Mixed results for domain name stocks in 2009.
The U.S. stock markets returned about 35% in 2009. Domain name stocks were a mixed bag, however. Here’s how six publicly traded companies fared last year, based on the closing price December 31 of 2008 versus 2009.
Tucows (AMEX: TCX) – Up 106% – Tucows aggressively bought back shares in 2009, reducing its shares outstanding and thus increasing their price. But the buybacks only tell part of the story; the company did a good job weathering the financial storm.
Dark Blue Sea (ASX:DBS) – Up 100% – Thanks to a buyout from Photon Group, Dark Blue Sea investors who got in late were able to make a bit of a return.
VeriSign (NASDAQ: VRSN) – Up 27% – Investors shoved aside their worry of a lawsuit that might force VeriSign to lower .com prices.
AdLINK (DUS: LKI) – Down 1% – Sedo parent AdLINK held steady through its transition and sale of the display ad business, closing the year on the DUS at 3.14 EUR.
Marchex (MCHX) – Down 13% – Loss of Yahoo Site Inclusion as a product could weigh on stock going forward. Can Marchex shine as the king of local?
Live Current Media (OTCbb: LIVC) – Down 21% – Sold cricket business, sold big value domain names such as Call.com and Brazil.com. What’s left? An online perfume business and a partnership for Karate.com.