue addresses eBay's timing for recognizing the payroll tax liability and requires that this liability
be recognized when the tax obligation becomes due and payable. eBay adopted EITF 00-16 eÅective July 31,
2000 and such adoption did not have a material impact on its consolidated Ñnancial statements.
Note 2 Ì Net Income per Share:
eBay computes net income per share in accordance with SFAS No. 128, ""Earnings per Share.'' Under
the provisions of SFAS No. 128, basic net income per share is computed by dividing the net income available
to common stockholders for the period by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during
the period. Diluted net income per share is computed by dividing the net income for the period by the
weighted average number of common and common equivalent shares outstanding during the period. Common
equivalent shares, composed of unvested, restricted common stock and incremental common shares issuable
upon the exercise of stock options and warrants and upon conversion of Series A and Series B Convertible
Preferred Stock, are included in diluted net income per share to the extent such shares are dilutive.
The following table sets forth the computation of basic and diluted net income per share for the periods
indicated (in thousands, except per share amounts):
Year Ended December 31,
1999
2000
1998
Numerator:
Net income ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Accretion of Series B Mandatorily Redeemable
Convertible Preferred Stock to redemption value ÏÏÏÏÏ
Net income available to common stockholders ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
$
7,273
$
9,567
$ 48,294
(46)
7,227
$
Ì
9,567
$
Ì
$ 48,294
Denominator:
Weighted average shares ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Weighted average unvested common shares subject to
repurchase agreements ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Denominator for basic calculationÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Weighted average eÅect of dilutive securities:
Series A Preferred Stock ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Series B Preferred Stock ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Warrants ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Weighted average common shares subject to
repurchase agreements ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Employee stock options ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Denominator for diluted calculation ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
183,284
255,806
266,826
(79,156)
104,128
(38,132)
217,674
(15,050)
251,776
22,074
16,108
2,197
79,156
9,856
233,519
Ì
Ì
7
Ì
Ì
93
38,132
17,220
273,033
15,050
13,427
280,346
Net income per share:
Basic ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Diluted ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
$
$
0.07
0.03
$
$
0.04
0.04
$
$
0.19
0.17
Note 3 Ì Acquisitions:
Jump Incorporated
EÅective June 30, 1998, eBay acquired all the outstanding shares of Jump Incorporated (""Jump''), an
online personal trading community. The total purchase price of approximately $2.3 million consisted of
64
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
eBay Inc.
857,088 shares of eBay's common stock with an estimated fair value of approximately $2.0 million and other
acquisition related expenses of approximately $335,000, consisting primarily of payments for non-compete
agreements totaling approximately $208,000 and legal and other professional fees. Of the total purchase price,
approximately $150,000 was allocated to in-process technology and was immediately charged to operations
because such in-process technology had not reached the stage of technological feasibility at the acquisition
date and had no alternative future use. The remainder of the purchase price was allocated to net tangible
liabilities assumed ($31,000) and intangible assets, including completed technology ($500,000), customer list
($1.5 million), covenants not to compete ($208,000) and goodwill ($24,000). The intangible assets are being
amortized over their estimated useful lives of 8 to 24 months.
Kruse International
On May 18, 1999, eBay acquired Kruse, Inc. (d/b/a Kruse International) and all aÇliated entities under
common control including: Auburn Cordage, Inc., ACD Auto Sales, Inc., Reppert School of Auctioneering,
Inc. and Classic Advertising & Promotions, Inc., each an Indiana corporation, and Kruse Montana, Inc., a
Montana corporation (collectively, ""Kruse'' or the ""Kruse Companies'').
Kruse International was founded in 1971 and operated as a sole proprietorship until it was incorporated in
the state of Indiana in August 1986. The Kruse Companies conduct auctions, perform appraisal services and
auctioneer training for classic car auctions in various locations in the United States, England, Germany and
the Netherlands.
The aggregate consideration exchanged for the acquisition was 1,574,624 shares of eBay common stock
for all shares of capital stock of the Kruse Companies. The acquisition has been accounted for as a pooling of
interests.
Billpoint
On May 25, 1999, eBay acquired Billpoint, Inc. (""Billpoint''). Billpoint has developed a centralized,
turnkey authorization, billing and payment fulÑllment solution that permits individuals and small merchants to
accept credit cards as payment for Internet-based sales transactions. Billpoint's service is now being made
available to eBay's users, providing the ability to accept credit cards for payment.
In connection with the acquisition, eBay issued 1,048,264 shares of eBay common stock to the existing
Billpoint shareholders as consideration for all shares of capital stock, and all options and warrants to purchase
shares of common stock of Billpoint outstanding immediately prior to the consummation of the merger were
converted into options and warrants to purchase shares of eBay common stock. The acquisition has been
accounted for as a pooling of interests.
ButterÑelds
On May 28, 1999, eBay acquired ButterÑelds Auctioneers Corporation, a Delaware corporation and all
aÇliated entities under common control including ButterÑeld Credit Corporation Inc., 111 Potrero Partners,
LLC and HBJ Partners, LLC (collectively ""ButterÑelds'').
ButterÑelds was established in 1865, incorporated in California in July 1970 and reincorporated in the
state of Delaware in March 1999. ButterÑelds conducts auctions and performs appraisal services of Ñne art,
jewelry, antiques and other collectibles primarily in San Francisco, Los Angeles and Chicago.
ButterÑeld Credit Corporation Inc. (""BCCI'') is a wholly-owned subsidiary of ButterÑelds and is
incorporated in California. BCCI operates as a Ñnancing corporation whose sole purpose is serving
ButterÑeld's clients.
65
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
eBay Inc.
111 Potrero Partners, LLC (""111 Potrero'') is a limited liability corporation organized in May 1996.
111 Potrero owns several commercial properties located in San Francisco and Los Angeles, which are
currently occupied by ButterÑelds and third parties.
HBJ Partners, LLC (""HBJ'') is a limited liability corporation organized in California in September
1996. HBJ owns several commercial properties located in San Francisco, which are currently occupied by
ButterÑelds and third parties. HBJ also has general partnership interests in 17600 Santa Fe Avenue Partners
and 2959 Victoria Street. As of December 31, 2000, ownership interests in the above partnerships were 94%
and 85%, respectively.
The aggregate consideration exchanged for the acquisition was 2,654,740 shares of eBay common stock.
The acquisition has been accounted for as a pooling of interests. In April 1999, ButterÑelds withdrew its
registration statement for its initial public oÅering. Accordingly, in the second quarter of 1999, eBay recorded
a charge of approximately $2.6 million related to the costs of the withdrawn oÅering.
alando.de.ag
On June 15, 1999, eBay acquired all of the outstanding stock of alando.de.ag (""alando''). alando began
operations on February 19, 1999 and is Germany's leading online personal trading community. The aggregate
consideration exchanged for the acquisition was 632,000 shares of eBay common stock. The acquisition has
been accounted for as a pooling of interests.
Half.com
On July 11, 2000, eBay acquired Half.com. Half.com was incorporated in Pennsylvania in June 1999 and
provides a Ñxed-price, person-to-person e-commerce site that allows people to buy and sell previously owned
goods at discounted prices.
