Sharing economy
The sharing economy is the set of models in which individuals share, exchange, rent or sell goods and services to one another, usually through digital platforms
What it means, how it is used and where it comes up, with its related concepts.
What it is and how it works
It ranges from car sharing and holiday lets to selling second-hand items and swapping skills. Platforms connect the parties and usually include ratings and payment systems that build trust between strangers.
The term is sometimes used loosely for companies that provide professional services through a platform rather than enabling peer-to-peer exchange, which is why some prefer the term platform economy. Its growth has sparked debates on taxation, labour rights, housing and competition with regulated sectors.
Also known as
collaborative economy, collaborative consumption, peer-to-peer economy
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