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What we collect!
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General Philatelic/Gen. Discussion : bidStart Dead???

 

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jc1234
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14 Feb 2016
11:08:53am
I have been unable to reach the website for nearly two days. The little wheel spins for a long time, and then the message 'unable to display website' appears. Has bidStart finally died? Anybody else able to get in?
Note: I could not find the old thread.
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nigelc
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14 Feb 2016
11:30:56am
re: bidStart Dead???

I wonder if the site's web server has just failed and no-one at SG has noticed. Sad

I received an automated search results message from the site just three hours ago so the database must have been up then even if the web server was down.

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Charlie2009
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14 Feb 2016
11:59:43am
re: bidStart Dead???

It's O.K. now.

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www.hipstamp.com/store/my-stamping-ground
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In loving memory of Carol, my wife for 52 years.

14 Feb 2016
12:10:21pm

Auctions - Approvals
re: bidStart Dead???

It's working fine now ...... SG does not monitor their own site religiously, much less Bidstart.

I am waiting until the last minute to decide whether to switch over or not, it is a handy place to store inventory and it is easy to move it to Ebay and back again if it doesn't sell.

If you are still on Bidstart and were one of the ones initially invited there is no need to switch email accounts from what they have said. They also plan to give plenty of notice prior to shutdown and still have to maintain financial data and access for tax purposes (required by law)..

Still not certain if you can load items directly into SG or if it goes through Bidstart (they were going to notify me).

I actually had more sales on Bidstart in January than the sum total of the last 6 months of 2015. Granted it was made up of two sales but I can't complain.

Anyway .... time will tell. I don't trust SG to do anything that they aren't required to do. There does not seem to be a corporate conscience.

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Philatarium
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APS #187980

14 Feb 2016
01:13:44pm
re: bidStart Dead???

Carol/Webpaper: If you're a registered seller on SG, you can list directly on there, either singly or by bulk upload. I haven't tried it yet, because they're still syncing my BS listings to SG, but I should take some "practice" listings and try to put them just on SG. I'll try to do that soon.

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"You gotta put down the duckie if you wanna play the saxophone. (Hoots the Owl -- Sesame Street)"

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In loving memory of Carol, my wife for 52 years.

14 Feb 2016
02:02:53pm

Auctions - Approvals
re: bidStart Dead???

I have not registered under SG yet - too many hiccups. I will be interested to know just how easy listing is as opposed to Bidstart. I was invited in early and was told to just let them know when I was ready.. I have not decided whether or not it is worthwhile. Do they accept Paypal yet - not thrilled at the thought of giving SG any of my financial information.

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Philatarium
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APS #187980

14 Feb 2016
03:50:57pm
re: bidStart Dead???

You can get paid by SG for your sales through PayPal, so you wouldn't be providing your banking information, but I don't think they've implemented PayPal for buyers to pay that way yet. I hope they will.

Several months ago, someone from SG said that they were going to keep PayPal as an alternative for seller payments (i.e., from SG), so that's hopeful, but I don't know if that's what they're still planning to do.


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"You gotta put down the duckie if you wanna play the saxophone. (Hoots the Owl -- Sesame Street)"

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Philatarium
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APS #187980

14 Feb 2016
05:12:28pm
re: bidStart Dead???

Webpaper, let me also add that it's not like you've missed the boat or anything: the new SG site still isn't really ready for prime time, in my opinion. They have still some obvious programming problems. (Some images missing, sorting is much better but still not completely right, etc.) I see no reason not to stay with Bidstart until it's no longer possible to.

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"You gotta put down the duckie if you wanna play the saxophone. (Hoots the Owl -- Sesame Street)"

www.hipstamp.com/store/the-philatarium
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In loving memory of Carol, my wife for 52 years.

14 Feb 2016
05:51:25pm

Auctions - Approvals
re: bidStart Dead???

You got that right. I log in and play around once in awhile and they are definitely not prime time.

I do not ship outside of the US and without Paypal I don't anticipate a lot of US buyers transitioning to SG. I also hate the loss of control in customer contact - sellers appear to be only suppliers of inventory with very limited contact with the buyer. It's an odd position. We will see what transitions out of the mess.

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parkinlot
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Immediate Past President - West Essex Philatelic Society www.wepsonline.org

15 Feb 2016
12:54:05pm
re: bidStart Dead???

I just logged onto Stanley Gibbons Marketplace the other day to look around and see what my listings look like. For some reason they decided to show only a partial portion of the item description. You have to click on an expansion link to see the whole thing. Who in their right mind thinks this is a good idea? No other website has this. SOR, ebay and Delcampe have the description below the image of the item. Not sure why they are trying to reinvent the wheel. SGM has a narrow strip to view the description. This makes my scrambled tables look even worse. So much for my initial excitement that Stanley Gibbons bought bidStart. I don't have much hope, that is why I created my own website.

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"APS - AFDCS - GBCC - USSS - SCC - IPDA"

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roy
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BuckaCover.com - 80,000 covers priced 60c to $1.50 - Easy browsing 500 categories

15 Feb 2016
01:09:57pm
re: bidStart Dead???

" You have to click on an expansion link to see the whole thing. Who in their right mind thinks this is a good idea? "



It is probably a change to cut down information on the screen to make it "mobile friendly" for phones.

Roy
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Tim
Collector, Webmaster

15 Feb 2016
07:29:53pm
re: bidStart Dead???

You are probably right Roy, but there has to be a better way to do it.

Tim

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"Isaac Asimov once said if his doctor told him he was dying, he wouldn’t lament, he would just type a little faster. "

mncancels.org
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In loving memory of Carol, my wife for 52 years.

25 Feb 2016
11:26:04am

Auctions - Approvals
re: bidStart Dead???

Just so everyone who is using Bidstart as a parking lot is aware - you might want to read the linked article. Shares dropped down to 43 pence this past week. You might want to make a copy of your inventory.

http://www.londonstockexchange.com/exchange/news/alliance-news/detail/1456215731413171400.html

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michael78651

25 Feb 2016
11:43:00am
re: bidStart Dead???

It certainly seems that they are not doing much to publicize their new "platform". Of course being to "buggy" to work right does limit trying to expand its use. Also, requiring people wanting to use the platform to have to comply with using their internal payment system whereby Gibbons holds funds for disbursement later (when a company gets itself into trouble watch for those disbursement time frames to lengthen) limits the number of people willing to conduct transactions. Requiring people to create new email accounts to use the system makes no sense. Make it difficult to use, and people won't use it.

Gibbons also doesn't embrace the little penny stamp sellers. When one is not getting pounds, one needs to get the pennies. Pennies, with robust sales, do add up to pounds.

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youpiao
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25 Feb 2016
12:02:08pm
re: bidStart Dead???

I think we should all dig under our sofa cushions for coins, chip in, and buy SG Group PLC. As a kicker, we would get BidStart, to restore to its glory (such as it were).😁

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"Ekki-Ekki-Ekki-Ekki-PTANG. Zoom-Boing. Z'nourrwringmm"
michael78651

25 Feb 2016
12:32:36pm
re: bidStart Dead???

To change BidStart back to its old glory would mean changing it back to StampWants.

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Charlie2009
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25 Feb 2016
12:42:46pm
re: bidStart Dead???

I got out of it on the 1st of the month very quickly !!

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parkinlot
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Immediate Past President - West Essex Philatelic Society www.wepsonline.org

26 Feb 2016
05:11:48pm
re: bidStart Dead???

bidStart isn't dead... It just smells funny...

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"APS - AFDCS - GBCC - USSS - SCC - IPDA"

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In loving memory of Carol, my wife for 52 years.

26 Feb 2016
05:42:42pm

Auctions - Approvals
re: bidStart Dead???

The stock tanked because the auditor pulled out - shades of Arthur Anderson and Enron. A lot of interesting comments on the investment forum.

http://www.iii.co.uk/investment/detail?code=cotn:LSE:SGI&display=discussion




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ikeyPikey
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26 Feb 2016
05:54:43pm
re: bidStart Dead???

Were they carrying their inventory on the books at catalog value?

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Dakota
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26 Feb 2016
07:33:09pm
re: bidStart Dead???

Although sales aren't what they once were, I am still getting sales on Bidstart. Had a very nice one yesterday but things are slow. On SGM I might make a sale every month or so.

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cdj1122
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Silence in the face of adversity is the father of complicity and collusion, the first cousins of conspiracy..

26 Feb 2016
08:22:52pm
re: bidStart Dead???

Reading the comments on the investment SGI page is depressing.
While I only visited the Strand store once about fifty years ago, to purchase a few postally used pound value stamps, my familiarity with the SG catalogs makes me feel like I did some years ago when after a long trip I stopped at the club bar to down a few, and a fellow sent me a beer.
I thanked him but he left before I could reciprocate and I noticed how thin and wan he looked waving as he left.
Since there was something familiar but I couldn't place the name, I asked someone nearby. It turned out to be a long time family friend, one who had provided references for me years earlier, but his ride had met him and whisked him away.
The member next to me explained about Jim's illness and long fight. Two weeks later he was history.
That is the feeling of impending loss I have when I think of a world without Stanley Gibbons, LTD or LLC.
I wonder what will happen to the skull and bones of SG.


