Verisign, the official registry for .COM domains, has confirmed that prices will increase starting from September 1, 2024. This price adjustment will impact all new .COM domain registrations, renewals, and transfers. To avoid paying higher rates, it’s a good idea to register or renew your .COM domains at the current prices before the change takes effect. If possible, consider renewing for several years—up to 10 years—to lock in the current pricing for a longer period.
Impact on Businesses and Domain Owners
For businesses, especially those with a significant online presence, even a small increase in domain prices can have a substantial impact. This is particularly true for companies that manage multiple domains. Small businesses and startups, often operating on tight budgets, might feel the effects of this price increase more acutely. As the cost of maintaining a digital presence rises, it could lead to higher overall operational costs for businesses.
The uncertainty surrounding future price changes also complicates financial planning for businesses. Companies should factor in these potential increases when budgeting for their digital operations. For domain investors who own large portfolios of .COM domains, this price hike could reduce profit margins if the market doesn’t adjust to accommodate these higher costs.
Why Is This Price Increase Happening?
Verisign’s decision to increase .COM domain prices has been a topic of discussion for some time. Despite hopes that the increase might be postponed, Verisign has confirmed that the price hike will proceed as planned this September. Although there is talk of a temporary price freeze next year, long-term pricing strategies remain unclear, suggesting that further increases could be on the horizon. Staying informed and proactive is essential to mitigate any financial impact. One effective way to do this is to renew your domains for several years, up to a decade, to take advantage of current rates.
What This Means for Domain Owners
Starting September 1, 2024, domain owners will see a slight increase in the cost of .COM domains, estimated to be less than one USD before VAT. To avoid this price hike, consider registering or renewing your .COM domains before the new rates come into effect. By renewing for multiple years, you can secure the current pricing and protect yourself from future increases.
Conclusion
As the September price increase approaches, now is the time to act. Whether you’re a business owner, a domain investor, or an individual with a personal website, taking advantage of the current .COM domain pricing before the increase can save you money in the long run. Consider renewing your domains for several years to lock in the current rates and provide peace of mind amidst the uncertainty of future price changes.
