Current negotiations and delays could result in unfavorable terms for  domain name investors.

      A lot of domain name investors are against the wholesale introduction of new top level domain names, or at least some of the provisions attached to them. They worry that new intellectual property guidelines, a lack of pricing controls, etc. will be extended to existing top level domain names such as .com. They also worry that ICANN will crumble under the weight of legal action, throwing the entire naming system into disarray.

      These are valid worries. But at this point in the game, I think any further delays and negotiation on new top level domain names will only hurt domainers.

      When ICANN meets with the Governmental Advisory Committee in February, intellectual property rights will very much be on the table. I worry about last minute concessions that could jeopardize legitimate domain name owners by giving too much power to IP interests.

      I should reiterate that I’m a fan of legitimate protections for trademark owners. But we often see trademark owners overstep their rights.

      Frankly, domainers needn’t worry too much about IP protections built into the existing applicant guidebook. But further delays and negotiation could result in something getting slipped in at the last moment, not giving domainers a chance to respond.