GameStop has proposed a $55.5 billion cash-and-stock takeover of eBay, revealing it already holds a 5% stake in the online marketplace. The deal would make GameStop CEO Ryan Cohen leader of the combined company. Details emerged in a formal disclosure filed Wednesday.
Deal Structure
The acquisition values eBay at $55.5 billion through a mix of cash and GameStop stock. GameStop disclosed its 5% position in eBay as part of the proposal, showing the retailer built the stake ahead of the offer. This isn’t a hostile move—GameStop presented it as a mutual opportunity.
Leadership Transition
Ryan Cohen would run the merged entity after the deal closes. His role as CEO of the combined company is spelled out in the acquisition documents. Cohen’s team has pushed GameStop toward e-commerce and digital strategies since he joined.
Market Reaction
EBay shares jumped 15% on the news while GameStop stock fell 8%. Traders bet the deal could reshape online retail. No regulatory filings for antitrust reviews have been made yet.
Next Moves
EBay’s board must now respond to the unsolicited offer. The company hasn’t issued a statement since the disclosure hit markets. Investors watch for a formal reply within days.
