Domain News

After organizing the largest event for the Domain Industry with their recent DomainFEST Global in Santa Monica, Oversee.net’s DomainSponsor unit has now announced the dates and location for their European event. DOMAINfest Europe will be held from October 6-7th in Prague in the Czech Republic at the InterContinental Hotel. The addition of the European event clearly underlines the company’s commitment of establishing a presence in Europe after opening an office in Frankfurt, Germany late last year. The event will also feature a live domain auction. Agenda and speaker details will be announced in June.

(c) 2009 DomainNameNews.com

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Original post by Frank Michlick

IDG’s PCWorld just published an article by Jared Newman about 15 Internet Annoyances and how to fix them. Of course the author thinks that parked domains are one of them, even if they may actually get the user to where they want to go. So Newman recommends all domains that involve framed parking on the Oversee.net owned Information.com domain:

13. This Web Site is Bogus

Sometimes when you mistype a URL or click an old, abandoned link, you’ll come upon these junky Web sites filled with useless links, a search bar that returns who-knows-what and a deliciously ironic slogan, “What you need, when you need it.” This is the work of cybersquatters, who occupy Web sites in hopes that you’ll click on those links and make them some money.

The Fix: Firefox users can once again use BlockSite to turn one major cybersquatter’s Web sites into blank pages–just add “*.information.com” to your restricted list. This will foil one major cybersquatter whos sites always refer back to that domain, but unfortunately the same trick doesn’t work in Internet Explorer’s list of restricted sites. No matter what browser you’re in, never give squatters the satisfaction of clicking on anything.

Of course the article also calls anyone who would re-register and park a previously registered and expired domain a cybersquatter, forgetting that the term implies an actual infringement on someones trademark. Maybe we should add journalists who do not do proper research to the list? I guess I could post that as a comment on his article, but then again, that would require registration on the site, which also is one of the annoyances he lists.

(c) 2009 DomainNameNews.com

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Original post by Frank Michlick

After Oversee.net’s CEO and president toured Europe Jeff Kupietzky earlier this year, the company is now planning to open up a European office. DomainSponsor, the companies’ domain parking brand had also held an “elite retreat” for their European publishers earlier this year. The European division will be set up by Joerg Schnermann as the General Manager, who is Markus Schnermann’s (of DomainInvest and Keyworddomains) brother, supported by Joe Higgins and Jessica Besseling, who returned to the company after working as Business Development Director at DDC. Jessica and Joe have both extensively worked with the European domain space.

“The European market is considered to be the fastest growing sector in the global domain space,” said Peter Celeste, Oversee.net Senior Vice President and General Manager of Domain Services. “This is a significant milestone for DomainSponsor. We’re delighted to welcome such a talented core team of seasoned domain industry experts. They understand local needs and will help build on existing relationships and establish new ones within the European community.”

(c) 2009 DomainNameNews.com

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Upcoming Domain Industry Events, Conferences & Auctions

Original post by Frank Michlick

DOMAINFest Global 2010, which will be held by Oversee.net in Santa Monica from January 26-28th, 2009,  in  has just announced the addition of PITCHfest and LAUNCHfest.

PITCHfest allows five pre-selected finalists to make 5 minute presentations of their new products ideas to the audience and a panel of judges. While the audience will be able to select their favorite by voting via text-messages, the winner will be picked by the judges.

With LAUNCHfest the pre-selected applicants get to present their vision how to develop one of ten given domain names. Again the winner will be selected on a point based system by a panel of judges and the audience gets to show their choice as well. The winner will be able to lease/purchase his selected domain name and start development on the project. The names in this contest are:

Editor’s comment:

At the first DOMAINFest GLOBAL, the conference already had a similar event where participants where able to pitch Michael Arrington of TechCrunch fame with a business idea and receive candid 1-on-1 feedback. Peter Ejtel and myself took this amazing opportunity to gather feedback on our then new startup SharedReviews.

Unfortunately it seems that this time the contests are limited to US participants, considering this is DOMAINfest GLOBAL, but most likely this is necessary due to the different contest laws worldwide 

(c) 2009 DomainNameNews.com

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Original post by Frank Michlick

DOMAINfest Global 2010 — the premier domain industry event taking place at the Fairmont Miramar Hotel in Santa Monica, California from January 26-28 — is now open for registration.

The theme for this year’s event is “Domain Names: Overlooked. Underutilized. Essential to Online Marketing Success.” There will be a number of industry experts on hand to lead relevant sessions such as “Turning Killer Domain Names Into Killer Websites”, “Domain Names: How Prime Internet Real Estate Builds SEO and SEM Success”, and “New gTLDs: Bonanza or Bust?”

