I really get a kick on how they sell the whole idea as being sooooo good for the buyer and
seller . Although there are some advantages, eBay will never own up to the fact that the main reason is ....more money for them. It is GREED that is driving this....period. Now on every auction they get 1) The listing fee + 2) The final value fee + 3) The PayPal fee (with or without a cc payment) + 4) They will get an additional % on the final value fee for those that add the shipping into the purchase price when "free shipping" is offered.
BUT, that is capitalism, thus the market will ultimately decide if eBay will be stronger or weaker after all these greedy moves.