It sounds like it is pending sale based on a conversation I have had with a third party.

I agree, $5k USD for ChinaBitcoin [.com] is an absolute steal.

A bit more interesting though, the owner of IndiaBitcoin [.com] and ColombiaBitcoin [.com] is Mr. Sunny Ray who is the Director of Business Development at Buttercoin [.com] who is backed by Google Ventures and Y-Combinator.
 

Some nice news just came across my desk and wanted to pass along for your viewing pleasure.

FranceBitcoin [.com] - is for sale by the owner for a flat fee of 30 Bitcoins

CanadaBitcoin [.com] - is for sale by the owner for "double digit Bitcoin offers only"

ArgentinaBitcoin [.com] - is NOT for sale according to the owner, regardless of price

NetherlandsBitcoin [.com] - is NOT for sale according to the owner, regardless of price

ChinaBitcoin [.com] - is for sale by the owner for a flat fee of $5,000 USD

UAEBitcoin [.com] - is for sale by the owner for a flat fee of 60 Bitcoins

Bitcoin [.me] - Just sold on SEDO for $10,000 according to TheDomains which is an industry leading blog owned and operated by a very successful and knowledgable domain investor.

Here is the post:  http://www.thedomains.com/2014/01/02/bitcoin-me-sells-for-10000/

These names have great potential in the right hands. Local "geo-domains" have a very strong track record and create a timeless brand advantage in my opinion. It's only a matter of time until the Bitcoin market expands and the digital marketing follows.

LocalMediaBrands.com is a startup company focusing on SMB digital marketing. Although currently under construction, they accept Bitcoin.

Hi ScottJV.

Thanks for your nice comment.

I'm not sure when I will update the list to be honest. Maybe I'll just post on the 28th of each month to make it simple. It will be interesting to see the growth with the existing popular markets, but more so, the rise in new searches for new countries entering in to the world of Bitcoin.

Hi CoinRevo.

Thanks for the note, however, I have to professionally disagree with your perspective.

If Toyota and Honda release their global sales figures for Q4 on their investor relations call, does that suggest the entire market spend, and or trend? Think of it this way. Even if every single major Bitcoin related website posted their traffic data, (which they would never do), it still only offers a limited scope in to the global movement.

As an example, in Germany or lets say Australia, Google has IP-based solutions with Google.de and Google.com.au for those markets. That being said, many companies tend to use country-specific (geo-targeted) campaigns for a tailored audience. That being said however, the term "global" is interesting as it relates to country-specific Google websites as the organic and paid content is usually inconsistent. Further to my point, if you search with these "Country + Bitcoin" search queries you can find country specific archives, startup companies, and general hyper-local news content that doesn't always penetrate your local U.S. city news stand.

And so, at least in my opinion, there is tremendous value in watching the country-by-country developments from behind the scenes. It's pretty impressive to see the countless and growing number of entities that are paying for targeted web traffic to promote Bitcoin through their independent platforms. At the end of the day, no matter how "digital and global" Bitcoin is, the Internet is-and-has-been trending LOCAL for years now and these "Country + Bitcoin" searches (organic and PPC data) alongside the exact match domain assets will rise in value accordingly.

Hello, friends.

I'm dropping off some more Bitcoin research for those interested.

As the global Bitcoin network and eco-system continue to grow I have been logging (since October) very specific data sets on "anything Bitcoin" ranging from the USPTO intellectual property database, new business filings, premium Bitcoin domain name asset sales and development, and most importantly perhaps, (other than the venture capital news of course), Google search query volumes for Bitcoin related searches.

The research below identifies the average monthly searches for a particular query on Google. If you study the exact match "search queries" and related search archives "content" you can uncover a much more interesting "big picture" than what your local news media is delivering.

Conclusion? Bitcoin is slowly growing - quite literally - around the world.

That being said, I believe we are in the 1st inning of the baseball game. If you were thinking the volumes should be higher just keep in mind this is only data from Google, excluding Yahoo, Bing, Baidu, Yandex, etc., and, they were flat-line 0-0-0 across the board just weeks ago...

In plain english, the higher the search volume the higher the overall popularity and interest. The higher the PPC (bid price) for the search query, the more competition, regardless of volume data. As more innovation occurs, investment and news will follow. Search Engine archives will thicken as will the monthly search volumes and bid pricing. I would anticipate companies like BitPay, CoinBase, BlockChain, Circle, MtGox, Btc-E, and a few others to initiate some paid geo-targeted marketing campaigns in q1 of 2014 considering the potential. Right now we've noticed CoinBase advertising for "Bitcoin Wallet" in recent weeks so the pieces are coming together.

On another note, a prime factor in the value and correlation of geo-search queries and geo-domain assets is the representation of popularity and "brand value" of the root itself. Example: GermanyBitcoin.com is a premium domain that has a "cash value" because it is the most generic and most credible form of a digital brand for that particular vertical. It acts as an authoritative destination and makes the development an instant player given the competitive advantage, exactly why we frequently see long-tail geo-domains sell for $x,xxx - $xxx,xxx each. It boils down to opportunity cost and the potential ROI for a local wallet or exchange. More on this later in a new post.