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".... You may think you understood what you thought I said, but I'm not sure you realize that what you think you heard is not what I thought I meant. .... "
Noernberg
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27 Feb 2016
03:18:20pm
re: bidStart Dead???

I exported my entire inventory to a comma delimited file so I could have it at the ready for some other bulk uploader. Today and yesterday, it's starting to get wonky again. I'm just waiting for the plug to get pulled suddenly again when they can't pay the bills. Just like Bob, I created my own website and it works pretty well, but it's hard to drive traffic without the marketplace-type environment. I just want a "store" that can have some basic inventory and not have to pay a fortune for it.

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youpiao
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07 Mar 2016
12:30:10pm
re: bidStart Dead???

Image Not Found


I won't hold my breath.

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"Ekki-Ekki-Ekki-Ekki-PTANG. Zoom-Boing. Z'nourrwringmm"
rrraphy
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Retired Consultant APS#186030

07 Mar 2016
12:40:30pm

Approvals
re: bidStart Dead???

Was acting very unevenly yesterday..you could see some parts of their data, but not others. And you could not initiate any transaction, nor see your personal files (want lists etc..)
Today, it is dead! Then a glimpse of hope..actually not, just my saved in memory screen of Saturday...then dead again! The body is getting cold!
Feel sorry for anyone trying to run a business there!
rrr...

"This webpage is not available

ERR_NAME_NOT_RESOLVED"



And back on again (but the item I wanted is gone..Surprise)

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"E. Rutherford: All science is either physics or stamp collecting."
Noernberg
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07 Mar 2016
06:39:40pm
re: bidStart Dead???

Well, bad news that Matt Ryan is now gone from Stanley Gibbons (former Product Manager and voice of reason). Probably a good move for him to be able to move on and away!

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In loving memory of Carol, my wife for 52 years.

07 Mar 2016
07:19:14pm

Auctions - Approvals
re: bidStart Dead???

I wondered if Matt was still around. We had some wonderful back and forths when he first came onboard. He did not go into this thing blind but we lost touch when things at SG started to deteriorate.

He had an incredible love of history and there were no obscure referncces that he didn't pick up on - I hope he had a soft landing...

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michael78651

07 Mar 2016
09:46:30pm
re: bidStart Dead???

Matt, at least to me, was very critical regarding Gibbons and the BidStart project. Last year, when the rabble was fired, Gibbons sent me an email asking me to rejoin. I contacted Matt and asked him if he thought it would be worthwhile to reopen my store and resume selling. Simply put, he flat out told me that if it were him, he wouldn't. That was all that I needed to know.

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Webpaper

In loving memory of Carol, my wife for 52 years.

07 Mar 2016
10:22:39pm

Auctions - Approvals
re: bidStart Dead???

That is the reason I have never "on-boarded". He felt my concerns (and there were many) were valid. The only straight shooter in the bunch.

Rich was apparently brought back to smooth feathers but I had no confidence in what he was saying. Is he still around ?

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Noernberg
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07 Mar 2016
11:22:01pm
re: bidStart Dead???

Heimlich? Yes, I believe he is, last I knew. Haven't heard much lately, though.

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In loving memory of Carol, my wife for 52 years.

11 Mar 2016
07:06:07am

Auctions - Approvals
re: bidStart Dead???

If you haven't been paying attention SG is now down to 20 pence (28 cents US) and have apparently proposed a new issue of common stock priced at 10 pence (14 cents US).

I just saved my inventory to a CSV file ....

http://www.iii.co.uk/investment/detail?code=cotn:LSE:SGI&display=discussion

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bobstew617
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11 Mar 2016
07:08:40am
re: bidStart Dead???

I think that is very wise...

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michael78651

11 Mar 2016
10:41:48am
re: bidStart Dead???

I should swoop in and buy up all the stock!

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youpiao
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11 Mar 2016
12:04:36pm
re: bidStart Dead???

Sorry, Michael. I'm already deep into negotiations with them, to trade one of my 3-cent plate blocks for the whole company, lock, stock, and barrel. Now, we are just hammering out how much cash they have to throw in.

T

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parkinlot
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Immediate Past President - West Essex Philatelic Society www.wepsonline.org

11 Mar 2016
04:04:26pm
re: bidStart Dead???

Some good news??? Being a collector of GB 33, I wish it were me.

http://www.standard.co.uk/business/stanley-gibbons-eases-its-gloom-by-selling-the-holy-grail-of-stamps-a3200386.html

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"APS - AFDCS - GBCC - USSS - SCC - IPDA"

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sheepshanks
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11 Mar 2016
04:13:43pm
re: bidStart Dead???

Perhaps Ian, (Brechinite) would like to let us all see a scan when it arrives. Guess that's what being a canny Scotsman is all about.
Only joking of course but it would be nice to have that much of a stamp budget to be able to spend on just one stamp.
Vic

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rwillis29
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11 Mar 2016
06:38:28pm
re: bidStart Dead???

I closed my BidStart store for now. I can,t get on. So if i can't get on buyers can't ether.At Wits End

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d1stamper
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11 Mar 2016
07:03:44pm

Auctions
re: bidStart Dead???

I just logged on to Bidstart now and it seems to be fine.

Doug

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michael78651

12 Mar 2016
12:41:04am
re: bidStart Dead???

It appears that Gibbons is also under investigation for unpaid taxes. Its entire accounting department has also quit.

I don't think I want to buy Gibbons.

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khj
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12 Mar 2016
01:46:33am
re: bidStart Dead???

Save your money for buying Scott, Michael!

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bernie2000
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12 Mar 2016
07:41:08am
re: bidStart Dead???

I use Google Chrome and when I go to Bidstart, I get the message "down for maintenance" This has been happening to me for at least 5 days. So I tried Firefox and got the same message. In desperation I tried Explorer (which I generally do not like to use) and have been able to get into Bidstart. I could also get into Bidstart from an Apple phone. Go figure.

Bill

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ikeyPikey
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12 Mar 2016
09:19:35am
re: bidStart Dead???

"... I use Google Chrome ... I tried Firefox ... I tried Explorer ... an Apple phone. Go figure ..."



Did your application reach its timeout limit ... did your application load the last 'good' page from its cache ... lots to figure ...
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Noernberg
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12 Mar 2016
09:51:37am
re: bidStart Dead???

Have you run CClean or other application to clear out your internet cache? It may help "reset" things. I run into that problem with Google Chrome all the time.

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rwillis29
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12 Mar 2016
11:09:16am
re: bidStart Dead???

"I use Google Chrome and when I go to Bidstart, I get the message "down for maintenance" This has been happening to me for at least 5 days. So I tried Firefox and got the same message."


The same here. Got on with my iPad but slow and freezing up. Don't know if its windows 10?
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DouglasGPerry
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APS Member #196859

12 Mar 2016
11:55:26am
re: bidStart Dead???

For what it's worth, I just accessed Bidstart using the new Edge browser on Windows 10 with no problems.

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"All hobbies are absurd to those on the outside, and a joy to those within."
sheepshanks
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12 Mar 2016
12:02:22pm
re: bidStart Dead???

Just tried Firefox got in straight away.

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rwillis29
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12 Mar 2016
01:07:46pm
re: bidStart Dead???

I got in no problems today.

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michael78651

12 Mar 2016
07:22:44pm
re: bidStart Dead???

I avoid all problems by not even trying that site. Big Grin

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Dakota
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12 Mar 2016
07:58:00pm
re: bidStart Dead???

It seems to be Hit and Miss if the site is up and running. I did sell one item today on Bidstart.Applause

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Tim
Collector, Webmaster

12 Mar 2016
07:59:31pm
re: bidStart Dead???

I take a slightly different view on the SG problems. This is all very bad news. Moving past the BS issues, there are a lot of collectors who depend on the SG catalogs for their collections. For us in the US it would be the same as Scott going out of business. This is not good for the hobby.

Regards ... Tim.

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"Isaac Asimov once said if his doctor told him he was dying, he wouldn’t lament, he would just type a little faster. "

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michael78651

12 Mar 2016
08:24:31pm
re: bidStart Dead???

Tim, I do agree with you on that point. Back in 2008, Gibbons began to make a mark in the USA catalog market. I think it was a bold move, and a good one. However, they stopped doing it, and now it is difficult to get their catalogs. They aren't even printing right now. My son wants to get one of their catalogs, but it's not available.

I would not want to see Gibbons, Scott, Michel or any other catalog publisher close their doors. The void would not be filled.

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ikeyPikey
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13 Mar 2016
12:57:12am
re: bidStart Dead???

Even if SG collapses, that is no reason that the remaining useful assets would not be sold relatively intact, including the catalog business.

Cheers,

/s/ ikeyPikey

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michael78651

13 Mar 2016
01:38:03am
re: bidStart Dead???

That is true, but the continuity will be lost, and there is no guarantee that the new editors would continue the publications in the manner as produced by Gibbons.

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In loving memory of Carol, my wife for 52 years.

13 Mar 2016
06:06:07am

Auctions - Approvals
re: bidStart Dead???

The continuity has already been lost when the current management team of bankers decided to expand into areas that were unfamiliar to them to appease the stockholders. They bit off a huge chunk of the international collectibles marketplace when it was already in decline.

It's basic greed - the same greed that is destroying Scott (I can't afford new catalogs now - and it looks like a full set will be vastly more expensive by the time they issue the new "set". We shall see ....