In connection with the merger, eBay issued, or reserved for issuance, a total of approximately 5,484,000
shares of eBay common stock to Half.com's existing shareholders, option holders and warrant holders as
consideration for all shares of capital stock, options and warrants of Half.com held immediately prior to
consummation of the merger. The merger has been accounted for as a pooling-of-interests.
The results of operations previously reported by eBay and Half.com are summarized as follows (in
thousands):
Net revenues:
eBay ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Half.comÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Net income (loss):
eBay ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Half.comÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Six Months Ended
June 30,
1999
2000
Year Ended
December 31,
1999
$92,280
Ì
$92,280
$ 4,581
Ì
$ 4,581
$183,152
887
$184,039
$224,724
Ì
$224,724
$ 17,878
(8,661)
9,217
$
$ 10,828
(1,261)
9,567
$
There were no adjustments required to conform the accounting policies of Half.com to those of eBay.
See Subsequent Events Ì Note 16.
66
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
eBay Inc.
Note 4 Ì Segment Information:
EÅective January 1, 1998, eBay adopted the provisions of SFAS No. 131, ""Disclosures about Segments
of an Enterprise and Related Information.'' SFAS No. 131 establishes the standards for reporting information
about operating segments in annual Ñnancial statements and requires that certain selected information about
operating segments be reported in interim Ñnancial reports. It also establishes standards for related disclosures
about products and services and geographic areas. Operating segments are deÑned as components of an
enterprise about which separate Ñnancial information is evaluated regularly by the chief operating deci-
sionmaker in order to allocate resources and in assessing performance.
eBay has identiÑed two primary reporting segments: online trading services and oÉine, traditional auction
services. The online trading services segment consists of the operations of eBay, Billpoint, alando.de.ag and
Half.com. The oÉine, traditional auction segment consists of the current operations of ButterÑelds and Kruse.
Segment selection is based upon the internal organization structure, the manner in which these operations
are managed and their performance evaluated by management, the availability of separate Ñnancial
information, and overall materiality considerations. Segment performance measurement is based on operating
income before income taxes, amortization of intangibles, stock-based compensation, payroll expense on
employee stock options and merger related costs. The operating information for the two segments identiÑed
are as follows (in thousands):
Year Ended December 31, 1998
Online
OÉine
Consolidated
Net revenues from external customers ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
$47,352
$38,777
$ 86,129
Operating income before amortization of intangibles, stock-
based compensation, payroll expense on employee stock
options and merger related costs ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Interest and other income, net ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Interest expense ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Amortization of intangibles, stock-based compensation,
payroll expense on employee stock options and merger
related costs ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
$11,573
908
(39)
$ 6,678
891
(2,152)
$ 18,251
1,799
(2,191)
(5,486)
Ì
(5,486)
Income before income taxes, minority interest and equity
interest in partnership incomeÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
$ 6,956
Total assets ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
$92,545
$ 5,417
$56,991
$ 12,373
$149,536
Year Ended December 31, 1999
OÉine
Consolidated
Online
Net revenues from external customers ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
$182,533
$42,191
$224,724
Operating income before amortization of intangibles,
stock-based compensation, payroll expense on employee
stock options and merger related costs ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Interest and other income, net ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Interest expense ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Amortization of intangibles, stock-based compensation,
payroll expense on employee stock options and merger
related costs ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Income (loss) before income taxes, minority interest and
$
3,970
23,624
(504)
$ 3,188
209
(1,815)
$
7,158
23,833
(2,319)
(8,697)
(1,834)
(10,531)
equity interest in partnership income ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
$ 18,393
$ (252)
$ 18,141
Total assets ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
$873,122
$96,703
$969,825
67
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
eBay Inc.
Year Ended December 31, 2000
OÉine
Online
Consolidated
Net revenues from external customers ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
$ 391,952
$39,472
$ 431,424
Operating income (loss) before amortization of
intangibles, stock-based compensation, payroll expense
on employee stock options and merger related costs ÏÏ
Interest and other income, net ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Interest expenseÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Amortization of intangibles, stock-based compensation,
payroll expense on employee stock options and merger
related costs ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Income (loss) before income taxes, minority interest and
equity interest in partnership income ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
$
49,767
45,642
(1,071)
$(2,312)
695
(2,303)
$
47,455
46,337
(3,374)
(11,464)
(997)
(12,461)
$
82,874
$(4,917)
$
77,957
Total assets ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
$1,084,909
$97,494
$1,182,403
Note 5 Ì Investments:
At December 31, 1999 and 2000, short and long-term investments were classiÑed as available-for-sale
securities and are reported at fair value as follows (in thousands):
December 31, 1999
Gross
Amortized
Cost
Gross
Unrealized
Gains
Gross
Unrealized
Losses
Short-term investments:
Municipal bonds and notes ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Corporate bonds ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Government securities ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Other ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Total ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
$ 75,442
44,356
59,820
2,034
$181,652
Long-term investments:
Municipal bonds and notes ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Corporate bonds ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Government securities ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Equity instruments ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Total ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
$322,144
2,353
28,112
12,012
$364,621
$ Ì
Ì
Ì
Ì
$ Ì
$ Ì
Ì
Ì
13,210
$13,210
$
(55)
(5)
(492)
(14)
$ (566)
$(3,425)
(26)
(392)
Ì
$(3,843)
Estimated
Fair Value
$ 75,387
44,351
59,328
2,020
$181,086
$318,719
2,327
27,720
25,222
$373,988
68
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
eBay Inc.
December 31, 2000
Gross
Amortized
Cost
Gross
Unrealized
Gains
Gross
Unrealized
Losses
Short-term investments:
Municipal bonds and notes ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Corporate bonds ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Government securities ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Total ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
$112,488
21,193
219,674
$353,355
Long-term investments:
Municipal bonds and notes ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Government securities ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Equity instruments and other ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Total ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
$141,861
151,732
54,505
$348,098
$ 15
70
842
$927
$ 69
694
Ì
$763
$ (116)
Ì
Ì
$ (116)
$ (269)
(81)
(3,924)
$(4,274)
Estimated
Fair Value
$112,387
21,263
220,516
$354,166
$141,661
152,345
50,581
$344,587
In 2000, restricted cash of $126,390 is included within long-term investments.
The estimated fair value of short and long-term investments classiÑed by date of contractual maturity are
as follows (in thousands):
Due within one year or less ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Due after one year through two yearsÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Due after two years through three yearsÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Restricted cash and investments expiring in less than Ñve years ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Equity investments ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
December 31,
2000
$354,166
191,873
5,028
126,390
21,296
$698,753
Note 6 Ì Balance Sheet Components:
December 31,
1999
2000
(in thousands)
Cash and cash equivalents:
Cash and money market fundsÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Securities and cash equivalents ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Total ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
$ 57,536
164,265
$221,801
$ 75,338
126,535
$201,873
Accounts receivable, net:
Accounts receivable ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Allowance for doubtful accounts ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Allowance for authorized credits ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Total ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
$ 44,940
(6,722)
(1,680)
$ 36,538
$ 81,293
(12,122)
(2,008)
$ 67,163
69
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
eBay Inc.
