The company’s backing of a digital regulator comes after it won a landmark court case deeming it an online platform, not a property agent. It also said it would give cities the data to assess the impact of short-term rentals. It also said it would give cities the data to assess the impact of short-term rentals. (Reuters)

Talking point: With its newly defined identity, Airbnb will no longer be subject to the EU’s property regulations. It comes as the company, which plans to go public this year, has faced scrutiny from cities accusing it of exacerbating issues like housing crises. Chris Lehane, Airbnb senior vice-president of global policy, said having a regulator would ensure consistent mediation. But the company isn’t playing nice with all jurisdictions. As my colleague, Catherine McIntyre, reported this week, Airbnb continues to operate illegally in Oakville, Ont. in defiance of North America’s steepest licensing fees.