The early bird discounted rate is $895 and will be available through to September 30, 2009. Click here to register today.

[via DOMAINfest]

Original post by Chad Kettner

DomainSponsor has announced that DOMAINFest Global, the largest event in the domain name industry, will be moving to the Fairmont Miramar Hotel, a stunning beach venue located in Santa Monica, California.

The event, which was previously held in Los Angeles and Hollywood, will take place from January 26-28, 2010.

Online registration will open on August 15 with the Early Bird special rate of $895 lasting through September 30. The registration will increase to $1,095 on October 1.

[via DomainFest.com]

(c) 2009 DomainNameNews.com

DomainConvergence | August 12-13, 2009 | Toronto, ON, Canada

Original post by Chad Kettner

Domainers will have the chance to rub shoulders with Hollywood celebrities and athletes at DomainSponsor’s fundraising event for Autism Speaks, which will be held at the Playboy Mansion on Thursday, January 29, during DOMAINfest Global.

Some of the celebrities and athletes planning to attend the event include Brady Anderson (Cleveland Indians), Kenny Lofton (Cleveland Indians), Jose Canseco (Chicago White Sox), Clyde Drexler (NBA Hall of Famer), Sugar Shane Mosley (boxer), Bernard Hopkins (boxer), Brian Bosworth (NFL), Orlando Jones (actor and comedian), Brande Roderick (actress and Playboy playmate), Claudia Jordan (actress and model), Alana Curry (actress and model), and Rebecca Grant (actress and model).

The fundraiser event, called “Model Citizens”, is the official farewell party for DOMAINfest conference attendees.

(c) 2009 DomainNameNews.com

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Original post by Chad Kettner

DomainSponsor has published the final DOMAINfest agenda and it looks like the conference is once again set to be the premier event of the year for expert insights and opinions on the many changes impacting the domain, search, and advertising industries.

DOMAINfest Global 2009 - which is being held at the Renaissance Hotel in Hollywood, California, from January 28-30 - will feature many of the industry’s most recognizable names including Steve Hisey (Oversee.net), Elliot Silver (Silver Internet Ventures, LLC), Pinkard Alan “Pinky” Brand (dotMobi), Larry Fischer (DirectNavigation.com), Mike “Zappy” Zapolin (Internet Real Estate Group, LLC), John Berryhill, Ron Jackson (DN Journal), Monte Cahn (Moniker/Oversee.net), and many more.

There will be an in-depth domainer boot-camp for beginners to jump-start their business; two live Moniker domain auctions featuring both high and low end domains; a keynote address on technology, innovation, and change by Steve Wozniak, the world-renowned entrepreneur and co-founder of Apple Computer; and two exclusive  parties, one at Universal Studios Hollywood and the other at the Playboy Mansion.

Plus, you’ll get the chance to hang out with Frank and Adam of DNN as Adam will be presenting on Domain Industry Trends at the pre-conference boot camp on January 27.

Check out all the conference details after the jump…

Agenda for Wednesday, January 28

• Domaining 2.0 - What Does the Next Evolutionary Phase of Our Industry Look Like? - This session focuses on trends driving the industry and includes thought leaders Gregg McNair (Strata Services Limited), Nico Zeifang (Zeifang.com), Ofer Ronen (Sendori), Michael Berkens (Worldwide Media, Inc.) and Steve Hisey (Oversee.net).
• Keynote Featuring Steve Wozniak - The legendary entrepreneur and co-founder of Apple Computer will share his perspective on technology, innovation, and change.
• Domain Build-out Showcase - This session features several speakers who have built domains into thriving businesses including the Castello Brothers (Castello Cities Internet Network, Inc), Elliot Silver (Silver Internet Ventures, LLC), Pinkard Alan “Pinky” Brand (dotMobi), Ari Goldberger (ESQwire.com), Rick Waters (Webcast1), and Larry Fischer (DirectNavigation.com).
• Domain Build-out Nuts and Bolts - A wide range of domain industry experts will offer specific advice about their particular area of expertise including SEO/SEM, affiliate marketing, branding, and content. The panelists include Danny Sullivan (Search Engine Land), Lee Gientke (OrangeSoda), Mike “Zappy” Zapolin (Internet Real Estate Group, LLC), Michael Zacharski (CPX Interactive), Jamie MacMillan (LinkShare), Bruce Clay (Bruce Clay, Inc.) and Alex Gardner (Casale Media).

Agenda for Thursday, January 29

• What Can We Expect from the Legal and Regulatory Environment? - This session will provide the fresh perspective of Doug Brent (ICANN) and David McGuire (463 Communications).
• The Google Perspective: Winning over the Advertiser and Optimizing Site Performance through Analytics - Google executives Matt Parry and Hal Bailey will share their knowledge of the evolving analytical tools available and show you how to get ahead faster by optimizing your portfolio through higher conversion rates.

