What does Bill Gross argue was a key factor to Airbnb's success in their startup?

Bill Gross identifies the timing of Airbnb's launch as a significant factor in its success. Specifically, Airbnb emerged during a post-recession era when there was a growing desire for peer-to-peer sharing and more trust among individuals. This environment was conducive to the acceptance of sharing economy models, which challenge traditional hospitality norms. People were increasingly open to staying in someone else's home as opposed to traditional hotel accommodations, primarily because they began to trust the integrity of the platforms that facilitated these transactions.

Airbnb capitalized on this cultural shift towards sharing and trust, allowing them to build a user base that felt comfortable engaging in what was previously considered a risky proposition. The timing of their entry into the market aligned perfectly with consumer behavior that was becoming more accepting of alternative lodging arrangements. This contextual alignment is crucial in understanding why Airbnb was able to gain traction quickly and grow into a successful enterprise. The other options do not reflect the nuanced impact of social trends and market conditions that played a vital role in their early acceptance and growth.