Alibaba
Alibaba refers to the Chinese multinational conglomerate specializing in e-commerce, retail, internet, and technology. Founded in 1999 by Jack Ma and others, Alibaba is best known for its online marketplace that connects manufacturers and consumers. It operates various platforms, including Alibaba.com, which facilitates wholesale trade, and Taobao and Tmall, which cater to retail consumers. The company also ventures into cloud computing, digital payment systems (through Alipay), and logistics services. Over the years, Alibaba has become one of the world's largest e-commerce companies, significantly shaping the online retail landscape both in China and globally. The brand name is inspired by the character Ali Baba from the folk tale "Ali Baba and the Forty Thieves" from "One Thousand and One Nights," symbolizing a portal to treasures and vast opportunities.