Moniker Auctions: DOMAINfest Global 2009 will feature two Moniker live domain auctions.

• The Low and No Reserve Auction will take place on Tuesday, January 27 from 7:00-8:00 p.m. PST with live and online bidding.
• The Premium Live Auction is scheduled for Thursday, January 29 from 1:30-5:00 p.m. PST with live and online bidding.
• There will also be an Extended Online Auction available from January 29 until February 5 and will only involve online bidding.

Welcome Party at Universal Studios Hollywood - DOMAINfest Global has reserved the best area of the famous park for conference attendees to enjoy. You’ll get transportation to and from the theme-park, full access to two of the park’s best rides (without waiting in line), a behind-the-scenes tour of the studios and sets used in many popular TV shows and movies, and great food and beverages all evening long.

DomainSponsor Party at the Playboy Mansion - DomainSponsor is putting on a fundraiser party benefiting Autism Speaks at the legendary Playboy Mansion. DOMAINfest guests join Hollywood celebrities and professional athletes at the party which includes a guided tour of the mansion grounds, a silent auction on sports memorabilia, music and dancing, and unforgettable memories.

Pre-Conference Boot Camp for Tuesday, January 27

• Domain Industry Trends: What’s Your Action Plan? - Andrew Allemann (DomainNameWire.com), Michael Gilmour (WhizzBangsBlog.com), and DNN’s own Adam Strong will discuss the latest trends and demonstrate how business models should be modified to capitalize on the changes along the way.
• Domain Monetization 101 & 201 - Howard Hoffman (PPC Income, Inc), Leonard Holmes (ParkQuick), Donny Simonton (Parked), Randy Charach (Synergy Domains Inc.), and Sam Tseng (DomainSponsor) will share their insights on the critical factors to consider when weighing monetization options.
• Legal Issues to Consider as You Build Your Business - William Delgado, Paul Keating, Derek Newman, and John Berryhill will discuss the latest legal issues to consider in creating and building a domain business.
• The Art & Science of Buying and Selling Domains - Anthos Chrysanthou (Lease Domains, Inc.), Lance Wolak (.ORG), Ron Jackson (DN Journal), Monte Cahn (Moniker/Oversee.net), and Kathy Nielson (Sedo) will discuss different strategies for buying and selling domains.

As the slogan says…DOMAINfest Global ‘09 is all about Anticipating, Confronting, and Confronting Change…Are You Ready?

[via Domain Informer and DOMAINfest Global 2009]

Original post by Chad Kettner

Oversee.net, the parent company of DomainSponsor, Moniker, Snapnames and DomainFest has layed off another round of employees today. Rumor has it that about 15% 18% (39 people) of the current workforce were affected according to Mason Cole, Oversee.net VP of Communications.

On DomainNameWire Mason Cole stated:

Oversee is reorganizing its businesses because it expects a very difficult economic environment in 2009. As part of the reorganization, we have had an 18% reduction in force, including some managers.

Oversee will focus over the next year in the areas where it has a leadership position. Going forward, areas of focus include: Domain name monetization, Domain name aftermarket, Registrar, and Travel.

Accordingly, we’ve discontinued activity or investment in areas that aren’t as promising (mortgage, for example). The reduction is a result of the refocusing on key areas.

In August of 2008 Oversee.net had layed off 10% of their staff.

(c) 2009 DomainNameNews.com

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Original post by Frank Michlick

Domain Name News received word today that the DomainFest Global conference farewell party will be a fundraising event held at the legendary Playboy Mansion in Los Angeles.

Attendees from the DOMAINfest Global conference will join with Hollywood celebrities and star athletes at the charity event benefiting AutismSpeaks.  The party will also feature a live sports memorabilia auction by Bang The Gavel.  More details will likely be forthcoming on the official DomainFest Global website.

(c) 2008 DomainNameNews.com

Help plan DomainConvergence 2009, participate in the survey.

Original post by Adam Strong

DomainSponsor, the organizer of DOMAINfest Global, has published the official agenda for 2009 event which will take place at the Renaissance Hollywood Hotel in Hollywood, California, from January 28-30, as well as the pre-event Boot Camp on January 27.