Just my two cents

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Guthrum
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13 Mar 2016
06:49:00am
re: bidStart Dead???

Interesting predictions about Stanley Gibbons - looks as if their house magazine has begun the cutbacks by sacking the copy editor! The latest GB Shakespeare set is previewed, and among the paragraphs we are surprised to see:
Image Not Found

Naturally I consulted my "British Commonwealth Elizabethan" collection:

Image Not Found

Just as I thought - not a forest to be seen anywhere!



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ikeyPikey
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13 Mar 2016
09:08:26am
re: bidStart Dead???

"... when the current management team of bankers decided to expand into areas that were unfamiliar to them to appease the stockholders ..."



Back when I was reading The Wall Street Journal every day, I spotted a cycle: a board would use a companys' profits to acquire other companies for 'synergy' and, a few years later, sell-off those units to return to their 'core competency'.

Again, and again.

Everybody needs a hobby?

Just in case you're curious, the alternative would be to give the shareholders' cash to the shareholders, but that would require that the board admit that it is not clever enough to find some better use for the shareholders' money.

Libertarians claim a parallel with governments & taxes.

Boards that 'leverage' the shareholders' equity by borrowing money to go on a 'growth' spree - and bonus themselves along the way - belong in jail.

But that's me.

Cheers,

/s/ ikeyPikey
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Guthrum
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13 Mar 2016
02:32:56pm
re: bidStart Dead???

Ikey, I need Margot Robbie in a bath to make this all clear to me. Big Grin

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15 Mar 2016
08:00:15am

Auctions - Approvals
re: bidStart Dead???

Interesting article- the new shares will account for 73 per cent of total outstanding shares. They are telling their shareholders that if they do not purchase the new issue (at 10 pence per share) their share in the company will fall to only 27 per cent of what it is today.

As I write this SG has fallen to 15 pence per share.

http://www.iii.co.uk/articles/301945/should-you-take-part-%C2%A313m-rescue-deal-stanley-gibbons-group-plc

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cdj1122
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Silence in the face of adversity is the father of complicity and collusion, the first cousins of conspiracy..

16 Mar 2016
02:42:54am
re: bidStart Dead???

"... Question over asset backing

Stanley Gibbons large stock of stamps and other collectibles means that, based on the group's most recent accounts, the stock currently has a tangible net asset value of 90p per share. Even after the proposed fundraising, tangible net asset value per share should be 24p.

The problem with relying on this asset backing is that the value of collectibles is entirely dependent on market conditions. It seems that prices have fallen steadily over the last year. ..."


Since we know that dealers often buy collections at a severe discount, and I suspect a significant discount even for singular,somewhat unique items, the question arises as to which level does their accountant use for valuation.
Surely not the value one might find in the SG Catalogs.
But more then the purchase prices seems fair.
It seems to be an area ripe for mis-representation and eventually a scandal of Enron proportions.
The article's author mentions "risky investment." I should say so.

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youpiao
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16 Mar 2016
04:43:04am
re: bidStart Dead???

" the question arises as to which level does their accountant use for valuation."



I have no doubt their inventory is on the books at retail value. In a secondary stock offering, it is in the best interests of the underwriters (in terms of gaining future business from other companies, and from finding investors to purchase shares they underwrite) to raise as much money as possible for the client. No investment underwriter floats an offering at 50% of the current price, much less at an 89% discount to net asset value, unless that NAV is greatly inflated to begin with.

Ted
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16 Mar 2016
08:01:56am
re: bidStart Dead???

"... I have no doubt their inventory is on the books at retail value ..."



In your country, "on the books" would be at historic cost.

But when people value a company for sale or liquidation, presto, assets (including inventory) can be valued at closer to market conditions.

But valuing SG inventory at current market prices - even with actual eBay sales data - would still grossly over-value the inventory.

Why? Because you could not dump that much stuff on the market with affecting the prevailing prices.

The SG inventory can be valued at current market prices - its highest realizable cash value - only if it were to be dribbled, quietly, onto the market.

Otherwise, the value becomes, as the actor E. G. Marshall said of his first & middle names, "Everybody's Guess".

Cheers,

/s/ ikeyPikey
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16 Mar 2016
01:11:25pm
re: bidStart Dead???

Brechinite, no problem, we are assembling a team of miners and explosives experts, had to hold off a while as the last team got nicked for the Hatton Garden hoist. Eccles and Seagoon were otherwise engaged.

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michael78651

17 Mar 2016
01:26:13am
re: bidStart Dead???

This thread has been split, moving 11 posts onto a new Thread titled:"Nutsy Politics"

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Dakota
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17 Mar 2016
02:09:50pm
re: bidStart Dead???

Although I am still selling on Bidstart, I have noticed the number of Stores has shrunk considerably. A couple of months ago, Bidstarts store listing amounted to 49 pages. It is now 39 pages. That is over 200 stores closed.

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youpiao
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17 Mar 2016
03:42:29pm
re: bidStart Dead???

Not surprising. Gibbons/BidStart has, for all intents and purposes, abandoned this site. And, for quite some time, the discussion board has also been virtually abandoned by members, as days can go by without a new post, and when there is a post, it is most likely to be "So-and-so has added a new profile picture," not exactly one of the more compelling topics to spur discussion.

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17 Mar 2016
05:17:24pm
re: bidStart Dead???

Yes, I think it's about dead. Too bad, at one time when it was stampWants we had a good thing going. I closed my store as soon as SG started taking over.

I did buy two stamps I found the other day from Greenstamps (German New Guinea) on bidstart, so I guess some are hanging on.

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youpiao
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17 Mar 2016
05:33:26pm
re: bidStart Dead???

I've contacted my favorite sellers to find out where I can find them when BidStart goes dark.

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25 Mar 2016
10:11:17pm
re: bidStart Dead???

So anyone hear anything about April 1st? I haven't found any announcements.

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Retired Consultant APS#186030

27 Mar 2016
03:01:01am

Approvals
re: bidStart Dead???

Once more....This site can’t be reached

stampwants-stamps.bidstart.com took too long to respond.
ERR_CONNECTION_TIMED_OUT

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27 Mar 2016
07:49:01am
re: bidStart Dead???

You are correct Ralph, the bidstart server isn't responding at all.

Tim.

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27 Mar 2016
10:34:36am
re: bidStart Dead???

It's still not responding!

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27 Mar 2016
10:35:02am
re: bidStart Dead???

Yep... DOA this morning. Not expecting it back for a while, considering the holiday.

I'm still curious as to what will be in the announcement April 1... I Don't Want To See

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In loving memory of Carol, my wife for 52 years.

27 Mar 2016
11:06:26am

Auctions - Approvals
re: bidStart Dead???

"I'm still curious as to what will be in the announcement April 1."

Odd date to pick. Best case would be that they recognized that there was some residual value in Bidstart and have sold it. That would be the smart thing to do because there is NOTHING that transferred over to SGM.

Next best case would be that they have decided to keep it and use it as their "US" site. That would work as long as they don't eliminate Paypal and insist on payment direct to them, that would leave me out of it. At least it would still provide a place to park inventory.

Last would be a statement that Bidstart will be closed (pick a date) and it is time to onboard or punt, Not sure I would onboard with all the loose ends, the absolutely lousy search engine, the inane drill downs....you know, the fact it is still dysfunctional.

Anyway it is interesting that one of their largest dealers still has his SGM store closed to sales. You want to buy it must be through Bidstart. He was one of their biggest cheerleaders early on.

Gonna tart making popcorn the 31st so I'm ready.

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27 Mar 2016
05:22:36pm
re: bidStart Dead???

April 1 for us April Fools who are still staying with them. I just tried it again. Nothing.

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bobstew617
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27 Mar 2016
06:55:02pm
re: bidStart Dead???

Looks like it is back up again--at least it did for me this time.

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01 Apr 2016
10:49:03am
re: bidStart Dead???

I see Bidstart was quite prompt on sending out the monthly invoice for the few sales I have had.

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01 Apr 2016
10:56:07am
re: bidStart Dead???

...just as I am prompt to withdraw my money after I make a rare sale on SGM!

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06 Apr 2016
08:28:23pm

Auctions - Approvals
re: bidStart Dead???

A post on the financial forum regarding SGM states that Henderson Global now has a 29% interest in Stanley Gibbons.

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13 Apr 2016
04:51:52pm
re: bidStart Dead???

It looks like Bidstart is getting close to the end. It shows the items that I have listed and items sold. But there is no longer a Stores Directory. It appears that they have closed the stores.

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keesindy
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13 Apr 2016
07:05:06pm
re: bidStart Dead???

It appears that several of us who had not yet closed our BidStart stores now have closed signs posted at our stores!

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13 Apr 2016
07:22:13pm
re: bidStart Dead???

I just checked Bidstart again and my store has been resurrected.

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michael78651

13 Apr 2016
07:24:41pm
re: bidStart Dead???

up, down, up, down, opened, closed, open, closed - that's how to get prospective buyers to stop coming to a web site.

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Webpaper

In loving memory of Carol, my wife for 52 years.

14 Apr 2016
11:48:08am

Auctions - Approvals
re: bidStart Dead???