Write-oÅs against the allowance for doubtful accounts were $562,000, $4.5 million and $12.5 million in
the years ended December 31, 1998, 1999 and 2000, respectively.
December 31,
1999
2000
(in thousands)
Property and equipment, net:
Land and buildings ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Computer equipment and software ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Leasehold improvements ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Furniture and Ñxtures ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Vehicles and other ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Total ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Accumulated depreciation and amortizationÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Total ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
$ 61,274
65,268
6,510
8,844
2,529
144,425
(32,223)
$112,202
$ 60,575
113,917
7,193
12,114
379
194,178
(69,017)
$125,161
Within computer equipment and software, eBay capitalized $5.8 million and $9.4 million and recorded
amortization expense of $2.4 million and $6.6 million for site related software during the years ended
December 31, 1999 and 2000, respectively.
Total depreciation expense for years ended December 31, 1998, 1999 and 2000 totaled $1.7 million,
$18.6 million and $36.7 million, respectively.
December 31,
1999
2000
(in thousands)
Intangible assets and other assets, net:
Intangible assets ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Accumulated amortization ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
SubtotalÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Other assets ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Total ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
$12,601
(3,789)
8,812
3,877
$12,689
$18,234
(5,171)
13,063
10,236
$23,299
Accrued expenses:
Accrued compensation and related beneÑts ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Advertising accrualsÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Professional fees ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Other accruals ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Total ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
$ 5,826
4,918
3,990
17,439
$32,173
$10,320
13,258
5,853
31,451
$60,882
Other comprehensive income
Unrealized gain/(loss) on investments ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Foreign currency translation adjustment ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Deferred tax asset/(liability) on unrealized gains and losses ÏÏÏ
Total ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
$ 8,883
(58)
(3,731)
$ 5,094
$(2,700)
745
1,080
$ (875)
December 31,
1999
2000
(in thousands)
70
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
eBay Inc.
Note 7 Ì Debt:
Notes payable
Notes payable consists of amounts payable to various Ñnancial institutions, which are collateralized by
speciÑc properties and are detailed as follows:
Mortgage notes, prime plus 1%, due September 30, 2002 ÏÏÏÏÏ
Mortgage notes, LIBOR plus 1.75%, due July 15, 2001 ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Mortgage notes, 8.25%, due November 15, 2001 ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Mortgage notes, 8.175% variable, due August 1, 2023 ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Convertible note, prime plus 1%, due April 3, 2000 ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Loan on foreclosed property, prime plus 2%, due August 9,
2015 ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
6% Ó 10.5% notes, due October 2000 through January 2003ÏÏÏÏ
SubtotalÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Less: Current portionÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Long-term portion ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
December 31,
1999
2000
(in thousands)
$
1,797
3,501
11,980
9,300
3,496
$
1,689
3,351
11,812
9,300
Ì
549
176
30,799
(15,781)
524
Ì
26,676
(15,272)
$ 15,018
$ 11,404
Mortgage notes outstanding are on property owned by ButterÑelds. The notes have variable interest rates,
payment terms and are collateralized by certain land, buildings and improvements. Generally, the principal
and interest are paid on a monthly basis.
The mortgage notes bearing an interest rate of 8.25% were originally due on May 15, 2000. The maturity
was extended to November 15, 2001.
The convertible note was related to Half.com and was used as a bridge loan until funding was received
from their preferred stock issuance. The convertible note was converted to Half.com's preferred stock in
January 2000.
Minimum annual repayments on these notes at December 31, 2000 are as follows (in thousands):
Year ending
December 31,
2001 ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
2002 ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
2003 ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
2004 ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
2005 ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Thereafter ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Total
$15,272
1,612
35
40
44
9,673
$26,676
Note 8 Ì Leasing Arrangements:
eBay, through its ButterÑelds subsidiary, leases certain land and buildings. These leases are classiÑed as
operating leases that expire at various intervals between 2001 and 2013. Certain of these leases contain
renewal options and have escalation clauses tied to changes in the Consumer Price Index. Under the terms of
the leases, the tenants are generally responsible for the payment of property taxes, insurance and maintenance
costs related to the leased property.
71
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
eBay Inc.
Property under operating leases and property held for lease
The following schedule provides a summary of eBay's investment in property held for lease by major
classes, in thousands:
Land and building ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Building improvementsÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Less: Accumulated depreciation ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
December 31,
1999
2000
$33,500
9,801
43,301
(6,986)
$36,315
$ 44,095
11,990
56,085
(12,029)
$ 44,056
The following is a schedule by year of minimum future rental income on noncancellable operating leases
as of December 31, 2000 (in thousands):
Year ending
December 31,
2001 ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
2002 ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
2003 ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
2004 ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
2005 ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Thereafter ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Total minimum future rentals ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Total
$ 5,342
5,226
5,245
5,201
5,187
25,768
$51,969
Note 9 Ì Purchase and Sale of Properties or Property Interests:
From time to time and in the ordinary course of business, eBay elects to sell properties previously held for
lease, or purchase properties or property interests for future rental. eBay views its rental properties as sources
of income, which may be derived either from property rental, or potentially the sale of the property. In
November 1999, eBay sold its Curson property for $350,000 in cash and recognized a gain of $182,000.
During 1999 and 2000 eBay increased its ownership percentage in various property partnerships acquired
in the merger with ButterÑelds. eBay became a majority owner in some properties in which it had previously
held a minority interest.
See Subsequent Events Ì Note 16
Note 10 Ì Commitments and Contingencies:
Litigation
On September 1, 1999, eBay was served with a lawsuit Ñled by Randall Stoner, on behalf of the general
public, in San Francisco Superior Court (No. 305666). The lawsuit alleged that eBay violated Section 17200
of the California Business & Professions Code, a statute that relates to unfair competition, based upon the
listing of ""bootleg'' or ""pirate'' recordings by eBay's users, allegedly in violation of California penal statutes
relating to the sale of unauthorized audio recordings. The lawsuit sought declaratory and injunctive relief,
restitution and legal fees. eBay Ñled a general demurrer which was sustained by the court with leave to amend.
The plaintiÅ subsequently Ñled an amended complaint. eBay Ñled a motion for summary judgement. On
November 7, 2000, eBay's motion for summary judgement was granted.
72
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
eBay Inc.
On December 10, 1999, eBay sued Bidder's Edge, Inc. in the United States District Court for the
Northern District of California alleging trespass, unfair competition, violation of the computer fraud and abuse
act, misappropriation, false advertising, trademark dilution, injury to business reputation, interference with
prospective economic advantage, and unjust enrichment. On February 7, 2000, Bidder's Edge denied these
claims and counterclaimed against eBay alleging that eBay violated the antitrust laws by monopolizing or
attempting to monopolize a market, that competed unfairly, and interfered with Bidder's Edge's contract with
eBay magazine. Bidder's Edge sought treble damages, an injunction and its fees and costs. On May 24, 2000,
the court granted us a preliminary injunction against the use by Bidder's Edge of robotic means to copy eBay's
site. See Subsequent Events Ì Note 16.
