As it works to build its platform, Uber has two huge advantages. The first is a set of deep-pocketed and patient investors, who are willing to cover Uber’s costs while it scales. These initial costs—for technology development, marketing, driver recruiting, staffing, and so on—are substantial, and Uber was estimated to have raised more than $15 billion in loans and investments by July 2016 to fund its global growth. Investors have been willing to supply
