Airbnboost: Airbnb exceeded fourth-quarter revenue expectations with a 17% year-over-year increase to $2.22 billion despite reporting a net loss of $349 million due to significant nonrecurring expenses. The company outperformed adjusted earnings forecasts, announced a $6 billion stock buyback, and projected first-quarter revenue aligned with Wall Street expectations. Airbnb highlighted its growth and expansion plans, especially in international markets, and reported a 12% increase in nights and experiences booked. Despite a temporary setback from the Israel-Hamas conflict, demand remains strong, supported by an 18% increase in active listings and a 3% rise in average daily rates, signaling robust supply growth across all regions. (CNBC)

Zillowbnb: Zillow has introduced a new feature allowing users to search for and list individual rooms for rent, responding to the surge in U.S. rents and the increasing financial burden on renters post-pandemic. This addition caters to the growing demand for shared living spaces, especially among younger renters who face challenges in finding affordable housing and compatible roommates. Zillow's room listings aim to simplify the roommate search process, offering a diverse marketplace for various housing needs. This feature also benefits homeowners and landlords by providing an avenue to generate additional income and manage properties more dynamically. (Zillow)

Hotel Frenzy: In (un?)related news, the U.S. hotel construction sector is experiencing a significant upsurge, with a record-breaking 5,964 projects in the pipeline by the end of 2023, promising to add 693,963 new rooms nationwide, surpassing the previous peak in 2008. The South leads in project numbers, fueled by anticipated Federal Reserve interest rate cuts. The last quarter alone saw a 9% annual increase in projects, with upper-midscale and upscale hotels dominating. Forecasts show a 15% to 25% rise in hotel asset investments globally in 2024, highlighting luxury hotels as investor favorites. (Bisnow)

And now, speaking of Airbnb…Local governments and the platform are locked in an Airbnbattle. Municipalities will say they're protecting the housing market. Because, as we all know, nothing says 'community' like forcing tourists back into the loving arms of overpriced hotels.

'Welcome to our city! Please enjoy your stay in room 237, and don't mind the faint smell of despair mixed with continental breakfast.

Let’s go!