Wow - life on the Bidstart forums. An explanation from "Aron" - and a note from "SG" themselves ..... they finally noticed there was a problem and they claim to have actually fixed part of it !!!!!

Still apparently no listing capabilities and part of the "fix" to get your store open again may, um.... change things in your store a bit........

Still - there is life ...... where there is life there may be hope ...... note "may be hope" ....

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15 Apr 2016
02:44:27pm
re: bidStart Dead???

I wouldn't be very hopeful under the circumstances. I don't know if they were hacked or if the store closures and associated problems were an unexpected consequence of some other action SG was taking. Either way, the site's future isn't very appealing.

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19 Apr 2016
12:28:15am
re: bidStart Dead???

What is this I won lots and seller canceled all lots I won he did not get what he wanted Wow. Don't bid on bidstart. Here is the email he sent. I bid on many lots lot of my bids were 5-20% CV. its not my fault no one bid aginst me

All your bidStart orders with me will be CANCELLED. Clearly there is something drastically wrong with bidStart. Did you really think I would sell any stamps at these ridiculous prices? Since you didn’t have the decency to email me to ask whether these prices were correct you have been blocked from entering my store.

Moderator's Note: This post was edited to remove personal identification information.



(Modified by Moderator on 2016-04-19 01:17:24)

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michael78651

19 Apr 2016
12:51:30am
re: bidStart Dead???

I'd report that SOB, and have him kicked off that site.

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rwillis29
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19 Apr 2016
01:06:58am
re: bidStart Dead???

I did report him i haven't got a response yet. I even sent them a copy of the email. here is his store header APS member????? I should report him to the APS. I will see what bidstart will do.


Moderator's Note: This post was edited to remove personal identification information.


(Modified by Moderator on 2016-04-19 01:16:14)

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amsd
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Editor, Seal News; contributor, JuicyHeads

19 Apr 2016
08:19:12am

Auctions
re: bidStart Dead???

Richard,

in no world with which I'm familiar may someone list items for auction and contend the opening bids were not going to be honored, unless there was a reserve function in place. Asking a buyer to confirm the price is unrealistic.

I assume he's not here, right?

If he's an APS member, his actions deserve note with their ethics board.

They would not be tolerated here for a second.

David

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19 Apr 2016
09:18:48am
re: bidStart Dead???

Please don't lump all bidStart Sellers in with this guy. This guy should be booted and reported to APS and any other associations he is a member of. By telling people not to use the site hurts a great number of ethical sellers.

Bob

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19 Apr 2016
09:24:50am
re: bidStart Dead???

That's right I should not said not to use bidstart. I have used it for years i will wait for there reply.
Richard

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Immediate Past President - West Essex Philatelic Society www.wepsonline.org

19 Apr 2016
11:54:47am
re: bidStart Dead???

I'm wondering if dodgy sellers are predicting that the site is on it's last legs and they can can get away with pushing the envelope with impunity.

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19 Apr 2016
12:48:03pm
re: bidStart Dead???

With all due respect to Richard, who has every right to be angry and who I recognize from my BidStart days as nothing short of an upstanding seller/buyer/member...

I think the seller got his due punishment with the 64 negatives that were inflicted (and from whatever other buyers he may have backed out on this time).

I don't know the seller personally, but also recognize him from my BidStart days, and he is definitely an above average seller, long-time collector, and long-time member of the APS.

To put things in perspective, the seller has close to 10,000 positive feedbacks without a single negative feedback until now. While the seller does have a couple of few questionable listings, it is well under the typical number of incorrect listings for sellers.

The transactions I'm looking at on SG BS are not Richard's, but from another bidder who was competing with him on those lots.

In the transactions I am looking at on SG BS, the items that the seller backed out on in the deal had a catalog value of roughly $10,000 and were purchased for a little over $100. This is not a case of a couple $100 purchased for $10. To be honest, I really don't expect (nor know of any seller that wouldn't take the negative feedback hit rather than...) to let $10,000 catalog of pretty good material go for just slightly more than 1% of catalog.

In my BidStart days, something like this has happened to me more than once (those who know me, know by penny ways). I pretty much let it slide every time. A couple of times, I even initiated the offer to drop the transactions, and ended up with a pretty good friendship. The difference, of course, is that I got a very NICE email from the seller explaining the situation, rather than a "in your face, mock the buyer" email. That was in really really bad taste on the seller's part and Richard has good reason to be angry for getting that email on his purchases!

But it is a matter of fact that SG BS is having huge listing problems right now. Perhaps the penny auction listings with no reserve was a listing mistake not recognized by the seller until after the fact. Perhaps SG themselves messed up the listing (have you read all the complaints about store/listings being messed up this year?).

The SG BS listing database in pretty badly messed up right now. A case in point, I went back to look at my purchases over the years (I do that to track down certain items sometimes). I was shocked to find items in my search history that I had purchased from the correct seller but at from a DIFFERENT site/source!!! (not eBay)

Somehow, SG BS had ported a small part of my purchase history from that seller and was displaying it, even though the purchase/listing had nothing to do with SG BS. Those purchases were from about 8 years ago!

We all know SG BS is having huge logistic problems right now. The seller should have taken out his anger at SG BS and himself instead of at Richard. For that, the seller should definitely be drawn and quartered. Beyond that, I would suggest just letting it go, and chalk it up to a foolish anger reaction by the seller. I know I've done that foolish anger reaction thing myself, not realizing/regretting until after the fact.

I'm not taking anybody to task here, other than the seller. Just offering additional info and a different perspective. JMHO.

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19 Apr 2016
01:12:59pm
re: bidStart Dead???

I will update, and note that the seller has now initiated retaliatory negative feedback to his buyer(s), which is not only uncalled for, but the comment was extremely mean-spirited.

Obviously, the seller is still in foolish angry reaction mode.

This seller is only succeeding in destroying what's left of his original hard-earned good reputation.

A good seller, when unable to honor a sale, is apologetic and tries to make amends. Rather than lash out and blame the customer for his/her woes.

As I stated before, Richard has many good reasons to be angry.

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19 Apr 2016
01:20:44pm
re: bidStart Dead???

I would also suggest to Richard, to avoid giving the negative feedback right now, since the seller is retaliating against buyers. SG BS has their hands full trying to solve coding problems right now, and I doubt they would have time to deal with this issue and erase and retaliatory feedback by the seller.

It's a shame when a seller can't just simply admit a mistake and try to make amends, rather than go the slash and burn route. I know Richard was always a great buyer/seller on BS. Fortunately, the good sellers far outnumber the bad sellers.

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michael78651

19 Apr 2016
02:13:47pm
re: bidStart Dead???

Back in the day I sold thousands of stamps on StampWants. Did I ever make a mistake in my listings? Certainly. Did buyers ever "seize the moment" and bid/buy such "bargains"? Most certainly. Was I upset? A little, but only at myself for the stupid typos. Did I honor the sale? Most definitely. It wasn't the buyers' fault. It was my own for not double checking before clicking on the submit button.

That seller definitely needs the boot on the butt.

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19 Apr 2016
11:48:33pm
re: bidStart Dead???

If he would have told me it was a mistake or typo we could have dissolved the problem. As for selling $100.00 to $200.00 starting at .01. I didn't thank anything wrong with it i do that myself. I got called to work and could not bid on the stamps any longer. I put a low bids on them to keep up on the ones i wanted That way i could control what i spend. if i put a max bid on all of the lots how do i stop. I may get some stamps cheeper and let other lots go that's an auction. And for feedback i have 42314 pos. on bidstart

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21 Apr 2016
07:22:31pm
re: bidStart Dead???

".... It's a shame when a seller can't just simply admit a mistake and try to make amends, rather than go the slash and burn route. ...."

It certainly is.
And it can happen over something as small as a fifteen cent stamp.

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21 Apr 2016
08:05:06pm
re: bidStart Dead???

I see that Bidstart is not going to charge a Final Value fee on sales for the next week. This is a measure of good will for all of the problems they have been having. It shouldn't cost them much as there are any sales being made.

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22 Apr 2016
02:21:31am
re: bidStart Dead???

Regarding the flaming seller -- I've looked over lots in question (501 items) and the feedback wars and what not.

I didn't ask the seller nor SG BS directly, but it does appear that there was some major mess-up in the auction listing, but not necessarily by the seller. The lots are pretty random and span a great range of price/countries/time/type, ranging from very low value items to $1000+ items (many $100+ items), all put up as penny auctions. It's almost as if store items going through the AUTOMATIC monthly re-list for that day suddenly got relisted as penny auctions instead. I should note that the SG BS boards do indicate major store listing problems for that week. What is clear is that SG has permitted the seller to cancel all those sales -- suggesting that there was an error by SG BS.

A pretty significant error. I did a rough addition without going through all 501 lots -- the total was already well past $20K catalog for mostly quality/premium material that went for barely a few $100s. I can understand the seller (previously 0 negative feedbacks) being shocked and angry.

Either way, it's no excuse for the seller taking it out on the buyers! The note he sent to all the buyers was absolutely rude. It's a shame, all those years of hard work building up a reputation, only to flush it all away with a foolish 4 line statement. If he had deleted the last 2 sentences and replaced them with an apology and free store credit to match the canceled winning bids, he would have a pretty decent private sale and might have earned a lot of good will. Alas, twas not to be.

