Economist Podcasts Undercut a deal: the threat to Afghan peace
Nov 20, 2020
Daniel Knowles, an international correspondent in Kabul, discusses the precarious state of the Afghan peace process amid the Taliban's growing control. He highlights the tensions arising from the U.S. troop withdrawal and its implications for stability in the region. Meanwhile, Tamsin Booth examines the booming food delivery industry, focusing on DoorDash's upcoming IPO and the pandemic's shift in consumer habits. She also addresses the ethical concerns for gig workers in this rapidly changing market.
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Industry Growth
- Tamsin Booth highlights the food delivery industry's change, especially with DoorDash's IPO.
- Astonishing growth in revenue is evident, as seen with Uber Eats' 125% increase.
Sustained Growth?
- While the pandemic boosted growth, the question of sustained profitability remains.
- DoorDash acknowledges potential slowdown post-pandemic, but habit changes and increased restaurant participation suggest some lasting effects.
Profitability Challenges
- The shift from middleman to logistics operation impacted profitability in food delivery.
- Slim profit margins result from splitting order value between restaurants, drivers, and the delivery company, exacerbated by intense competition.