Airbnb Timed IPO Right, NYU's Damodaran Says

The transcript discusses Airbnb's decision to go public during the pandemic, highlighting the timing as favorable despite economic challenges. It explores how market conditions, rather than the economy, influence company valuations, especially for tech companies with low capital intensity. The pandemic has paradoxically benefited Airbnb by weakening its brick-and-mortar competitors. The role of the Federal Reserve and market dynamics in shaping these outcomes is also examined.

In what way does the speaker suggest that the market is treating companies like Airbnb differently now compared to a year ago?

What role does the Federal Reserve play in the current market dynamics according to the speaker?