The Influence of Airbnb Announcements on North American Capital Markets: Insights for Stakeholders

Abstract

This research investigates the burgeoning peer-to-peer (P2P) economy, exemplified by platforms such as Airbnb, and its implications within the North American context. The study focuses on understanding the repercussions of Airbnb announcements on capital markets, concentrating specifically on the travel and tourism sector and the real estate sector. The findings unveil a discernible augmentation in index returns preceding the announcement’s publication in both sectors. However, a notable divergence manifests post-announcement: while the real estate sector sustains an upward trajectory in returns, the travel and tourism sector experiences a post-publication decline. These results underscore the strategic advantage available to investors with early access to Airbnb announcements, enabling them to capitalize on excess profits. Furthermore, the broader investor community can leverage the insights gleaned from Airbnb announcements for financial gains. A nuanced examination of regression results reveals the substantial impact of macroeconomic variables on index returns in both the travel and tourism sector and the real estate sector. These insights contribute to a more nuanced understanding of the intricate dynamics shaping these economic domains.