Airbnb has raised $1.5 billion in one of the largest private equity fundings ever which values the short-term rental service at an incredible $25.5 billion, more than the Marriott or Starwood. According to the Wall Street Journal, the funding was led by private equity firm General Atlantic, Chinese firm Hillhouse Capital Group and investment firm Tiger Global Management, buying about a third of the offered shares. Airbnb’s revenue is expected to surpass $900 million this year, well over the $250 million in revenue it reported in 2013. While it faces regulatory challenges in New York, is projected to reach $10 billion in earnings in 2020.