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26 Jul 2016
10:34:20am
re: bidStart Dead???

Press Release – Mark Rosenberg Agrees to Purchase bidStart from Stanley Gibbons

July 22, 2016 (Raleigh, NC) – Stanley Gibbons (US) Inc. and Mark Rosenberg are pleased to confirm that the latter has agreed to purchase bidStart from Stanley Gibbons for an undisclosed sum.

The deal will close on or before August 1, 2016.

The sale follows a review of Stanley Gibbons Ecommerce strategy in which it will refocus on serving collectors seeking rare and fine stamps and its world-renowned publications. Stanley Gibbons continued ownership of bidStart is at odds with this strategy and drove its desire to sell.

Mark Rosenberg, who recently launched HipStamp.com and HipComic.com, through his new venture Hip eCommerce, was the original founder and former owner of bidStart. He’s excited to bring the bidStart community and website back home, and is looking forward to working with bidStart’s over 100,000 members.

Stanley Gibbons recognizes that bidStart has a loyal customer and seller base and is delighted that these customers will continue to be served by the new owner.

Both parties share a passion for collectibles, and wish one another well in their endeavors to serve collectors and expand the market in the coming years.

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jc1234

14 Feb 2016
11:08:53am

I have been unable to reach the website for nearly two days. The little wheel spins for a long time, and then the message 'unable to display website' appears. Has bidStart finally died? Anybody else able to get in?
Note: I could not find the old thread.

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nigelc

14 Feb 2016
11:30:56am

re: bidStart Dead???

I wonder if the site's web server has just failed and no-one at SG has noticed. Sad

I received an automated search results message from the site just three hours ago so the database must have been up then even if the web server was down.

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Charlie2009

14 Feb 2016
11:59:43am

re: bidStart Dead???

It's O.K. now.

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14 Feb 2016
12:10:21pm

Auctions - Approvals

re: bidStart Dead???

It's working fine now ...... SG does not monitor their own site religiously, much less Bidstart.

I am waiting until the last minute to decide whether to switch over or not, it is a handy place to store inventory and it is easy to move it to Ebay and back again if it doesn't sell.

If you are still on Bidstart and were one of the ones initially invited there is no need to switch email accounts from what they have said. They also plan to give plenty of notice prior to shutdown and still have to maintain financial data and access for tax purposes (required by law)..

Still not certain if you can load items directly into SG or if it goes through Bidstart (they were going to notify me).

I actually had more sales on Bidstart in January than the sum total of the last 6 months of 2015. Granted it was made up of two sales but I can't complain.

Anyway .... time will tell. I don't trust SG to do anything that they aren't required to do. There does not seem to be a corporate conscience.

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Philatarium

APS #187980
14 Feb 2016
01:13:44pm

re: bidStart Dead???

Carol/Webpaper: If you're a registered seller on SG, you can list directly on there, either singly or by bulk upload. I haven't tried it yet, because they're still syncing my BS listings to SG, but I should take some "practice" listings and try to put them just on SG. I'll try to do that soon.

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14 Feb 2016
02:02:53pm

Auctions - Approvals

re: bidStart Dead???

I have not registered under SG yet - too many hiccups. I will be interested to know just how easy listing is as opposed to Bidstart. I was invited in early and was told to just let them know when I was ready.. I have not decided whether or not it is worthwhile. Do they accept Paypal yet - not thrilled at the thought of giving SG any of my financial information.

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Philatarium

APS #187980
14 Feb 2016
03:50:57pm

re: bidStart Dead???

You can get paid by SG for your sales through PayPal, so you wouldn't be providing your banking information, but I don't think they've implemented PayPal for buyers to pay that way yet. I hope they will.

Several months ago, someone from SG said that they were going to keep PayPal as an alternative for seller payments (i.e., from SG), so that's hopeful, but I don't know if that's what they're still planning to do.


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APS #187980
14 Feb 2016
05:12:28pm

re: bidStart Dead???

Webpaper, let me also add that it's not like you've missed the boat or anything: the new SG site still isn't really ready for prime time, in my opinion. They have still some obvious programming problems. (Some images missing, sorting is much better but still not completely right, etc.) I see no reason not to stay with Bidstart until it's no longer possible to.

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14 Feb 2016
05:51:25pm

Auctions - Approvals

re: bidStart Dead???

You got that right. I log in and play around once in awhile and they are definitely not prime time.

I do not ship outside of the US and without Paypal I don't anticipate a lot of US buyers transitioning to SG. I also hate the loss of control in customer contact - sellers appear to be only suppliers of inventory with very limited contact with the buyer. It's an odd position. We will see what transitions out of the mess.

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Immediate Past President - West Essex Philatelic Society www.wepsonline.org
15 Feb 2016
12:54:05pm

re: bidStart Dead???

I just logged onto Stanley Gibbons Marketplace the other day to look around and see what my listings look like. For some reason they decided to show only a partial portion of the item description. You have to click on an expansion link to see the whole thing. Who in their right mind thinks this is a good idea? No other website has this. SOR, ebay and Delcampe have the description below the image of the item. Not sure why they are trying to reinvent the wheel. SGM has a narrow strip to view the description. This makes my scrambled tables look even worse. So much for my initial excitement that Stanley Gibbons bought bidStart. I don't have much hope, that is why I created my own website.

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15 Feb 2016
01:09:57pm

re: bidStart Dead???

" You have to click on an expansion link to see the whole thing. Who in their right mind thinks this is a good idea? "



It is probably a change to cut down information on the screen to make it "mobile friendly" for phones.

Roy
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Tim
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15 Feb 2016
07:29:53pm

re: bidStart Dead???

You are probably right Roy, but there has to be a better way to do it.

Tim

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25 Feb 2016
11:26:04am

Auctions - Approvals

re: bidStart Dead???

Just so everyone who is using Bidstart as a parking lot is aware - you might want to read the linked article. Shares dropped down to 43 pence this past week. You might want to make a copy of your inventory.

http://www.londonstockexchange.com/exchange/news/alliance-news/detail/1456215731413171400.html

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michael78651

25 Feb 2016
11:43:00am

re: bidStart Dead???

It certainly seems that they are not doing much to publicize their new "platform". Of course being to "buggy" to work right does limit trying to expand its use. Also, requiring people wanting to use the platform to have to comply with using their internal payment system whereby Gibbons holds funds for disbursement later (when a company gets itself into trouble watch for those disbursement time frames to lengthen) limits the number of people willing to conduct transactions. Requiring people to create new email accounts to use the system makes no sense. Make it difficult to use, and people won't use it.

Gibbons also doesn't embrace the little penny stamp sellers. When one is not getting pounds, one needs to get the pennies. Pennies, with robust sales, do add up to pounds.

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youpiao

25 Feb 2016
12:02:08pm

re: bidStart Dead???

I think we should all dig under our sofa cushions for coins, chip in, and buy SG Group PLC. As a kicker, we would get BidStart, to restore to its glory (such as it were).😁

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michael78651

25 Feb 2016
12:32:36pm

re: bidStart Dead???

To change BidStart back to its old glory would mean changing it back to StampWants.

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Charlie2009

25 Feb 2016
12:42:46pm

re: bidStart Dead???

I got out of it on the 1st of the month very quickly !!

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26 Feb 2016
05:11:48pm

re: bidStart Dead???

bidStart isn't dead... It just smells funny...

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26 Feb 2016
05:42:42pm

Auctions - Approvals

re: bidStart Dead???

The stock tanked because the auditor pulled out - shades of Arthur Anderson and Enron. A lot of interesting comments on the investment forum.

http://www.iii.co.uk/investment/detail?code=cotn:LSE:SGI&display=discussion




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ikeyPikey

26 Feb 2016
05:54:43pm

re: bidStart Dead???

Were they carrying their inventory on the books at catalog value?

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Dakota

26 Feb 2016
07:33:09pm

re: bidStart Dead???

Although sales aren't what they once were, I am still getting sales on Bidstart. Had a very nice one yesterday but things are slow. On SGM I might make a sale every month or so.

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26 Feb 2016
08:22:52pm

re: bidStart Dead???

Reading the comments on the investment SGI page is depressing.
While I only visited the Strand store once about fifty years ago, to purchase a few postally used pound value stamps, my familiarity with the SG catalogs makes me feel like I did some years ago when after a long trip I stopped at the club bar to down a few, and a fellow sent me a beer.
I thanked him but he left before I could reciprocate and I noticed how thin and wan he looked waving as he left.
Since there was something familiar but I couldn't place the name, I asked someone nearby. It turned out to be a long time family friend, one who had provided references for me years earlier, but his ride had met him and whisked him away.
The member next to me explained about Jim's illness and long fight. Two weeks later he was history.
That is the feeling of impending loss I have when I think of a world without Stanley Gibbons, LTD or LLC.
I wonder what will happen to the skull and bones of SG.


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Noernberg

27 Feb 2016
03:18:20pm

re: bidStart Dead???

I exported my entire inventory to a comma delimited file so I could have it at the ready for some other bulk uploader. Today and yesterday, it's starting to get wonky again. I'm just waiting for the plug to get pulled suddenly again when they can't pay the bills. Just like Bob, I created my own website and it works pretty well, but it's hard to drive traffic without the marketplace-type environment. I just want a "store" that can have some basic inventory and not have to pay a fortune for it.

