Uber, Lyft shares soar over 15% after California ballot victory

Uber and Lyft stocks soared on Wednesday after California voters endorsed the gig economy’s blistering campaign not to count drivers as employees, even as questions loomed over whether the companies can secure similar privileges in other US states.

Voters in California on Tuesday backed a ballot proposal by Uber Technologies Inc, Lyft Inc and its allies that cements app-based food delivery and ride-hailing drivers’ status as independent contractors, rather than employees.

According to state figures, 58 per cent supported the measure, with nearly 99 per cent of precincts at least partially reporting. The results are incomplete and must also be certified. Uber’s shares rose 16 per cent, while Lyft jumped 18 per cent.