On April 25, 2000, eBay was served with a lawsuit, Gentry et. al. v. eBay, Inc. et. al, Ñled in Superior
Court in San Diego, California. The lawsuit was Ñled on behalf of a purported class of eBay users who
purchased allegedly forged autographed sports memorabilia on eBay. The lawsuit claims eBay was negligent in
permitting certain named (and other unnamed) defendants to sell allegedly forged autographed sports
memorabilia on eBay. In addition, the lawsuit claims eBay violated Section 17200 and a section of the
California Civil Code which prohibits ""dealers'' from selling sports memorabilia without a ""CertiÑcate of
Authenticity.'' See Subsequent Events Ì Note 16.
From time to time, eBay is involved in disputes which have arisen in the ordinary course of business.
Management believes that the ultimate resolution of these disputes will not have a material adverse impact on
eBay's consolidated Ñnancial positions, results of operations or cash Öows.
Lease arrangement
On March 1, 2000, eBay entered into a Ñve-year lease for general oÇce facilities located in San Jose,
California. Payments under this lease are based on a spread over the London Interbank OÅering Rate
(""LIBOR'') applied to the $126.4 million cost of the facility funded by the lessor. eBay has an option to renew
the lease for up to two Ñve-year extensions subject to speciÑc conditions. Under the terms of the lease
agreement, eBay was required to place $126.4 million of cash and investment securities as collateral for the
term of the lease. The cash and investment securities are restricted as to their withdrawal from the third party
trustee and are classiÑed as long-term restricted cash and investments in the accompanying balance sheet.
eBay entered into two interest rate swaps on June 19 and July 20, 2000 totaling $95 million to reduce the
impact of changes in interest rates on a portion of the Öoating rate operating lease for our facilities. The
interest rate swaps allow eBay to receive Öoating rate receipts based on LIBOR in exchange for making Ñxed
rate payments which eÅectively amends the interest rate exposure on our operating lease from a Öoating rate
to a Ñxed rate on $95 million of the total $126.4 million operating lease. The interest rate swaps have been
accounted for under the accrual method of accounting. The fair value of the interest rate swaps on
December 31, 2000 was a $4.4 million loss based on discounted cash Öows.
73
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
eBay Inc.
eBay leases property and equipment under non-cancelable operating leases that expire at various dates.
Future minimum rental payments under non-cancelable operating leases subsequent to December 31, 2000,
are as follows (in thousands):
Year ending
December 31,
2001 ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
2002 ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
2003 ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
2004 ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
2005 ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Thereafter ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Total minimum lease payments ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Operating
Leases
$10,383
10,356
10,351
10,473
2,269
52
$43,884
Rent expense in the years ended December 31, 1998, 1999 and 2000 totaled $672,000, $3.9 million and
$4.8 million, respectively.
Advertising
GO.com
On February 6, 2000, eBay entered into a four-year marketing agreement with GO.com. In accordance
with the agreement, GO.com provided eBay with online and oÉine promotion, eBay and GO.com developed a
co-branded version of the eBay service and both companies developed a site featuring merchandise from
GO.com aÇliates. These aÇliates include but are not limited to The Walt Disney Company, ESPN and ABC.
In consideration for this agreement, eBay will pay a minimum of $30 million to GO.com over the four-year
term. See Subsequent Events Ì Note 16.
NEC
On February 17, 2000, eBay Japan Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of eBay, entered into a shareholder
and marketing services agreement with NEC Corporation. In accordance with the shareholder agreement,
NEC acquired 30% of eBay Japan and eBay retained the remaining 70% interest in eBay Japan. eBay will
continue to consolidate eBay Japan due to a majority ownership interest and will reÖect a minority interest for
the equity interest of NEC.
In accordance with the marketing agreement, NEC provided marketing and services to eBay Japan in an
eÅort to deliver a minimum level of conÑrmed registered users. As compensation for the marketing and other
services performed by NEC, eBay Japan paid NEC an annual up-front fee of approximately $1.5 million. The
Ñrst payment was made in April, 2000, and additional payments will be payable on the anniversary of such
date in each of the subsequent three years as long as the contract is in eÅect. If NEC is unable to deliver the
minimum level of conÑrmed registered users, then eBay will have the right to repurchase shares of eBay Japan
from NEC.
AutoTrader.com
On March 6, 2000, eBay and Autotrader.com LLC (""Autotrader'') entered into a marketing and services
agreement whereby eBay and Autotrader developed a co-branded site, and Autotrader will refer customers
desiring an auction pricing format to eBay for a referral fee. Under the terms of the agreement, eBay has
committed to provide certain marketing expenditures for the promotion of the eBay service and additional
automobile related services oÅered by Autotrader. In consideration for these expenditures, eBay is committed
to pay $29 million over the 3.5-year term.
74
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
eBay Inc.
Under the agreement, eBay acquired 1,439,040, approximately 3.3% of the equity of Autotrader for
approximately $11.0 million in cash or $7.63 per unit.
AOL
In March 1999, eBay expanded the scope of its strategic relationship with AOL. Under the amended
agreement, eBay was granted a prominent presence featuring it as the preferred provider of person-to-person
trading services on AOL's proprietary services (both domestic and international), AOL.com, Digital Cities,
ICQ, CompuServe (both domestic and international) and Netscape. In addition, eBay has developed or will
develop a co-branded version of its service for each AOL property which will prominently feature each party's
brand. AOL will be entitled to all advertising revenue from the co-branded site. eBay will pay $75 million over
the four-year term of the contract. eBay is recognizing these fees as sales and marketing expense over the
greater of: i) the ratio of the number of impressions delivered over the total number of contracted impressions,
or ii) a straight-line basis beginning with the initial delivery of impressions and extending over the term of the
contract. At December 31, 2000, eBay had advanced $37.5 million under the amended agreement, and had
recognized $28.5 million as advertising expense commencing with the launch of the co-branded program and
delivery of advertising impressions.
In conjunction with the expanded strategic relationship, AOL terminated its original contract with eBay
in August 1999. As a result, the remaining $8.0 million commitment associated with the original agreement
was waived. AOL continued to deliver impressions under the original agreement through August 1999.
Minimum auction guarantees
From time to time eBay, through its ButterÑelds subsidiary, guarantees the minimum net proceeds with
respect to the sale of properties at future auctions. Such guaranteed proceeds are often advanced to the
consignor prior to the completion of the auction. eBay is responsible for the shortfall, if any, between the
guaranteed minimum proceeds and the actual net proceeds upon the completion of the auction. Losses, if any,
are recognized at the conclusion of the auction. In 2000, ButterÑelds had entered into two such agreements
with guaranteed net proceeds of $1.25 million and $2.0 million. The $2.0 million agreement is shared with
another auction service, half of which is guaranteed by each party. In June and October 2000, the minimum
guarantee auctions took place, and at the conclusion of the auctions, the minimum net proceed amounts were
not obtained. ButterÑelds recognized an insigniÑcant loss for the shortfall between the minimum proceeds it
guaranteed and the actual net proceeds received.
Note 11 Ì Related Party Transactions:
In February 2000, a subsidiary of eBay entered into a service contract with a related party whereby the
subsidiary agreed to provide services with respect to the design of the related party's system. The related party
remitted payment totaling $1.5 million to the subsidiary of which $35,000 was treated as a cost reimbursement
for product development expenses, and the remainder was accounted for as revenue. Both amounts are
included in the accompanying consolidated statement of income.