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youpiao

07 Mar 2016
12:30:10pm

re: bidStart Dead???

Image Not Found


I won't hold my breath.

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rrraphy

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07 Mar 2016
12:40:30pm

Approvals

re: bidStart Dead???

Was acting very unevenly yesterday..you could see some parts of their data, but not others. And you could not initiate any transaction, nor see your personal files (want lists etc..)
Today, it is dead! Then a glimpse of hope..actually not, just my saved in memory screen of Saturday...then dead again! The body is getting cold!
Feel sorry for anyone trying to run a business there!
rrr...

"This webpage is not available

ERR_NAME_NOT_RESOLVED"



And back on again (but the item I wanted is gone..Surprise)

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Noernberg

07 Mar 2016
06:39:40pm

re: bidStart Dead???

Well, bad news that Matt Ryan is now gone from Stanley Gibbons (former Product Manager and voice of reason). Probably a good move for him to be able to move on and away!

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07 Mar 2016
07:19:14pm

Auctions - Approvals

re: bidStart Dead???

I wondered if Matt was still around. We had some wonderful back and forths when he first came onboard. He did not go into this thing blind but we lost touch when things at SG started to deteriorate.

He had an incredible love of history and there were no obscure referncces that he didn't pick up on - I hope he had a soft landing...

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michael78651

07 Mar 2016
09:46:30pm

re: bidStart Dead???

Matt, at least to me, was very critical regarding Gibbons and the BidStart project. Last year, when the rabble was fired, Gibbons sent me an email asking me to rejoin. I contacted Matt and asked him if he thought it would be worthwhile to reopen my store and resume selling. Simply put, he flat out told me that if it were him, he wouldn't. That was all that I needed to know.

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07 Mar 2016
10:22:39pm

Auctions - Approvals

re: bidStart Dead???

That is the reason I have never "on-boarded". He felt my concerns (and there were many) were valid. The only straight shooter in the bunch.

Rich was apparently brought back to smooth feathers but I had no confidence in what he was saying. Is he still around ?

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Noernberg

07 Mar 2016
11:22:01pm

re: bidStart Dead???

Heimlich? Yes, I believe he is, last I knew. Haven't heard much lately, though.

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11 Mar 2016
07:06:07am

Auctions - Approvals

re: bidStart Dead???

If you haven't been paying attention SG is now down to 20 pence (28 cents US) and have apparently proposed a new issue of common stock priced at 10 pence (14 cents US).

I just saved my inventory to a CSV file ....

http://www.iii.co.uk/investment/detail?code=cotn:LSE:SGI&display=discussion

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bobstew617

11 Mar 2016
07:08:40am

re: bidStart Dead???

I think that is very wise...

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michael78651

11 Mar 2016
10:41:48am

re: bidStart Dead???

I should swoop in and buy up all the stock!

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youpiao

11 Mar 2016
12:04:36pm

re: bidStart Dead???

Sorry, Michael. I'm already deep into negotiations with them, to trade one of my 3-cent plate blocks for the whole company, lock, stock, and barrel. Now, we are just hammering out how much cash they have to throw in.

T

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11 Mar 2016
04:04:26pm

re: bidStart Dead???

Some good news??? Being a collector of GB 33, I wish it were me.

http://www.standard.co.uk/business/stanley-gibbons-eases-its-gloom-by-selling-the-holy-grail-of-stamps-a3200386.html

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sheepshanks

11 Mar 2016
04:13:43pm

re: bidStart Dead???

Perhaps Ian, (Brechinite) would like to let us all see a scan when it arrives. Guess that's what being a canny Scotsman is all about.
Only joking of course but it would be nice to have that much of a stamp budget to be able to spend on just one stamp.
Vic

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rwillis29

11 Mar 2016
06:38:28pm

re: bidStart Dead???

I closed my BidStart store for now. I can,t get on. So if i can't get on buyers can't ether.At Wits End

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d1stamper

11 Mar 2016
07:03:44pm

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re: bidStart Dead???

I just logged on to Bidstart now and it seems to be fine.

Doug

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michael78651

12 Mar 2016
12:41:04am

re: bidStart Dead???

It appears that Gibbons is also under investigation for unpaid taxes. Its entire accounting department has also quit.

I don't think I want to buy Gibbons.

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khj

12 Mar 2016
01:46:33am

re: bidStart Dead???

Save your money for buying Scott, Michael!

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bernie2000

12 Mar 2016
07:41:08am

re: bidStart Dead???

I use Google Chrome and when I go to Bidstart, I get the message "down for maintenance" This has been happening to me for at least 5 days. So I tried Firefox and got the same message. In desperation I tried Explorer (which I generally do not like to use) and have been able to get into Bidstart. I could also get into Bidstart from an Apple phone. Go figure.

Bill

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ikeyPikey

12 Mar 2016
09:19:35am

re: bidStart Dead???

"... I use Google Chrome ... I tried Firefox ... I tried Explorer ... an Apple phone. Go figure ..."



Did your application reach its timeout limit ... did your application load the last 'good' page from its cache ... lots to figure ...
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Noernberg

12 Mar 2016
09:51:37am

re: bidStart Dead???

Have you run CClean or other application to clear out your internet cache? It may help "reset" things. I run into that problem with Google Chrome all the time.

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rwillis29

12 Mar 2016
11:09:16am

re: bidStart Dead???

"I use Google Chrome and when I go to Bidstart, I get the message "down for maintenance" This has been happening to me for at least 5 days. So I tried Firefox and got the same message."


The same here. Got on with my iPad but slow and freezing up. Don't know if its windows 10?
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DouglasGPerry

APS Member #196859
12 Mar 2016
11:55:26am

re: bidStart Dead???

For what it's worth, I just accessed Bidstart using the new Edge browser on Windows 10 with no problems.

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sheepshanks

12 Mar 2016
12:02:22pm

re: bidStart Dead???

Just tried Firefox got in straight away.

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rwillis29

12 Mar 2016
01:07:46pm

re: bidStart Dead???

I got in no problems today.

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michael78651

12 Mar 2016
07:22:44pm

re: bidStart Dead???

I avoid all problems by not even trying that site. Big Grin

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Dakota

12 Mar 2016
07:58:00pm

re: bidStart Dead???

It seems to be Hit and Miss if the site is up and running. I did sell one item today on Bidstart.Applause

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Tim
Collector, Webmaster
12 Mar 2016
07:59:31pm

re: bidStart Dead???

I take a slightly different view on the SG problems. This is all very bad news. Moving past the BS issues, there are a lot of collectors who depend on the SG catalogs for their collections. For us in the US it would be the same as Scott going out of business. This is not good for the hobby.

Regards ... Tim.

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michael78651

12 Mar 2016
08:24:31pm

re: bidStart Dead???

Tim, I do agree with you on that point. Back in 2008, Gibbons began to make a mark in the USA catalog market. I think it was a bold move, and a good one. However, they stopped doing it, and now it is difficult to get their catalogs. They aren't even printing right now. My son wants to get one of their catalogs, but it's not available.

I would not want to see Gibbons, Scott, Michel or any other catalog publisher close their doors. The void would not be filled.

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ikeyPikey

13 Mar 2016
12:57:12am

re: bidStart Dead???

Even if SG collapses, that is no reason that the remaining useful assets would not be sold relatively intact, including the catalog business.

Cheers,

/s/ ikeyPikey

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michael78651

13 Mar 2016
01:38:03am

re: bidStart Dead???

That is true, but the continuity will be lost, and there is no guarantee that the new editors would continue the publications in the manner as produced by Gibbons.

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13 Mar 2016
06:06:07am

Auctions - Approvals

re: bidStart Dead???

The continuity has already been lost when the current management team of bankers decided to expand into areas that were unfamiliar to them to appease the stockholders. They bit off a huge chunk of the international collectibles marketplace when it was already in decline.

It's basic greed - the same greed that is destroying Scott (I can't afford new catalogs now - and it looks like a full set will be vastly more expensive by the time they issue the new "set". We shall see ....

Just my two cents

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Guthrum

13 Mar 2016
06:49:00am

re: bidStart Dead???

Interesting predictions about Stanley Gibbons - looks as if their house magazine has begun the cutbacks by sacking the copy editor! The latest GB Shakespeare set is previewed, and among the paragraphs we are surprised to see:
Image Not Found

Naturally I consulted my "British Commonwealth Elizabethan" collection:

Image Not Found

Just as I thought - not a forest to be seen anywhere!



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ikeyPikey

13 Mar 2016
09:08:26am

re: bidStart Dead???

"... when the current management team of bankers decided to expand into areas that were unfamiliar to them to appease the stockholders ..."



Back when I was reading The Wall Street Journal every day, I spotted a cycle: a board would use a companys' profits to acquire other companies for 'synergy' and, a few years later, sell-off those units to return to their 'core competency'.

Again, and again.

Everybody needs a hobby?

Just in case you're curious, the alternative would be to give the shareholders' cash to the shareholders, but that would require that the board admit that it is not clever enough to find some better use for the shareholders' money.

Libertarians claim a parallel with governments & taxes.

Boards that 'leverage' the shareholders' equity by borrowing money to go on a 'growth' spree - and bonus themselves along the way - belong in jail.

But that's me.

