Airbnb Needs to Win Over Policymakers – the Cost Is Adding Up

Airbnb portrays itself as a growth story. It will take a lot more lobbying spend in the future to clear a path for that expansion.

How is Airbnb going to grow in the face of virtual bans in places like New York City, and crackdowns around the world in places such as Spain and Italy?

Last week, for the first time, Airbnb acknowledged that the cash it spends to win over policymakers will contribute to lower profit margins.

Airbnb's shareholder letter stated that in the third quarter it anticipates that its adjusted EBITDA margin will be lower than a year earlier because of investments in new growth — which include Experiences, Services, and international expansion — as well as "policy initiatives."

"In recent years, global regulations have often targeted Airbnb in response to broader societal issues like housing," Airbnb told Skift in a statement. "Since last year, we’ve taken a strong stance to protect our