Brian Chesky

Airbnb Inc is laying off 25 percent of its workforce, or nearly 1,900 employees, the home rental startup said on Tuesday, as the Covid-19 pandemic brings global travel to a near standstill.

"Airbnb's business has been hit hard, with revenue this year forecasted to be less than half of what we earned in 2019," founder Brian Chesky said in a memo to employees.

U.S. President Donald Trump's border clampdown has stirred Starbucks and Airbnb along with many others to help those affected by the temporary immigration ban -- pledging to hire more refugees and provide accommodation.