Hi,

The reigning gig-economy companies — Uber, Lyft, Airbnb — have at first glance suffered badly from the pandemic-induced downturn. Airbnb delayed its IPO, and the ride-hailing stocks have taken a hit.

On the August 19 episode of Pivot Schooled, “The Sharing Capitalists,” Scott and Kara will dive into the business models of these companies — and why their variable cost structure may actually strengthen their market position in the long term.

For the Friend of Pivot segment, they’ll interview Uber CEO Dara Khosrowshahi.

While revenue from Uber’s core ride-hailing line of business has declined, demand for food delivery is at an all-time high. And Uber recently announced it would acquire Postmates in a $2.65 billion all-stock deal.

Together, Uber Eats and Postmates claim 37 percent market share, trailing DoorDash’s 45 percent. If unchallenged, the acquisition will significantly consolidate a previously competitive sector, potentially raising antitrust flags.

Kara and Scott will ask Dara all about this acquisition, about California’s labor policies, and how he’s navigating this unique moment. Register now to tune in for the live interview:

PS: $20 from every Pivot Schooled ticket sold between June 29 and September 2, 2020, will be used to support communities in crisis.