[quickthrower2]

Marketing. At first people needed to know about Uber. Then they needed to trust Uber. But now they need to carry on using Uber instead of the competitors.

I think if the tech investment bubble bursts (if it is a bubble) then this makes it easier for Uber in terms of competition as ride prices will tend towards the original "Taxi" prices and people will have to get used to that. And then Uber can make their profit (and also the drivers can make a reasonable living).

[DeathArrow]

In my country Uber is more expensive than taxis. Sometimes much more expensive during rush hours or busy days or holidays. A lady I know payd 10x the price for a taxi ride because it was new Years Eve.