Abstract: Systems and methods are disclosed for underwriting a sale of shares of equity in a domain name. Domain information (including domain registrant, description, organizations, performance, business plans and risks) is submitted to a network of underwriters. Based on this information, the potential underwriters submit proposals to underwrite the sale of shares of equity in the domain name. The registrant selects a proposal, and the registrant and selected underwriter negotiate the number of shares and price per share.

Abstract: Systems and methods are disclosed for protecting a domain name during a sale of shares of equity in the domain name. Prior to and during the sale of shares of equity in the domain name, the domain name is moved into a holding account as collateral for the sale of shares of equity. This protection may include registrar protection, such as expiration protection or hijack protection, or legal protection and rights such as trademark protection (including specialized ICANN protections) and copyright protection. The domain owner may also make use of an Internet-related business setup, including e-commerce and web content design, development, coding and configuration.