From Search Engine Land: “eBay Ads Still Off Google: How Much eBay Traffic & Google Cash Lost“:

The “experiment” continues. It appears that eBay ads on Google are still nowhere to be found, consistent with what eBay spokespeople said last week — that the company would continue its AdWords fast for an indefinite period. As one example, the quintessential eBay search for “collectibles” reveals a top organic link but no paid eBay ad.

As far as I can see, the issue this now opens up has to do with affiliates. eBay affiliates could go in and buy up all the terms eBay is no longer paying for.  If they’re free and open for the picking, why not?

And what could be better for eBay? Someone else pays for your $26 million search advertising and, in turn, you only pay them when you make money.  It would work out well for both parties!

- Matt