In February 2000, a subsidiary of eBay entered in to a marketing agreement with a related party. Total
payments under this agreement were approximately $1.5 million.
In July 2000, eBay purchased shares representing beneÑcial interest of less than Ñve percent of a
company aÇliated with a director of eBay. In connection with the transaction, eBay received a warrant that
would, if exercised, increase eBay's beneÑcial interest to less than ten percent. eBay recorded the investment
at cost. Separately, eBay entered into a commercial agreement whereby eBay provided approximately
$1.3 million of advertising services to the related party. The amount is included in the accompanying
consolidated statements of income.
75
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
eBay Inc.
In July 2000, eBay had also entered into an agreement whereby eBay purchased shares representing
beneÑcial interest of less than Ñve percent of a company aÇliated with a director of eBay. Additionally, eBay
received a warrant that, if exercised, eBay's beneÑcial interest would remain at less than Ñve percent. eBay
recorded the investment at cost. Separately, eBay entered into a commercial agreement whereby eBay
provided approximately $1.3 million of advertising services to the related party. The amount is included in the
accompanying consolidated statements of income.
In April 2000, eBay entered into an agreement with a company that is aÇliated with a director of eBay,
eBay recorded approximately $4.1 million in income relating to advertising services. eBay also entered into an
agreement whereby eBay purchased shares representing less than one percent of the related party's total shares
outstanding. Additionally, eBay received a warrant that, if exercised, eBay s beneÑcial interest would remain at
less than one percent.
All contracts with related parties are at rates and terms that management believes are comparable with
those entered into with independent third parties.
Note receivable from stockholders
At December 31, 1999, eBay held a note receivable from an employee totaling $11,000 which was fully
paid at December 31, 2000. Note receivable from stockholders represented amounts owed to eBay from the
exercise of stock options. These full recourse notes were collateralized by common stock and interest was at a
rate of 8% per annum.
Notes receivable from eBay executive oÇcers
At December 31, 2000, eBay held notes receivable from two executive oÇcers of eBay totaling
$3.2 million. The promissory note held by one oÇcer of eBay as of December 31, 1999 was amended in 2000.
The amended note bears interest at a rate of 6.37% per annum as compared to the previous rate of 5.43% and
remains collateralized by a Deed of Trust, held by eBay. The other note bears interest at a rate of 6.40% per
annum and is collateralized by a Deed of Trust, held by eBay. Both notes' outstanding principal and interest
are due and payable by 2004.
Note 12 Ì Preferred Stock:
Preferred Stock
eBay is authorized, subject to limitations prescribed by Delaware law, to provide for the issuance of
Preferred Stock in one or more series, to establish from time to time the number of shares included within
each series, to Ñx the rights, preferences and privileges of the shares of each wholly unissued series and any
qualiÑcations, limitations or restrictions thereon, and to increase or decrease the number of shares of any such
series (but not below the number of shares of such series then outstanding) without any further vote or action
by the stockholders. At December 31, 1999 and 2000 there were 10,000,000 shares of Preferred Stock
authorized for issuance, and no shares issued or outstanding.
Note 13 Ì Common Stock:
eBay's CertiÑcate of Incorporation, as amended, authorizes eBay to issue 900,000,000 shares of common
stock. A portion of the shares outstanding are subject to repurchase by eBay over a four-year period from the
earlier of the issuance date or employee hire date, as applicable. At December 31, 1999 and 2000, there were
25,356,000 and 7,509,000 shares, respectively, subject to repurchase rights at an average price of $0.06 and
$0.12, respectively, per share.
76
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
eBay Inc.
In June 1998, in connection with the appointment of two outside directors, eBay sold an aggregate of
1,287,000 shares of common stock to two directors and realized net proceeds of $2.0 million. eBay recognized
the $429,000 excess of the estimated fair value of the stock over the price paid by the two directors as general
and administrative expense in 1998.
At December 31, 2000, eBay had reserved 18,114,107 and 1,005,652 shares of common stock for future
issuance for the exercise of options under the stock option plans and issuance of shares under the employee
stock purchase plan, respectively.
Note 14 Ì Employee BeneÑt Plans:
401(k) Savings Plan
eBay has a savings plan that qualiÑes as a deferred salary arrangement under Section 401(k) of the
Internal Revenue Code (the ""401(k) Plan''). Under the 401(k) Plan, participating employees may defer a
percentage (not to exceed 25%) of their eligible pretax earnings up to the Internal Revenue Service's annual
contribution limit. All employees on the United States payroll of eBay age 21 years or older are eligible to
participate in the 401(k) Plan. eBay had not been required to contribute to the 401(k) Plan but in 1998
elected to match contributions up to a maximum of $1,500 per employee, and committed to matching
contributions to a maximum of $1,500 per employee per year in future periods. As a result, eBay contributed
and expensed $97,000, $856,000 and $1.8 million in the years ended December 31, 1998, 1999 and 2000,
respectively.
As a result of the mergers with eBay in 1999 and 2000, ButterÑelds, Kruse, Billpoint, and Half.com
terminated any existing deÑned savings contribution plans and adopted eBay's 401(k) Plan.
Stock option plans
In December 1996, eBay's Board of Directors adopted the 1996 Stock Option Plan (the ""1996 Plan''), in
June 1997, adopted the 1997 Stock Option Plan (the ""1997 Plan''), in August 1998, adopted the 1998 Stock
Option Plan (the ""1998 Plan''), and in 1999 the 1999 Global Equity Incentive Plan (the ""1999 Plan'')
(collectively, the ""Plans''). The Plans provide for the granting of stock options to employees and consultants
of eBay. Options granted under the Plans may generally be either incentive stock options (""ISOs'') or
nonqualiÑed stock options (""NSOs''). ISOs may be granted only to eBay's employees (including oÇcers and
directors who are also employees). NSOs may be granted to eBay's employees and consultants.
In July 1998, the Board adopted, and in August 1998 eBay's stockholders approved, the 1998 Equity
Incentive Plan (the ""1998 Plan'') and reserved 27,000,000 shares of common stock for issuance thereunder.
The 1998 Plan authorized the award of options, restricted stock awards and stock bonuses (each an ""Award'').
No person will be eligible to receive more than 6,000,000 shares in any calendar year pursuant to Awards
under the 1998 Plan other than a new employee of eBay who will be eligible to receive no more than
12,000,000 shares in the calendar year in which such employee commences employment. Options granted
under the 1998 Plan may be either ISOs or NSOs. ISOs may be granted only to eBay's employees (including
oÇcers and directors who are also employees). NSOs may be granted to eBay's employees, oÇcers, directors,
consultants, independent contractors and advisors of eBay.
In October 1999, the Board of Directors adopted the 1999 Global Equity Incentive Plan (the ""1999
Plan'') and reserved 5,000,000 shares of common stock for issuance thereunder. Options may be granted to
eBay's employees, directors, and consultants and in particular to eBay's employees, directors, and consultants
who are neither citizens nor residents of the United States of America. The 1999 plan was approved by the
stockholders at the Annual Stockholders Meeting in May 2000.
77
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
eBay Inc.
