GameStop launches ambitious $56 billion takeover bid for eBay. The video game retailer offered $125 per share in a cash-and-stock deal, representing a 20% premium to eBay's Friday closing price. GameStop CEO Ryan Cohen stated his vision to transform eBay into a competitor worth hundreds of billions of dollars, rivaling Amazon. eBay shares surged 13% in after-hours trading, though trading below the offer price suggests investor skepticism about deal completion. GameStop has secured $20 billion in debt financing from TD Bank and plans to fund the remainder from its $9.4 billion cash reserves. The proposal requires approval from both companies' boards, regulators, and shareholders. Cohen indicated willingness to pursue a proxy fight with eBay shareholders if the board rejects the offer, positioning himself as CEO of any combined entity.