The Boot Camp is intended for beginner or intermediate domainers who want to take their investment strategies to the next level. There will be four seassions with expert speakers dicussing the fundamentals of domaining:

• Domain Industry Trends - What’s Your Action Plan?
• Domain Monetization 101 and 201
• Legal Issues to Consider as You Build Your Business
• The Art & Science of Buying and Selling Domains

The main event starts on Wednesday, January 28, and features a full-day of learning as well as plenty of networking activities:

• Domaining 2.0TM: What Does the Next Evolutionary Phase of Our Industry Look Like?
• Keynote: Steve Wozniak on Conquering Change in the Technology Space
• Domain Build-Out Showcase: Examples of Winning Build-Outs
• Domain Build-Out Nuts and Bolts - What You Need to Know to Succeed

On Wednesday night there will be a reception and dinner party at Universal Studios from 7:30-11:30 which includes exclusive access to the best areas of the park including the rides and studio tours.

Thursday, January 29, has two main sessions before the Moniker Live Auctions kick off:

• What Can We Expect from the Legal and Regulatory Environment?
• The Google Perspective: Winning over the Advertiser and Optimizing Site Performance through Analytics

The Moniker live domain auctions will offer a collection of exceptionally valuable premium domain names. Participants can either bid in person or online. For more information on the auctions, click here.

A farewell dinner is scheduled at a soon-to-be-announced “world-renowned entertainment venue” for Thursday night.

Visit the homepage of DOMAINfest Global 2009 for more details about the event as well as information on how to register.

(c) 2008 DomainNameNews.com

Saws.com , Medicinas.com , Coed.com - All For Sale at Aftermarket.com Online Domain Auction November 20th . Click here to register for the auction.

Original post by Chad Kettner

Moniker announced today that all of their Domain Parking customers in the TrafficClub program are to be moved to DomainSponsor.

From the announcement email: Due to other opportunities and future enhancements to our domain monetization strategy, we have decided to fully migrate all TrafficClub services to DomainSponsor effective January 31. On that day, we will convert customer accounts automatically to DomainSponsor.

[via The Domains]

(c) 2008 DomainNameNews.com

Visit our Calendar of Domain Industry Events.

domainsponsor, moniker, oversee.net, PPC industry, trafficclub

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Original post by Frank Michlick

Oversee.net announced today that they have “executed a definitive agreement with Oak Hill Capital Partners, a private equity firm, for an investment of $150 million in Oversee.net’s holding company.” The company also secured a $60 million revolving credit facility a year ago and purchased a number of companies and domain portfolios.

According to Oversee, the funds will be used to augment organic growth and acquire technologies that will enhance its suite of services in the online marketing and domain name industries.

Oversee made the announcement this morning on their website it and was also covered by TechCrunch.

(c) 2008 DomainNameNews.com

Looking for the next domain industry event? Visit DNCalendar.com.

domainsponsor, investment, moniker, News, oak hill capital partners, oversee.net, private equity, Snapnames, techcrunch

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Original post by Frank Michlick

After the recent purchase of Moniker by Oversee.net, Skenzo has now announced that they will no longer be offering their monetization to customer’s of Moniker’s TrafficClub domain parking platform. They posted the following note on their website:

(more…)

Los Angeles, CA ( November 20, 2007) - DomainSponsor(tm), the domain monetization business of Oversee.net, today announced that John Battelle, an Internet visionary and best selling author, and Peter Hillary, son of Sir Edmond Hillary and world-class adventurer, will be keynote speakers at the second annual DOMAINfest(tm) Global event scheduled for January 21-23, 2008 in Hollywood, California.

John Battelle is the best selling author of The Search: How Google and Its Rivals Rewrote the Rules of Business and Transformed Our Culture and a co-founding editor of Wired Magazine. He is an acclaimed thought leader on the tech-driven transformation of business, the economy, and culture. He is also a founder and Executive Producer of the Web 2.0 and Foursquare conferences. Most recently, Battelle founded and serves as CEO for Federated Media.

Peter Hillary has achieved two summits of Mount Everest and has more than 25 years of experience in extreme risk environments. Carrying on his father’s spirit of adventure, he has completed 36 other mountaineering expeditions, was involved in the development of a new route across Antarctica to the South Pole, and was the first to have traversed the length of the Himalayas.

In commenting on DOMAINfest’s keynote speakers, Lawrence Ng, Chief Executive Officer and Co-founder of Oversee.net said, “We want our publisher clients to have the best context for the search industry and there is no one better than John Battelle to provide that. When it comes to risk taking and the entrepreneurial spirit that defines our day-to-day accomplishments, only a Peter Hillary could give us that perspective. We are excited and honored to have both of them join us.”

DOMAINfest will also feature Frank Schilling, one of the world’s most famous domainers, to host the conference’s first Domainer Town Hall. This, coupled with an agenda filled with new content - segmented by experience level - and quality learning and networking opportunities, makes for an exceptional event.

[press release]

domainfest, domainsponsor, Events, frank schilling, john batelle, keynote, Lawrence NG, News, oversee.net, peter hillary

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Original post by Frank Michlick