Date: 12/28/2013 @ 11:11pm EST

Geographic - Search Query = Average Monthly Searches > Suggested Bid (PPC)


--------------------- >>>

China Bitcoin = 720 > $2.09
Canada Bitcoin = 390 > $0.44
Zimbabwe Bitcoin = 320 > nda
Germany Bitcoin = 260 >nda
Thailand Bitcoin = 170 > $0.10
Argentina Bitcoin = 140 > $0.35
India Bitcoin = 90 > $0.96
Iran Bitcoin = 90 > $3.25
Australia Bitcoin = 70 > $3.47
France Bitcoin = 50 > $1.45
Japan Bitcoin = 40 > $1.75
Kenya Bitcoin = 40 > nda
Iceland Bitcoin = 30 > $1.55
Finland Bitcoin = 30 > nda
New Zealand Bitcoin = 30 > $1.42
South Africa Bitcoin = 20 > nda
Mexico Bitcoin = 20 > $0.15
Sweden Bitcoin = 10 > $0.46
Belgium Bitcoin = 10 > $1.39
Russia Bitcoin = 10 > $1.82
Philippines Bitcoin = 10 > $0.93
Turkey Bitcoin = 10 > nda
Slovenia Bitcoin = 10 > nda
Brazil Bitcoin = 10 > nda
Chile Bitcoin = 10 > $0.56
USA Bitcoin = 10 > $1.42

If you have any questions, would like to share relevant information, or would like to hire me, just shoot me a message.

If that figure of $50k is in fact accurate, this would be a CLASSIC case of an inexperienced domain owner who left BOAT LOADS of cash on the table by simply playing a game he/she wasn't equipped to play. 

Hi Charlie, I haven't seen you post in a while! I thought you were too good for us peons now.   When you say "the owner" are you talking about Jered? I thought Jered owned it.
[/quote]

Hey

I've been working to relaunch BitInstant, and as soon as we do I'll post alot more.

Jered is not the owner, he had mutual business dealings with the owner which allowed him to use the site as a landing page.

I'm kind of pissed because the owner is just 'holding' until it has more value, where using the actual domain will give Bitcoin more exposure and increase the value.

This kind of rational I dont understand.
[/quote]

--------------------- >>>

Charlie,

With nearly a decade of premium domain asset and intellectual property experience, perhaps I can shed some light on the situation. I have worked with millions of dollars of domains with startups, private investors, newspapers and tv-stations, publishing groups, professional athletes, and a few household names.

Although I (honestly) do not know who the actual owner is, I do know that every single negotiation and acquisition is complex, and very unique. It would be a mistake to place a "mold" or blanket statement on the owner. For example, although unlikely, this could be the only domain this individual owns. He or she wants to make sure they "time the sale" appropriately. I have heard a million times the song of "seller remorse" when upon transfer the seller says, "I left money on the table" considering the potential that unique asset has and value it will bring to the new company and their bottom line. On the other hand, the individual may be extremely experienced and wealthy through the billion dollar domain industry. There are only a few thousand people on the planet that can lend professional advice or negotiation based on a six or seven figure domain asset.

That being said, in many cases, the domain name owner simply "doesn't need the money" and is content simply gambling on the value increasing in the future. To that particular point, with Bitcoin, he/she is probably correct that the value will go up - but - that does not necessarily translate in to a higher offer from you. So, the risk to reward equation is tricky. Ultimately, in my opinion, it's always a bit more difficult to buy when the seller knows who you are and the potential ROI. It's really about opportunity cost, and the tricky equation of finding their sell-now-threshold and hot button. You also have to keep in mind taxes. While for you, you secure a tax-deductible investment, (and appreciating asset), the seller of the domain asset will have his/her profit taxed. If the money they are earning from the affiliate link and / or licensing agreement is a consistent and healthy amount, they may not see the immediate need or value proposition to "lose" the asset forever.

In some interesting cases, domain "lease agreements" have been structured for 99 years. Others have an annual decline lump-sum with a set term and first right of refusal built in. Ultimately though, it's always best to own the asset. But, unfortunately, it sounds like the owner is fat and happy and knows there are multiple interested parties.

If you're interested in discussing further, let me know. There is a chance I could be of assistance no doubt.

There is no question all four domains listed above are six or seven figure domain assets.

Google Adwords Data: Average Monthly Searches

---------------------------------------------------------

Search Query / Monthly Average / October-to-November SPIKE:

Bitcoin = 1,220,000 >>> 1,500,000 to 5,000,000 !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
"Bitcoin" suggested bid = $1.06

Bitcoins = 201,000 >>> 246,000 to 673,000
"Bitcoins" suggested bid = $1.22

Bitcoin Exchange = 60,500 >>> 40,500 to 135,000
"Bitcoin Exchange" suggested bid = $1.72

Bitcoin Wallet = 33,100 >>> 33,100 to 110,000
"Bitcoin Wallet" suggested bid = $1.60

Hello.

Just sharing my independent research for those interested. I am here in good spirits, no need for any negativity.