Cheers,

/s/ ikeyPikey
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Guthrum

13 Mar 2016
02:32:56pm

re: bidStart Dead???

Ikey, I need Margot Robbie in a bath to make this all clear to me. Big Grin

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15 Mar 2016
08:00:15am

Auctions - Approvals

re: bidStart Dead???

Interesting article- the new shares will account for 73 per cent of total outstanding shares. They are telling their shareholders that if they do not purchase the new issue (at 10 pence per share) their share in the company will fall to only 27 per cent of what it is today.

As I write this SG has fallen to 15 pence per share.

http://www.iii.co.uk/articles/301945/should-you-take-part-%C2%A313m-rescue-deal-stanley-gibbons-group-plc

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Silence in the face of adversity is the father of complicity and collusion, the first cousins of conspiracy..
16 Mar 2016
02:42:54am

re: bidStart Dead???

"... Question over asset backing

Stanley Gibbons large stock of stamps and other collectibles means that, based on the group's most recent accounts, the stock currently has a tangible net asset value of 90p per share. Even after the proposed fundraising, tangible net asset value per share should be 24p.

The problem with relying on this asset backing is that the value of collectibles is entirely dependent on market conditions. It seems that prices have fallen steadily over the last year. ..."


Since we know that dealers often buy collections at a severe discount, and I suspect a significant discount even for singular,somewhat unique items, the question arises as to which level does their accountant use for valuation.
Surely not the value one might find in the SG Catalogs.
But more then the purchase prices seems fair.
It seems to be an area ripe for mis-representation and eventually a scandal of Enron proportions.
The article's author mentions "risky investment." I should say so.

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youpiao

16 Mar 2016
04:43:04am

re: bidStart Dead???

" the question arises as to which level does their accountant use for valuation."



I have no doubt their inventory is on the books at retail value. In a secondary stock offering, it is in the best interests of the underwriters (in terms of gaining future business from other companies, and from finding investors to purchase shares they underwrite) to raise as much money as possible for the client. No investment underwriter floats an offering at 50% of the current price, much less at an 89% discount to net asset value, unless that NAV is greatly inflated to begin with.

Ted
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ikeyPikey

16 Mar 2016
08:01:56am

re: bidStart Dead???

"... I have no doubt their inventory is on the books at retail value ..."



In your country, "on the books" would be at historic cost.

But when people value a company for sale or liquidation, presto, assets (including inventory) can be valued at closer to market conditions.

But valuing SG inventory at current market prices - even with actual eBay sales data - would still grossly over-value the inventory.

Why? Because you could not dump that much stuff on the market with affecting the prevailing prices.

The SG inventory can be valued at current market prices - its highest realizable cash value - only if it were to be dribbled, quietly, onto the market.

Otherwise, the value becomes, as the actor E. G. Marshall said of his first & middle names, "Everybody's Guess".

Cheers,

/s/ ikeyPikey
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sheepshanks

16 Mar 2016
01:11:25pm

re: bidStart Dead???

Brechinite, no problem, we are assembling a team of miners and explosives experts, had to hold off a while as the last team got nicked for the Hatton Garden hoist. Eccles and Seagoon were otherwise engaged.

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michael78651

17 Mar 2016
01:26:13am

re: bidStart Dead???

This thread has been split, moving 11 posts onto a new Thread titled:"Nutsy Politics"

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Dakota

17 Mar 2016
02:09:50pm

re: bidStart Dead???

Although I am still selling on Bidstart, I have noticed the number of Stores has shrunk considerably. A couple of months ago, Bidstarts store listing amounted to 49 pages. It is now 39 pages. That is over 200 stores closed.

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youpiao

17 Mar 2016
03:42:29pm

re: bidStart Dead???

Not surprising. Gibbons/BidStart has, for all intents and purposes, abandoned this site. And, for quite some time, the discussion board has also been virtually abandoned by members, as days can go by without a new post, and when there is a post, it is most likely to be "So-and-so has added a new profile picture," not exactly one of the more compelling topics to spur discussion.

Ted
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tooler

17 Mar 2016
05:17:24pm

re: bidStart Dead???

Yes, I think it's about dead. Too bad, at one time when it was stampWants we had a good thing going. I closed my store as soon as SG started taking over.

I did buy two stamps I found the other day from Greenstamps (German New Guinea) on bidstart, so I guess some are hanging on.

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youpiao

17 Mar 2016
05:33:26pm

re: bidStart Dead???

I've contacted my favorite sellers to find out where I can find them when BidStart goes dark.

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Noernberg

25 Mar 2016
10:11:17pm

re: bidStart Dead???

So anyone hear anything about April 1st? I haven't found any announcements.

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rrraphy

Retired Consultant APS#186030
27 Mar 2016
03:01:01am

Approvals

re: bidStart Dead???

Once more....This site can’t be reached

stampwants-stamps.bidstart.com took too long to respond.
ERR_CONNECTION_TIMED_OUT

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Tim
Collector, Webmaster
27 Mar 2016
07:49:01am

re: bidStart Dead???

You are correct Ralph, the bidstart server isn't responding at all.

Tim.

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keesindy

27 Mar 2016
10:34:36am

re: bidStart Dead???

It's still not responding!

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Noernberg

27 Mar 2016
10:35:02am

re: bidStart Dead???

Yep... DOA this morning. Not expecting it back for a while, considering the holiday.

I'm still curious as to what will be in the announcement April 1... I Don't Want To See

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27 Mar 2016
11:06:26am

Auctions - Approvals

re: bidStart Dead???

"I'm still curious as to what will be in the announcement April 1."

Odd date to pick. Best case would be that they recognized that there was some residual value in Bidstart and have sold it. That would be the smart thing to do because there is NOTHING that transferred over to SGM.

Next best case would be that they have decided to keep it and use it as their "US" site. That would work as long as they don't eliminate Paypal and insist on payment direct to them, that would leave me out of it. At least it would still provide a place to park inventory.

Last would be a statement that Bidstart will be closed (pick a date) and it is time to onboard or punt, Not sure I would onboard with all the loose ends, the absolutely lousy search engine, the inane drill downs....you know, the fact it is still dysfunctional.

Anyway it is interesting that one of their largest dealers still has his SGM store closed to sales. You want to buy it must be through Bidstart. He was one of their biggest cheerleaders early on.

Gonna tart making popcorn the 31st so I'm ready.

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Dakota

27 Mar 2016
05:22:36pm

re: bidStart Dead???

April 1 for us April Fools who are still staying with them. I just tried it again. Nothing.

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bobstew617

27 Mar 2016
06:55:02pm

re: bidStart Dead???

Looks like it is back up again--at least it did for me this time.

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Dakota

01 Apr 2016
10:49:03am

re: bidStart Dead???

I see Bidstart was quite prompt on sending out the monthly invoice for the few sales I have had.

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Noernberg

01 Apr 2016
10:56:07am

re: bidStart Dead???

...just as I am prompt to withdraw my money after I make a rare sale on SGM!

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In loving memory of Carol, my wife for 52 years.

06 Apr 2016
08:28:23pm

Auctions - Approvals

re: bidStart Dead???

A post on the financial forum regarding SGM states that Henderson Global now has a 29% interest in Stanley Gibbons.

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Dakota

13 Apr 2016
04:51:52pm

re: bidStart Dead???

It looks like Bidstart is getting close to the end. It shows the items that I have listed and items sold. But there is no longer a Stores Directory. It appears that they have closed the stores.

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keesindy

13 Apr 2016
07:05:06pm

re: bidStart Dead???

It appears that several of us who had not yet closed our BidStart stores now have closed signs posted at our stores!

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Dakota

13 Apr 2016
07:22:13pm

re: bidStart Dead???

I just checked Bidstart again and my store has been resurrected.

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michael78651

13 Apr 2016
07:24:41pm

re: bidStart Dead???

up, down, up, down, opened, closed, open, closed - that's how to get prospective buyers to stop coming to a web site.

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In loving memory of Carol, my wife for 52 years.

14 Apr 2016
11:48:08am

Auctions - Approvals

re: bidStart Dead???

Wow - life on the Bidstart forums. An explanation from "Aron" - and a note from "SG" themselves ..... they finally noticed there was a problem and they claim to have actually fixed part of it !!!!!

Still apparently no listing capabilities and part of the "fix" to get your store open again may, um.... change things in your store a bit........

Still - there is life ...... where there is life there may be hope ...... note "may be hope" ....

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keesindy

15 Apr 2016
02:44:27pm

re: bidStart Dead???

I wouldn't be very hopeful under the circumstances. I don't know if they were hacked or if the store closures and associated problems were an unexpected consequence of some other action SG was taking. Either way, the site's future isn't very appealing.

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rwillis29

19 Apr 2016
12:28:15am

re: bidStart Dead???

What is this I won lots and seller canceled all lots I won he did not get what he wanted Wow. Don't bid on bidstart. Here is the email he sent. I bid on many lots lot of my bids were 5-20% CV. its not my fault no one bid aginst me

All your bidStart orders with me will be CANCELLED. Clearly there is something drastically wrong with bidStart. Did you really think I would sell any stamps at these ridiculous prices? Since you didn’t have the decency to email me to ask whether these prices were correct you have been blocked from entering my store.

Moderator's Note: This post was edited to remove personal identification information.



