Using statistical techniques to analyze our database
of domain-name prices, we were able to find a significant positive
trend in prices from auction sales over the past 14 months. This
confirms the general feeling among the domain-name community that
prices are on the rise, especially with the recent sale of men.com
for $1.3 million.
This is the first scientific study of domain-name
price trends. The study complements our cross-sectional
analysis of domain names.
Using stepwise-linear-regression techniques and
a dummy variable for time, we found a significant trend factor
while controlling for other factors that influence domain-name
prices. The overall regression was significant; it explained 83%
of the variations in prices.
The database used was comprised of .com domain
names sold between November 2002 and December 2003. The prices
represent domain names sold on major auctions, as well as those
sold privately through our escrow service.