Introduction
ENS (Ethereum Name Service) domains have evolved into the business cards of Web3, serving as digital identities for individuals, corporations, and even nations. With Web3 adoption accelerating, ENS domains are becoming a must-have for traditional enterprises and crypto-native projects alike.
But for latecomers, is there still room to profit from ENS domains? Let’s explore the opportunities.
Why ENS Domains Matter
1. Web3 Identity Layer
ENS transforms complex Ethereum addresses into human-readable names (e.g., vitalik.eth), functioning like a decentralized username system across wallets, dApps, and social platforms.
2. Corporate Adoption Surge
Brands like Gucci, Tiffany, and Budweiser have acquired ENS domains (e.g., gucci.eth, tiffany.eth) to cement their Web3 presence.
👉 Explore how top brands use ENS
3. Integration Ecosystem
Over 505 apps support ENS, including MetaMask, OpenSea, and Uniswap. Users can link crypto addresses, social profiles, and even NFT avatars to their ENS domain.
4. Subdomain Potential
Upcoming ENS upgrades (like NameWrapper) will enable subdomains as NFTs, allowing companies/DAOs to distribute them at scale (e.g., user.project.eth).
Key Metrics (2022–2023)
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Total ENS registrations | >1.86 million |
| Unique holders | >500,000 addresses |
| Monthly registrations (peak) | 370,000 (July 2022) |
| Primary domain setups | 360,000+ |
| Annual revenue | ~$54 million |
Data sources: Dune Analytics
Most Valuable ENS Domains
🏆 Top Categories
- Brand/Project Names (e.g.,
paradigm.eth,nike.eth) - Numeric Domains (e.g.,
000.ethsold for 300 ETH) - First/Last Names (e.g.,
john.eth,smith.eth) - Industry Terms (e.g.,
wallet.eth,games.eth) - Emoji Domains (e.g.,
❤️.eth)
💡 Pro Tip:
Scarcity drives value—3–4 character domains cost more ($160–$640/year).
Opportunities for Latecomers
1. Expiring Domains
Monitor ENS Vision for soon-to-expire domains entering auctions.
2. Bargain Offers
Place lowball bids on NFT marketplaces like OpenSea.
3. Emerging Trends
Track new industries (AI, VR) and tech products for untapped domain ideas.
👉 Find undervalued ENS domains
4. Creative Combinations
Mix numbers, letters, and symbols (e.g., web3CEO.eth, alpha_2025.eth).
FAQ
Q: Are ENS domains a good investment?
A: High-risk, high-reward. Focus on brandable or utility-driven names.
Q: How do subdomains work?
A: They let primary holders (e.g., company.eth) issue child domains (e.g., hr.company.eth).
Q: Can I build a website on ENS?
A: Yes! Host on IPFS and link to your ENS domain for a decentralized site.
Final Thoughts
While early adopters grabbed premium domains, niche strategies (expiring auctions, subdomains) still offer chances to profit. Stay ahead by tracking Web3 trends and acting fast.
Next up: [Part 2] Essential ENS Tools for Domain Hunters.
Disclaimer: Not financial advice. DYOR before investing.
### SEO Notes:
- **Target Keywords**: ENS domains, Web3 identity, NFT domains, Ethereum naming