Airbnb stories

Language learning platform Preply secures $150 million to boost AI tools and global growth, valuing the business at $1.2 billion.

Adobe has named Lucius DiPhillips CIO, tasking the ex-Airbnb technology chief with driving its global tech operations and AI transformation.

Revolut launches RevPoints in New Zealand, offering uncapped rewards on everyday spending redeemable for travel, airline miles and gift cards.

In 2025, hotel bookings shift as travellers favour value and shorter stays, with OTAs like Expedia and Trip.com seeing strong growth amid rising price sensitivity.

Commvault unveils Clumio for Apache Iceberg on AWS, offering air-gapped, Iceberg-aware backups to strengthen AI and analytics data lakehouse security.

Huckleberry, an AI voice platform, revolutionises workplace feedback by enabling quick, accessible 360-degree reviews without HR involvement.

Visa has appointed Meble Tin as Head of Marketing for Oceania, leading efforts from Sydney to boost brand and client engagement across the region.

Buildkite has named Kevin Gounden as CEO to spearhead growth and AI innovation in its software delivery platform used by top firms worldwide.

Roofbuddy has transformed roofing trades with tech, completing 3,594 orders worth NZD $78.7 million, speeding quotes from 24 days to 24 hours.

Tray.ai launches an AI-powered ITSM Agent that automates routine IT support, cutting human tickets by 75%, boosting efficiency across major firms.

Boman Group has appointed Eva Zhuang as a Partner, making her the first woman in the role, as the firm prepares to launch new funds in 2024.

In 2024, Kaspersky blocked over 893 million phishing attempts, a 26% rise from 2023, as cybercriminals exploited trusted brand names to deceive users.

Malt has named Claire Lebarz as its new Chief Technology Officer while she maintains her position as Chief Data and AI Officer, joining the Executive Committee.

Australia is set to lead global hotel bookings in 2024, with 86% made by Australians, as direct website reservations hit an average of AUD $778.

Ecommpay has launched its Payouts via Hosted Payment Page feature, streamlining payment processes for businesses lacking beneficiary information.

As Australia and New Zealand gear up for 2025, organisations are grappling with productivity and data management challenges, warns expert Mark Jobbins.

Airbnb has launched its Co-Host Network, allowing local experts to manage properties, helping homeowners earn income without the daily management hassles.

Contrarian advice for tech founders: avoid early capital raising, don't aim for unicorn status, embrace unscalable tasks, and ignore early awards.

Endor Labs reveals major security flaws in CocoaPods, threatening apps like Instagram and Uber. Critical CVEs could impact Swift and Objective-C supply chains.

Quadient’s partnership with KeyNest enhances the UK's key exchange network by integrating smart locker technology, simplifying secure key transfers for property professionals and hosts.