Uber launched its IPO on May 10th, with an initial
share price of USD 45.00 per share. Despite a potential
undervaluation of the business of at least USD 25 billion, Uber
failed to attract the attention of investors and only managed to
raise USD 8.1 billion. An array of scandals and controversies that
the company had to contend with over the past several years may
have led to the company's uninspiring launch. Examples hereof
include Kalanick referring to his desirability as
"Boob-er", proven allegations that the company booked
fake rides on Lyft's app, spying on the movements of
celebrities such as Beyoncé, and even launching a
self-driving program without having obtained the necessary permits.
These events eventually culminated in a series of revelations in
2017 that ended with Travis Kalanick stepping down as CEO.
