On the surface, I agree this is a strange PR tactic that hasn't been followed by any private company I can think of recently .
I think it's entirely possible that they are doing this because they expect to have to deal with whatever legal/regulatory issues they face around the world that have been in a grey area since they started and this is basically an invitation to regulators to do something now so that regulatory risks won't be perceived to be this massive red flag to investors as they shop the IPO around.
I'd for sure argue that regulation is Airbnb's greatest existential threat, especially at a time when we're all acutely aware of how expensive housing has become in urban centers where Airbnb makes most of their money.
IPO are basically a big-ass roadshow - you need to drum up excitement with institutional investors so they start salivating at the possible money they can make.
This does seem early, but I’m sure there is some rationale to stay on the big bank’s radar screens and have them knocking down Airbnb’s door to be the lead bank on this deal.
I’m sure someone from investment banking will be along to add some color.
tempsy|6 years ago
I think it's entirely possible that they are doing this because they expect to have to deal with whatever legal/regulatory issues they face around the world that have been in a grey area since they started and this is basically an invitation to regulators to do something now so that regulatory risks won't be perceived to be this massive red flag to investors as they shop the IPO around.
I'd for sure argue that regulation is Airbnb's greatest existential threat, especially at a time when we're all acutely aware of how expensive housing has become in urban centers where Airbnb makes most of their money.
mcintyre1994|6 years ago
rolltiide|6 years ago
refurb|6 years ago
This does seem early, but I’m sure there is some rationale to stay on the big bank’s radar screens and have them knocking down Airbnb’s door to be the lead bank on this deal.
I’m sure someone from investment banking will be along to add some color.