In May 1999, in connection with eBay's acquisition of Billpoint, eBay assumed Billpoint's 1999 Stock
Plan, and all options outstanding under the plan. At the time of the acquisition, the outstanding options
became options to purchase approximately 200,000 shares of eBay common stock. eBay will make no further
option grants under this plan.
Options under the Plans may be granted for periods of up to ten years and at prices no less than 85% of
the estimated fair value of the shares on the date of grant as determined by the Board of Directors, provided,
however, that (i) the exercise price of an ISO may not be less than 100% of the estimated fair value of the
shares on the date of grant, and (ii) the exercise price of an ISO granted to a 10% shareholder may not be less
than 110% of the estimated fair value of the shares on the date of grant. Options under the 1996 and 1997
Plans were exercisable immediately through June 30, 1998, subject to repurchase rights held by eBay, which
lapse over the vesting period, which is generally four years. Options under the 1998 Plan are not immediately
exercisable and generally vest over a period of four years.
The following table summarizes activity under eBay's stock option plans for the years ended Decem-
ber 31, 1998, 1999 and 2000 (shares in thousands):
1998
Year Ended December 31,
1999
2000
Outstanding at beginning of period ÏÏ
Granted ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Exercised ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Cancelled ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Outstanding at end of period ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Shares
23,580
34,574
(38,954)
(707)
18,493
Options exercisable at end of period ÏÏ
740
Weighted average grant date fair
value of options granted during
period ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Weighted
Average
Exercise
Price
$0.01
1.07
0.07
0.83
1.84
0.02
$1.40
Weighted
Average
Exercise
Price
$
1.84
64.59
1.95
38.96
29.73
5.03
Weighted
Average
Exercise
Price
$ 29.73
62.69
6.23
65.41
38.99
27.73
Shares
26,236
9,037
(4,499)
(4,525)
26,249
7,006
Shares
18,493
12,210
(3,551)
(916)
26,236
3,654
$105.03
$103.79
The following table summarizes information about Ñxed stock options outstanding at December 31, 2000,
(shares in thousands):
Options Outstanding at
December 31, 2000
Options Exercisable at
December 31, 2000
Range of
Exercise Prices
2.33
$ 0.01 Ó $
2.50
2.50 Ó
53.83
3.83 Ó
66.63
53.88 Ó
75.19
66.91 Ó
75.25 Ó 116.31
Number of
Shares
Outstanding
Weighted Average
Remaining
Contractual Life
4,865
5,900
4,368
3,444
4,070
3,602
26,249
7.4 years
7.7
9.2
9.2
8.9
8.9
8.4
78
Weighted
Average
Exercise
Price
$ 1.43
2.50
43.96
60.56
71.07
86.57
$38.99
Number of
Shares
Exercisable
1,968
2,228
667
521
944
678
7,006
Weighted
Average
Exercise
Price
$ 1.33
2.50
44.02
62.13
70.38
85.44
$27.73
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
eBay Inc.
Fair value disclosures
eBay calculated the fair value of each option grant on the date of grant using the Black-Scholes option
pricing model as prescribed by SFAS No. 123 using the following assumptions:
Risk-free interest rates ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Expected lives (in years) ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Dividend yield ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Expected volatility ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Year Ended
December 31,
1999
1998
4.9%
3.0
5.5%
3.0
2000
4.9%
3.0
0%
0%
0%
80% 100% 115%
Prior to eBay's initial public oÅering, the fair value of each option grant to employees of eBay was
determined using the minimum value method. Subsequent to the oÅering, the fair value was determined using
the Black-Scholes model. The eÅect of compensation cost on net income and earnings per share are as follows
(in thousands, except per share amounts):
Year ended December 31,
1998
1999
2000
Net income (loss):
As reported ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Pro formaÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
$7,273
$6,497
$
9,567
$(41,357)
$ 48,294
$(90,677)
Net income (loss) per shareÌbasic:
As reported ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Pro formaÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
$ 0.07
$ 0.06
Net income (loss) per shareÌdiluted:
As reported ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Pro formaÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
$ 0.03
$ 0.03
$
$
$
$
0.04
(0.19)
0.04
(0.19)
$
$
$
$
0.19
(0.36)
0.17
(0.36)
1998 Employee Stock Purchase Plan
In July 1998, the Board adopted, and in August 1998 eBay's stockholders approved, the 1998 Employee
Stock Purchase Plan (the ""Purchase Plan'') and reserved 1,800,000 shares of common stock for issuance
thereunder. On each January 1, the aggregate number of shares reserved for issuance under the Purchase Plan
will be increased automatically by the number of shares purchased under the Purchase Plan in the preceding
calendar year. The aggregate number of shares reserved for issuance under the Purchase Plan shall not exceed
9,000,000 shares. The Purchase Plan became eÅective on September 24, 1998, the Ñrst business day on which
price quotations for eBay's common stock were available on the Nasdaq National Market. Employees are
generally eligible to participate in the Purchase Plan if they are customarily employed by eBay for more than
20 hours per week and more than Ñve months in a calendar year and are not (and would not become as a result
of being granted an option under the Purchase Plan) 5% stockholders of eBay. Under the Purchase Plan,
eligible employees may select a rate of payroll deduction between 2% and 10% of their W-2 cash
compensation subject to certain maximum purchase limitations. Each OÅering Period has a maximum
duration of two years (the ""OÅering Period'') and consists of four six-month Purchase Periods (each, a
""Purchase Period''), with the exception of the Ñrst Purchasing Period, which began on September 24, 1998
and ended on April 30, 1999 and two supplemental purchasing period to accommodate merged employees
which began on July 1, 1999 and August 1, 2000 ended on October 31, 1999 and October 31, 2000,
respectively. OÅering Periods and Purchase Periods generally begin on May 1 and November 1. The price at
which the common stock is purchased under the Purchase Plan is 85% of the lesser of the fair market value of
eBay's common stock on the Ñrst day of the applicable oÅering period or on the last day of that purchase
79
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
eBay Inc.
period. The Purchase Plan will terminate after a period of ten years unless terminated earlier as permitted by
the Purchase Plan.
In July 2000, the Board of Directors of Billpoint, eBay's majority-owned subsidiary, adopted Billpoint's
2000 Stock Option and Incentive Plan (the ""Billpoint Plan'') and reserved 4,444,444 shares of Billpoint's
common stock for issuance thereunder. The Billpoint Plan authorized the award of options, restricted stock,
and other stock-based awards. Options granted under the Billpoint Plan may be either be ISOs or NSOs and
may be granted to Billpoint's employees, directors and consultants.
