Booking.com confident AI won’t disrupt its market position
The company reassures investors that it is well-positioned to adapt to AI-driven changes, leveraging its data, brand strength, and partnerships to stay competitive
Booking Holdings CEO Glenn Fogel addressed concerns about agentic AI platforms disrupting the company, noting that similar fears have arisen in the past—such as when hotels built their own websites or when Google was expected to dominate travel bookings. He emphasized that Booking Holdings has a strong track record of adapting to technological changes and is actively working with top Silicon Valley players to stay ahead. The company is leveraging AI with tools like Priceline’s Penny AI and Booking.com’s AI trip planner while ensuring its data remains a competitive advantage.
Key takeaways
- History of adaptation: Fogel dismissed AI disruption concerns, citing Booking's ability to evolve and thrive amid past technological shifts;
- Data as a key asset: The company is focused on maintaining control over its proprietary data to remain competitive;
- AI investments: Booking Holdings has already integrated AI into its services with products like Priceline’s Penny AI and Booking.com’s trip planner;
- Economic considerations: CFO Ewout Steenbergen pointed out that agentic AI platforms require significant investment, making partnerships with Booking an attractive monetization option;
- Competitive landscape: With multiple AI-driven platforms emerging, Booking Holdings sees this as an opportunity rather than a threat.
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