COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF DIGITAL PAYMENT PLATFORMS AND E-COMMERCE GIANTS: A FIVE-YEAR PERFORMANCE AND STRATEGIC DEVELOPMENT STUDY OF VISA, MASTERCARD, AMAZON, AND EBAY

This study conducts a comprehensive comparative analysis of Visa, Mastercard, Amazon, and eBay, focusing on their financial performance, strategic initiatives, and market expansion over a recent five-year period. The research utilizes annual reports and market data to examine the companies' operational efficiencies and strategic trajectories. The findings reveal Visa and Mastercard's robust financial health, characterized by high operating profit margins, signifying their dominance in the digital payments sector. Amazon's vast revenue yet lower profit margins suggest a deliberate reinvestment strategy for market growth, while eBay shows consistent stability in the e-commerce market. The interplay among these entities underscores a dynamic digital economy where strategic partnerships and competitive innovation are crucial. The study's insights are instrumental for stakeholders, providing a nuanced understanding of how these significant players shape and adapt to the digital marketplace, with broader implications for future research on the role of digital transformation in commerce and finance.