Unfortunately, emotions extracted from the posts have sidetracked the original topic.
Back to the original topic, there are a lot of variables that changed the market. I may not live in SA, but most of the nation due to economic situation.
-Still a high unemployment rate which didn't really turn around until earlier this year.
The rate may be turning around, but there are lots of unemployed people out there.
-Standard of living is cheaper in SA compared to Austin or LA. However, it shouldn't fluctuate that much over the past 12 months so it's probably a small influence for the difference in rates compared to last year.
-More ladies are providing and it increases the supply when the demand may be diminishing. It will be the case in many cities. I recall watching MSNBC's special on the provider industry and how some ladies got into the business after being laid off from their office job and realized the flexibility and independence. You also have the young ladies who are anxious to make some income in the hobby.
-the perception of market rate may be applicable to the average price a hobbyist is willing to pay, but it's not applicable in all cases (i.e. think of average price and volume of Taco Bell vs. Chuy's vs. Pappasito's). Think market segments instead of a city only having one market. Interesting observation with retail stores in the past two years: while the mid-tier stores and high volume stores noticed the economic effect quickly, it took a lot longer for low volume high-end stores to feel it, like Neiman Marcus. I'm sure a few Spurs players are in the hobby and willing to shell out some $ for a good time.
-motivation to be a provider (adventure, paying the bills, flexibility, etc).
If it's a provider's only means of income, it may lead to higher volume which may bring the price/hour down.
If it's side income, a provider may decide to be low volume and raise the rate.
-the game itself is changing/evolving. I noticed more ladies are offering more on their menus & service ideas are expanding (offering more fantasy experience rather than just PSE). Coffee shops were just slinging coffee & snacks, but now they offer couches and free wi-fi as well as meals. I actually noticed the price of coffee going up.
Just some observations noticed from my little time in the hobby. It's just a different industry but the same dynamics economics can be applied.
Need some butter on that popcorn?
Originally Posted by xlurklt
Originally Posted by Sonya