1998 Directors Stock Option Plan
In July 1998, the Board adopted, and in August 1998 eBay's stockholders approved, the 1998 Directors
Stock Option Plan (""Directors Plan'') and reserved a total of 1,200,000 shares of eBay's common stock for
issuance thereunder. Members of the Board who are not employees of eBay, or any parent, subsidiary or
aÇliate of eBay, are eligible to participate in the Directors Plan. The option grants under the Directors Plan
are automatic and nondiscretionary, and the exercise price of the options must be 100% of the fair market
value of the common stock on the date of grant. Each eligible director who Ñrst becomes a member of the
Board on or after September 24, 1998 will initially be granted an option to purchase 180,000 shares (an
""Initial Grant'') on the date such director Ñrst becomes a director. Immediately following each Annual
Meeting of eBay, each eligible director will automatically be granted an additional option to purchase 30,000
shares if such director has served continuously as a member of the Board since the date of such director's
Initial Grant or, if such director was ineligible to receive an Initial Grant, since the EÅective Date. In 1999,
the Board amended the Directors Plan to provide that no such grants would be made to eligible directors at
the 1999 Annual Meeting. The term of such options is ten years, provided that they will terminate seven
months following the date the director ceases to be a director or a consultant of eBay (twelve months if the
termination is due to death or disability). All options granted under the Directors Plan will vest as to 25% of
the shares on the Ñrst anniversary of the date of grant and as to 2.08% of the shares each month thereafter,
provided the optionee continues as a member of the Board or as a consultant to eBay.
Unearned stock-based compensation
In connection with certain stock option and stock warrant grants during the years ended December 31,
1998, 1999 and 2000, eBay recognized unearned compensation totaling $5.8 million, $10.7 million, and
$187,000, respectively. The unearned compensation for 1998 and 1999 is being amortized over the four-year
vesting periods of the options and the one year vesting period of the warrant as applicable. The unearned
compensation for 2000 is related to the Half.com acquisition and was amortized fully in 2000. Amortization
expense recognized during the years ended December 31, 1998, 1999 and 2000 totaled approximately
$3.1 million, $4.8 million and $7.1 million, respectively.
Note 15 Ì Income Taxes:
The components of income (loss) including minority interest and equity interest in partnership income
before income taxes, for the years ended December 31, 1998, 1999 and 2000 are as follows (in thousands):
Year Ended December 31,
1999
2000
1998
United StatesÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Foreign ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
$12,062
Ì
$12,062
$23,013
(4,974)
$18,039
$80,872
147
$81,019
80
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
eBay Inc.
The provision for income taxes is composed of the following (in thousands):
Year Ended December 31,
1999
2000
1998
Current:
Federal ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
State and localÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Foreign ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Deferred:
Federal ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
State and localÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
$2,419
963
Ì
3,382
1,211
196
1,407
$4,789
$10,951
2,683
Ì
13,634
$31,420
8,498
280
40,198
(4,108)
(1,054)
(5,162)
$ 8,472
(5,887)
(1,586)
(7,473)
$32,725
The following is a reconciliation of the diÅerence between the actual provision for income taxes and the
provision computed by applying the federal statutory rate of 34% for 1998 and 35% for 1999 and 2000 to
income before income taxes (in thousands):
Year Ended December 31,
1999
2000
1998
Provision at statutory rate ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Permanent diÅerences:
Foreign income ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
S Corporation (income) loss ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Merger related expensesÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Stock-based compensation ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Nonconsolidated subsidiary loss ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Tax-exempt interest incomeÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Other ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
State taxes, net of federal beneÑt ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
$ 4,255
$ 6,314
$28,357
Ì
(1,848)
384
1,051
Ì
(175)
328
794
$ 4,789
1,741
978
329
(379)
Ì
(4,223)
2,706
1,006
$ 8,472
229
Ì
175
125
665
(4,241)
2,922
4,493
$32,725
81
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
eBay Inc.
Under SFAS No. 109, deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the future tax consequences of
diÅerences between the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities and their respective tax bases using enacted
tax rates in eÅect for the year in which the diÅerences are expected to reverse. SigniÑcant deferred tax assets
and liabilities consist of the following (in thousands):
Deferred tax assets:
Net operating loss ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Accruals and reserves ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Depreciation and amortization ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Net unrealized loss on marketable securities ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Net deferred tax assets ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Valuation allowance ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
December 31,
1999
2000
$ 84,807
4,990
8,798
Ì
98,595
(83,894)
14,701
$ 103,628
9,819
10,313
1,080
124,840
(101,586)
23,254
Deferred tax liabilities:
Net unrealized gains on marketable securities ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
(3,731)
$ 10,970
$
Ì
23,254
As of December 31, 2000, eBay's federal and state net operating loss carryforwards for income tax
purposes were approximately $274.9 million and $128.0 million, respectively. If not utilized, the federal net
operating loss carryforwards will begin to expire in 2019, and the state net operating loss carryforwards will
begin to expire in 2004. Deferred tax assets of approximately $101.6 million at December 31, 2000 pertain to
certain net operating loss carryforwards resulting from the exercise of employee stock options. When
recognized, the tax beneÑt of these losses are accounted for as a credit to additional paid-in capital rather than
a reduction of the income tax provision.
In connection with the acquisition of ButterÑelds by eBay, ButterÑelds' status as an S Corporation was
terminated and became subject to federal and state income taxes. The supplemental pro forma information
below includes an increase to the provisions for income taxes based upon a combined federal and state tax rate
of 42%. This amount approximates the statutory tax rates that would have been applied if ButterÑelds had
been taxed as a C Corporation during the periods prior to its acquisition. Because the acquisition of the
ButterÑelds companies has been accounted for as a pooling of interests, there has been no adjustment to the
historical carrying values of the real estate holdings. However, these properties are subject to increases in tax
basis which will result in a higher depreciable basis for income and property tax purposes. As a result, a
deferred tax asset and a corresponding increase to stockholder's equity of approximately $8.8 million was
recorded in the second quarter of 1999 for the diÅerence between the Ñnancial statement carrying amounts
and the tax basis of the related net assets upon the closing of the transaction.
82
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
eBay Inc.
The pro forma provision for income taxes is composed of the following (in thousands):
Year Ended December 31,
1999
2000
1998
Current:
Federal ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
State and localÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Foreign ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Deferred:
Federal ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
State and localÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
$4,303
1,243
Ì
5,546
1,138
176
1,314
$6,860
$10,267
2,505
Ì
12,772
$31,420
8,498
280
40,198
(4,327)
(1,091)
(5,418)
$ 7,354
(5,887)
(1,586)
(7,473)
$32,725
The following is a reconciliation of the diÅerence between the proforma provision for income taxes and
the provision computed by applying the federal statutory rate of 34% 1998 and 35% for 1999 and 2000 to
income before income taxes (in thousands):
Year Ended December 31,
1999
2000
1998
Provision at statutory rate ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Permanent diÅerences:
Foreign income ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Merger related expensesÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Nonconsolidated subsidiary loss ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Stock based compensation ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Tax exempt interest incomeÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Other ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
State taxes, net of federal beneÑt ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
$4,255
$ 6,314
$28,357
Ì
384
Ì
1,051
(175)
316
1,029
$6,860
1,741
329
Ì
(379)
(4,223)
2,706
866
$ 7,354
229
175
665
125
(4,241)
2,922
4,493
$32,725
Note 16 Ì Subsequent Events-Unaudited:
Litigation
On January 26, 2001, the Court issued a ruling dismissing all claims against eBay in the Gentry et.al
lawsuit. The Court ruled that eBay's business falls within the safe harbor provisions of 47 USC 230, which
grants internet service providers such as eBay with immunity from state claims based on the conduct of third
parties. The Court also noted that eBay was not a ""dealer'' under California law and thus not required to
provide certiÑcates of authenticity with autographs sold over its site by third parties. All counts of the
plaintiÅs' suit were dismissed with prejudice as to eBay. PlaintiÅs appealed this ruling. eBay believes it has
meritorious defenses and intends to defend itself vigorously.
