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Factors affecting the long-term survival of eBay ventures: a longitudinal study

Author

Listed:
  • Dawn Gregg

    (University of Colorado-Denver)

  • Madhavan Parthasarathy

    (University of Colorado-Denver)

Abstract

With 40% of the world able to access the internet, online marketplaces provide the small entrepreneur with a hitherto incomprehensible opportunity to reach a global audience with very low barriers to entry and low risk. Yet, academic research has not studied the factors unique to online businesses that affect their long-term survival. This study is the first of its kind that does so using data gathered from eBay’s feedback system in 2004, 2009, and 2013. The results present data on the rate of discontinuance of eBay ventures. Further, a logistic regression analysis suggests that unique factors such as venture size, age, and feedback reputation positively influence the likelihood of long-term survival of an eBay venture. Based on these results and the ensuing discussion, implications for researchers and practitioners are provided.

Suggested Citation

  • Dawn Gregg & Madhavan Parthasarathy, 2017. "Factors affecting the long-term survival of eBay ventures: a longitudinal study," Small Business Economics, Springer, vol. 49(2), pages 405-419, August.
  • Handle: RePEc:kap:sbusec:v:49:y:2017:i:2:d:10.1007_s11187-017-9846-x
    DOI: 10.1007/s11187-017-9846-x
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    2. Silva, Ana Teresa & Moro, Sérgio & Rita, Paulo & Cortez, Paulo, 2018. "Unveiling the features of successful eBay smartphone sellers," Journal of Retailing and Consumer Services, Elsevier, vol. 43(C), pages 311-324.

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