Ross Ulbricht teases new marketplace after eBay snub

Ross Ulbricht, the creator of Silk Road, has sparked speculation about launching a new online marketplace after encountering issues with eBay’s verification process.

The libertarian, recently released from prison after a Trump pardon, joked about discrimination and hinted at a potential platform.

Ulbricht, who served nearly 12 years for operating Silk Road—a Bitcoin (CRYPTO:BTC)-powered darknet market generating over $200 million in sales—expressed frustration when eBay delayed verifying his identity for a week while auctioning personal items.

“First time I have felt discriminated against since going free. Gee, maybe I should start my own ecommerce website. What’ll I call it?” he later posted.

The remark, likely tongue-in-cheek, drew attention from crypto advocates.

“We’d be happy to help or at least get you up to speed. DMs are open,” Zeus Bitcoin Wallet stated, offering to assist with Lightning Network integration for faster, cheaper transactions.

“Just do a garage sale this time,” advised Saifedean Ammous, author of sThe Bitcoin Standards, urging caution.

While Ulbricht’s post lacked specifics, it reignited debate about his potential return to e-commerce—this time legally.

Ulbricht’s release in January 2025 followed Trump’s pardon, ending his two life sentences plus 40 years for charges tied to Silk Road.

His platform’s reliance on Bitcoin cemented his crypto community fame, though his criminal record complicates mainstream platform access.

The incident highlights ongoing tensions between legacy e-commerce and figures with controversial pasts.

While Ulbricht’s marketplace idea remain s speculative, it underscores Bitcoin’s role in enabling alternative financial systems—a theme central to Silk Road’s legacy.

Ulbricht’s situation reflects broader challenges for individuals rebuilding lives post-incarceration, particularly in digital spaces.

Whether his tease materialises into a functional platform remains unclear, but the reaction underscores crypto’s enduring appeal as a tool for autonomy.