Bitcoin.com

Original Registrant:  Hurricane Communication AB - Gothenburg, Sweden
Original Date:  September 19, 2000

On January 4, 2008 the Registrant record changed from Verisign to Godaddy.

New Registrant:  Jesse Heitler - Denver, Colorado
  
On August 26, 2010 the Registrant record changed from above name to Privacy Protection.

Today, "Bitcoin.com" is used as an affiliate landing page to promote CoinBase.com but that does not mean CoinBase is the owner. In fact, they could be involved with a term licensing agreement to control the domain asset. Or, the domain owner could simply be redirecting users to CoinBase for an affiliate commission via the blue graphic. I personally have no clue which is the reality. However, I have been informed by anonymous sources the conversations are well in to the six and seven figures.

Bitcoins.com

Original Registrant:  Rodolfo Andragnes - Victoria Bahia, Argentina
Original Date:  March 30, 2000

On August 17, 2011 the Registrant record changed from above name to Tibanne Co. LTD - Mr. Mark Karpeles (founder of MtGox).

Today, "Bitcoins.com" is a really cool website and is positioned as a complete guide to the world of Bitcoin. With information and links to the major resources and great details and graphics, it's a must read. However, the site boasts an interactive timeline hasn't been updated since April 2013. Also, note Mr. Karpeles also owns "BitcoinExchange.com" which 301-redirects to his company; MtGox.com. Great investment(s), really savvy move!

BitcoinWallet.com

Original Registrant:  Privacy Protection
Original Date:  July 13, 2010

On December 23, 2013 the Registrant record changed from above name to CurrencyEvolution.com - a Bitcoin marketing platform (startup company) that seems to be seeking funding. "Bitcoin Wallet" - as a search query (Google) spiked from a ten month average volume of 30,000 monthly searches to 110,000 in November 2013 representing an unbelievable spike in global interest. Seems like an incredible amount of potential exposure and revenue CoinBase.com and BlockChain.info are missing out on. I think it's safe to say the bigger Bitcoin becomes the more of a need for a Bitcoin Wallet.

Enjoy!

Such an incredible domain asset, very interesting.

Well, I suppose that leaves the door wide open for new opportunities for startups like "BitcoinWallet.com" and "CurrencyEvolution.com".

----------- >

They don't link anywhere, but what do you mean by "valid"...? They are all owned by the company according to the whois.

Who knows?! They do have an incredible domain portfolio though. I hope it all works out, could be huge for Bitcoin! I found this on one of the pages:

"We are fully committed to building the world's largest Bitcoin network to serve as a global information and marketing platform which simultaneously boasts an eighty-seven country portal for Bitcoin commerce and exchange. By leveraging our premium intellectual property and marketing experience, we aim to be the leader in Bitcoin from the gate. We are interested in feedback, as well as dialogue regarding strategic partnership and investment opportunities."

- currencyevolution℠

I'm pretty sure http://www.CurrencyEvolution.com is launching after the holidays, at least that's what I read on another forum post. Someone said they were in the process of getting Venture Capital? And...another random comment said the Winklevoss Twins were acquiring the startup before it launches?! Either way it should be interesting to watch!

Hello.

Just passing along some information I stumbled upon...

Check it out:

http://www.currencyevolution.com

Thank you. Research is oftentimes very tedious, and lacks any type of instant reward, but the education received upon analyzing trends is invaluable.

I definitely am not interested in begging for donations but I thought it would be neat if someone sent me one bitcoin, or even a small percentage of one to learn more about the incoming transactions. In any event, I'm still glad I decided to share my research.

Enjoy.

Ps: More information coming soon.

@Gusti:

I apologize that you feel like my research is obnoxious.

Let me explain. The information I provided was simply for fun rather than some wild attempt to locate the founder. Honestly, I could not care less who he or she or they are, but would like to publicly congratulate them nonetheless on an absolutely magnificent piece of work that has a chance to change the world.

As mentioned, for a living I work in the media consulting industry so I felt that my rare data should be shared within the Bitcoin community to stimulate the forum by providing evidence of the trends and ownership records of domain assets, no harm intended.

Take care.

Thanks for your reply!

Well, it's a bit tricky.

You see, the date shown in the WHOIS database is a record of "registration" but does not necessarily mean it was the "date of origin" for a particular domain name. If a domain ever expires and then later is registered by another individual, the WHOIS will show the "new registration date" verses the original.

And, more importantly, regardless of the official birth of the address (or date post-drop), the "name" of the registrant can be edited at any time.

So for example, "BiggestBitcoinFanInTheWorld.com" could have a WHOIS date of 2/13/2012 but it could've been registered originally on 10/12/2002 and so you can not necessarily rely on standard WHOIS checkers for original creation dates. DomainTools is available for the most accurate data. And to be quite honest, there isn't necessarily any WHOIS police, so a registrant could edit or falsely the contact details to his/her liking. Or, obviously, just place the domain on private protection as many of my examples have opted for.

And for the final example regarding the name record. Regardless of the date, an individual could have his/her name listed on a ten year old domain but just acquired it last week from the previous owner. So as I mentioned, it's tricky.

Hope that makes sense.

Thanks again for reading.