In February 2001, the parties settled the Bidder's Edge lawsuit. All claims by both parties were dismissed,
and Bidder's Edge paid eBay an undisclosed amount.
GO.com
In January 2001, Disney announced that it was dissolving GO.com; consequently, eBay is currently in the
process of renegotiating new contract terms with Disney.
83
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
eBay Inc.
Internet Auction
On February 15, 2001, eBay acquired a majority interest in Internet Auction Co., Ltd., a South Korean
company (""Internet Auction''). Internet Auction introduced person-to-person trading in Korea when it
launched in April 1998. Internet Auction is listed on the KOSDAQ and is expected to continue to trade on
KOSDAQ.
In connection with the acquisition of the majority interest in Internet Auction, eBay acquired 6,274,795
of the outstanding shares, slightly more than 50%, at a Ñxed price of 24,000 Korean won per share or
approximately $120 million in the aggregate. The transaction will be accounted for using the purchase method
of accounting and accordingly, the purchase price will be allocated to the tangible and intangible assets
acquired and the liabilities assumed on the basis of their respective fair values on the acquisition date.
iBazar S.A.
On February 21, 2001, eBay signed an agreement to acquire iBazar S.A. (iBazar). iBazar is based in
Paris and introduced online, person-to-person trading in France when it launched in October 1998. Currently,
iBazar has websites in Belgium, Brazil, France, Italy, the Netherlands, Portugal, Spain, and Sweden.
As consideration for 100% of the outstanding shares of iBazar, eBay will issue approximately 2,250,000
shares of eBay's common stock, subject to a minimum valuation of approximately $66 million and a maximum
valuation of approximately $112 million, based on the value of eBay's stock at closing. The acquisition will be
accounted for as a purchase business combination and is subject to various regulatory approvals.
Sale of property
In March 2001, ButterÑelds sold its Chicago property for approximately $4.5 million in cash.
Note 17 Ì Quarterly Financial Data-Unaudited
The following tables present certain unaudited consolidated quarterly Ñnancial information for each of the
eight quarters ended December 31, 2000. In the opinion of eBay's management, this quarterly information has
been prepared on the same basis as the consolidated Ñnancial statements and includes all adjustments
necessary to present fairly the information for the periods presented. The results of operations for any quarter
are not necessarily indicative of results for the full year or for any future period. The quarterly Ñnancial data
84
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
eBay Inc.
for the quarters presented below have been restated to reÖect the acquisitions of Billpoint, ButterÑelds, Kruse,
alando.de.ag and Half.com which were accounted for as poolings of interest.
Quarterly Financial Data
(unaudited, in thousands, except per share amounts)
March 31
June 30
September 30
December 31
Quarter Ended
2000
Net revenues as previously reported ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ $ 85,753
Adjustment as a result of pooled entities ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
134
Net revenues ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ $ 85,887
Gross proÑt as previously reported ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ $ 62,481
Adjustment as a result of pooled entities ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
23
Gross proÑtÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ $ 62,504
$ 97,399
753
$ 98,152
$ 73,756
192
$ 73,948
Net income as previously reported ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ $
Adjustment as a result of pooled entities ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Net income ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ $
6,288
(4,530)
1,758
$ 11,590
(4,131)
7,459
$
Net income per share-basic as previously reported ÏÏ $
Adjustment as a result of pooled entities ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
0.02
(0.01)
Net income per share-basic* ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ $
0.01
Net income per share-diluted as previously reported ÏÏ $
Adjustment as a result of pooled entities ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
0.02
(0.01)
Net income per share-diluted* ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ $
0.01
$
$
$
$
0.05
(0.02)
0.03
0.04
(0.01)
0.03
$113,377
Ì
$113,377
$ 89,465
Ì
$ 89,465
$ 15,211
Ì
$ 15,211
$
$
$
$
0.06
Ì
0.06
0.05
Ì
0.05
$134,008
Ì
$134,008
$110,054
Ì
$110,054
$ 23,865
Ì
$ 23,865
$
$
$
$
0.09
Ì
0.09
0.09
Ì
0.09
Shares used in per share calculation-basic* ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Shares used in per share calculation-diluted* ÏÏÏÏÏÏ
242,658
281,344
249,828
280,483
255,741
280,297
259,789
279,822
85
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
eBay Inc.
March 31
June 30
September 30
December 31
Quarter Ended
1999
Net revenues as previously reported ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ $ 34,010
Adjustment as a result of pooled entities ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
8,791
Net revenues ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ $ 42,801
Gross proÑt as previously reported ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ $ 28,889
Adjustment as a result of pooled entities ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
5,935
Gross proÑtÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ $ 34,824
Net income as previously reported ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ $
Adjustment as a result of pooled entities ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Net income ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ $
5,896
(2,131)
3,765
Net income per share-basic as previously reported ÏÏ $
Adjustment as a result of pooled entities ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Net income per share-basic* ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ $
Net income per share-diluted as previously reported $
Adjustment as a result of pooled entities ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Net income per share-diluted* ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ $
0.03
(0.01)
0.02
0.02
(0.01)
0.01
$ 49,479
Ì
$ 49,479
$ 38,534
Ì
$ 38,534
$
$
$
$
$
$
816
Ì
816
0.00
Ì
0.00
0.00
Ì
0.00
$ 58,525
Ì
$ 58,525
$ 41,444
Ì
$ 41,444
$
$
$
$
$
$
1,352
(166)
1,186
0.01
Ì
0.01
0.00
Ì
0.00
$ 73,919
Ì
$ 73,919
$ 52,334
Ì
$ 52,334
$
$
$
$
$
$
4,895
(1,095)
3,800
0.02
Ì
0.02
0.02
(0.01)
0.01
Shares used in per share calculation-basic* ÏÏÏÏÏÏÏÏ
Shares used in per share calculation-diluted* ÏÏÏÏÏÏ
195,363
264,654
214,062
273,580
227,975
276,179
233,125
277,844
86
In accordance with the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act, the Registrant has caused this
report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.
SIGNATURES
Date: March 28, 2001
Principal Executive OÇcer:
eBay Inc.
Principal Financial OÇcer and Principal
Accounting OÇcer:
By:
/s/ MARGARET C. WHITMAN
Margaret C. Whitman
President and Chief Executive OÇcer
By:
/s/ RAJIV DUTTA
Rajiv Dutta
Senior Vice President, Chief Financial OÇcer
Additional Directors:
By:
/s/ PIERRE M. OMIDYAR
By:
/s/ PHILIPPE BOURGUIGNON
Pierre M. Omidyar
Founder, Chairman of the Board and Director
Philippe Bourguignon
Director
By:
By:
/s/ SCOTT D. COOK
Scott D. Cook
Director
/s/ DAWN G. LEPORE
Dawn G. Lepore
Director
By:
/s/ ROBERT C. KAGLE
Robert C. Kagle
Director
By:
/s/ HOWARD D. SCHULTZ
Howard D. Schultz
Director
87