TLD launch phases
When a new TLD opens, registrations follow staged phases: Sunrise (TMCH-registered marks), Landrush (early access at premium prices), General Availability (open to all).
Why staged
Protects trademark holders from squatters, lets the registry capture premium revenue from early demand, and validates the technical platform before mass volume.
Premium tiers persist
Even after general availability, registries reserve short + dictionary-word names at premium tiers — pricing them in the thousands or holding for auction.