Malaysian sells AI.com domain for record RM276 million

Malaysia’s technology ecosystem has reached a milestone with the reported sale of AI.com for US$70 million, or about RM276 million, widely regarded as the most expensive publicly disclosed domain name transaction to date. The deal underscores the surging value of premium digital assets as artificial intelligence reshapes global innovation, investment and geopolitics.

Unlike conventional digital properties, ultra-short and highly recognisable domain names are strategic assets. AI.com, a two-letter domain synonymous with artificial intelligence, sits at the intersection of branding, technology and future-facing narratives. Its valuation reflects both scarcity and the power of owning a digital identity aligned with one of the world’s most influential technological shifts.

Malaysia’s growing tech profile

The domain was previously owned by Malaysian technology entrepreneur Arsyan Ismail, who has drawn attention in the past for his interest in high-end technology. He first gained national recognition after becoming the first Malaysian to purchase the Acer Predator 21X gaming laptop, priced close to RM40,000.

While that purchase highlighted personal enthusiasm for cutting-edge gadgets, the sale of AI.com places Arsyan in a far more consequential arena: the global digital asset market. The transaction reflects a broader trend of Malaysian entrepreneurs participating in high-value technology investments, signalling a shift from consumption to ownership of strategic digital assets.

Crypto.com’s strategic bet on AI branding

AI.com was acquired by Kris Marszalek, chief executive officer of Crypto.com, who is also set to lead AI.com as a new venture. Under its new ownership, the domain is expected to anchor services focused on branded artificial intelligence offerings, positioning the platform at the convergence of fintech, blockchain and AI.

The acquisition has been described by the company as the largest single domain purchase ever disclosed. Beyond the record-setting price, the AI.com deal illustrates how domain names have evolved from simple web addresses into assets comparable to prime digital real estate. For Malaysia, the sale represents more than a headline figure, reinforcing the country’s growing relevance in global technology narratives and the commercial value of long-term digital foresight.