(Modified by Moderator on 2016-04-19 01:17:24)

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michael78651

19 Apr 2016
12:51:30am

re: bidStart Dead???

I'd report that SOB, and have him kicked off that site.

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rwillis29

19 Apr 2016
01:06:58am

re: bidStart Dead???

I did report him i haven't got a response yet. I even sent them a copy of the email. here is his store header APS member????? I should report him to the APS. I will see what bidstart will do.


Moderator's Note: This post was edited to remove personal identification information.


(Modified by Moderator on 2016-04-19 01:16:14)

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amsd

Editor, Seal News; contributor, JuicyHeads
19 Apr 2016
08:19:12am

Auctions

re: bidStart Dead???

Richard,

in no world with which I'm familiar may someone list items for auction and contend the opening bids were not going to be honored, unless there was a reserve function in place. Asking a buyer to confirm the price is unrealistic.

I assume he's not here, right?

If he's an APS member, his actions deserve note with their ethics board.

They would not be tolerated here for a second.

David

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19 Apr 2016
09:18:48am

re: bidStart Dead???

Please don't lump all bidStart Sellers in with this guy. This guy should be booted and reported to APS and any other associations he is a member of. By telling people not to use the site hurts a great number of ethical sellers.

Bob

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rwillis29

19 Apr 2016
09:24:50am

re: bidStart Dead???

That's right I should not said not to use bidstart. I have used it for years i will wait for there reply.
Richard

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19 Apr 2016
11:54:47am

re: bidStart Dead???

I'm wondering if dodgy sellers are predicting that the site is on it's last legs and they can can get away with pushing the envelope with impunity.

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khj

19 Apr 2016
12:48:03pm

re: bidStart Dead???

With all due respect to Richard, who has every right to be angry and who I recognize from my BidStart days as nothing short of an upstanding seller/buyer/member...

I think the seller got his due punishment with the 64 negatives that were inflicted (and from whatever other buyers he may have backed out on this time).

I don't know the seller personally, but also recognize him from my BidStart days, and he is definitely an above average seller, long-time collector, and long-time member of the APS.

To put things in perspective, the seller has close to 10,000 positive feedbacks without a single negative feedback until now. While the seller does have a couple of few questionable listings, it is well under the typical number of incorrect listings for sellers.

The transactions I'm looking at on SG BS are not Richard's, but from another bidder who was competing with him on those lots.

In the transactions I am looking at on SG BS, the items that the seller backed out on in the deal had a catalog value of roughly $10,000 and were purchased for a little over $100. This is not a case of a couple $100 purchased for $10. To be honest, I really don't expect (nor know of any seller that wouldn't take the negative feedback hit rather than...) to let $10,000 catalog of pretty good material go for just slightly more than 1% of catalog.

In my BidStart days, something like this has happened to me more than once (those who know me, know by penny ways). I pretty much let it slide every time. A couple of times, I even initiated the offer to drop the transactions, and ended up with a pretty good friendship. The difference, of course, is that I got a very NICE email from the seller explaining the situation, rather than a "in your face, mock the buyer" email. That was in really really bad taste on the seller's part and Richard has good reason to be angry for getting that email on his purchases!

But it is a matter of fact that SG BS is having huge listing problems right now. Perhaps the penny auction listings with no reserve was a listing mistake not recognized by the seller until after the fact. Perhaps SG themselves messed up the listing (have you read all the complaints about store/listings being messed up this year?).

The SG BS listing database in pretty badly messed up right now. A case in point, I went back to look at my purchases over the years (I do that to track down certain items sometimes). I was shocked to find items in my search history that I had purchased from the correct seller but at from a DIFFERENT site/source!!! (not eBay)

Somehow, SG BS had ported a small part of my purchase history from that seller and was displaying it, even though the purchase/listing had nothing to do with SG BS. Those purchases were from about 8 years ago!

We all know SG BS is having huge logistic problems right now. The seller should have taken out his anger at SG BS and himself instead of at Richard. For that, the seller should definitely be drawn and quartered. Beyond that, I would suggest just letting it go, and chalk it up to a foolish anger reaction by the seller. I know I've done that foolish anger reaction thing myself, not realizing/regretting until after the fact.

I'm not taking anybody to task here, other than the seller. Just offering additional info and a different perspective. JMHO.

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khj

19 Apr 2016
01:12:59pm

re: bidStart Dead???

I will update, and note that the seller has now initiated retaliatory negative feedback to his buyer(s), which is not only uncalled for, but the comment was extremely mean-spirited.

Obviously, the seller is still in foolish angry reaction mode.

This seller is only succeeding in destroying what's left of his original hard-earned good reputation.

A good seller, when unable to honor a sale, is apologetic and tries to make amends. Rather than lash out and blame the customer for his/her woes.

As I stated before, Richard has many good reasons to be angry.

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khj

19 Apr 2016
01:20:44pm

re: bidStart Dead???

I would also suggest to Richard, to avoid giving the negative feedback right now, since the seller is retaliating against buyers. SG BS has their hands full trying to solve coding problems right now, and I doubt they would have time to deal with this issue and erase and retaliatory feedback by the seller.

It's a shame when a seller can't just simply admit a mistake and try to make amends, rather than go the slash and burn route. I know Richard was always a great buyer/seller on BS. Fortunately, the good sellers far outnumber the bad sellers.

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michael78651

19 Apr 2016
02:13:47pm

re: bidStart Dead???

Back in the day I sold thousands of stamps on StampWants. Did I ever make a mistake in my listings? Certainly. Did buyers ever "seize the moment" and bid/buy such "bargains"? Most certainly. Was I upset? A little, but only at myself for the stupid typos. Did I honor the sale? Most definitely. It wasn't the buyers' fault. It was my own for not double checking before clicking on the submit button.

That seller definitely needs the boot on the butt.

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rwillis29

19 Apr 2016
11:48:33pm

re: bidStart Dead???

If he would have told me it was a mistake or typo we could have dissolved the problem. As for selling $100.00 to $200.00 starting at .01. I didn't thank anything wrong with it i do that myself. I got called to work and could not bid on the stamps any longer. I put a low bids on them to keep up on the ones i wanted That way i could control what i spend. if i put a max bid on all of the lots how do i stop. I may get some stamps cheeper and let other lots go that's an auction. And for feedback i have 42314 pos. on bidstart

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21 Apr 2016
07:22:31pm

re: bidStart Dead???

".... It's a shame when a seller can't just simply admit a mistake and try to make amends, rather than go the slash and burn route. ...."

It certainly is.
And it can happen over something as small as a fifteen cent stamp.

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Dakota

21 Apr 2016
08:05:06pm

re: bidStart Dead???

I see that Bidstart is not going to charge a Final Value fee on sales for the next week. This is a measure of good will for all of the problems they have been having. It shouldn't cost them much as there are any sales being made.

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khj

22 Apr 2016
02:21:31am

re: bidStart Dead???

Regarding the flaming seller -- I've looked over lots in question (501 items) and the feedback wars and what not.

I didn't ask the seller nor SG BS directly, but it does appear that there was some major mess-up in the auction listing, but not necessarily by the seller. The lots are pretty random and span a great range of price/countries/time/type, ranging from very low value items to $1000+ items (many $100+ items), all put up as penny auctions. It's almost as if store items going through the AUTOMATIC monthly re-list for that day suddenly got relisted as penny auctions instead. I should note that the SG BS boards do indicate major store listing problems for that week. What is clear is that SG has permitted the seller to cancel all those sales -- suggesting that there was an error by SG BS.

A pretty significant error. I did a rough addition without going through all 501 lots -- the total was already well past $20K catalog for mostly quality/premium material that went for barely a few $100s. I can understand the seller (previously 0 negative feedbacks) being shocked and angry.

Either way, it's no excuse for the seller taking it out on the buyers! The note he sent to all the buyers was absolutely rude. It's a shame, all those years of hard work building up a reputation, only to flush it all away with a foolish 4 line statement. If he had deleted the last 2 sentences and replaced them with an apology and free store credit to match the canceled winning bids, he would have a pretty decent private sale and might have earned a lot of good will. Alas, twas not to be.

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Roopster

26 Jul 2016
10:34:20am

re: bidStart Dead???

Press Release – Mark Rosenberg Agrees to Purchase bidStart from Stanley Gibbons

July 22, 2016 (Raleigh, NC) – Stanley Gibbons (US) Inc. and Mark Rosenberg are pleased to confirm that the latter has agreed to purchase bidStart from Stanley Gibbons for an undisclosed sum.

The deal will close on or before August 1, 2016.

The sale follows a review of Stanley Gibbons Ecommerce strategy in which it will refocus on serving collectors seeking rare and fine stamps and its world-renowned publications. Stanley Gibbons continued ownership of bidStart is at odds with this strategy and drove its desire to sell.

Mark Rosenberg, who recently launched HipStamp.com and HipComic.com, through his new venture Hip eCommerce, was the original founder and former owner of bidStart. He’s excited to bring the bidStart community and website back home, and is looking forward to working with bidStart’s over 100,000 members.

Stanley Gibbons recognizes that bidStart has a loyal customer and seller base and is delighted that these customers will continue to be served by the new owner.

Both parties share a passion for collectibles, and wish one another well in their endeavors to serve collectors and expand the market in the coming years.

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