Crypto.com Co-Founder Buys $70 Million ai.com Domain for Consumer AI Venture

Kris Marszalek, co-founder and CEO of Crypto.com, has purchased the ai.com domain for $70 million, setting a record for the largest publicly disclosed domain sale. The transaction, fully paid in cryptocurrency, was confirmed by broker Larry Fischer. Marszalek plans to debut the new AI platform during a Super Bowl commercial this weekend.

The ai.com domain will serve as the base for a consumer-facing AI agent that performs tasks like message management, app usage, and stock trading. According to reports, the service emphasizes ease of use for non-technical users. Marszalek described it as a long-term investment in a major technological shift over the next 10–20 years.

Marszalek has already received significant offers to sell the domain but plans to keep it to build a business and brand. The platform aims to differentiate itself by simplifying AI agent setup.

Why Did This Happen?

Marszalek, who also leads Crypto.com, sees the domain as a strategic move in a crowded market. He argues that owning a prominent domain helps avoid commoditization and builds brand equity. The acquisition aligns with a broader branding strategy.

Marszalek previously built Crypto.com into a $1.5 billion revenue business through high-profile marketing deals. The new AI venture follows a similar vision of mainstream adoption.

What Are Analysts Watching Next?

Marszalek claims to have received what he called "an absolutely insane amount of money" in offers for the domain. This suggests strong market interest in the AI sector. Analysts are monitoring whether the new platform can sustain user engagement and avoid competition from established AI firms.

The AI market is projected to reach $376 billion in 2026. However, crypto-based AI initiatives face liquidity and regulatory challenges. Marszalek's venture could provide a hybrid model.

The Super Bowl debut of ai.com is a high-stakes marketing move. The success of the platform will depend on user adoption and technical execution. Analysts are tracking initial user feedback and product performance.

What Are the Broader Implications?

Crypto.com has a history of innovation, including spinning out a standalone prediction markets platform. The ai.com venture reflects a continued push into emerging technologies.

The broader crypto market has shown mixed performance in 2026. Marszalek's move into AI could signal a shift away from traditional crypto products.

Investors are also watching how the new AI platform integrates with financial services and whether it attracts institutional interest. The platform's expansion into agent marketplaces and social features could broaden its appeal.