Tucows Acquiring Expiring Domains That Don't Make It To Auction

[Seraphim]

Tucows seems to be acquiring a growing number of expiring domains that somehow march towards a drop auction, yet skip the auction at the last minute and end up in their possession [all of which are not registered with Tucows in the first place].

Lately Tucows has been eating up 100% of the expiring domains in my small market niche, and my question is, does anyone know if they sell domains?

 

[TheLegendaryJP]

Never seen them sale. They buy and have a nice portfolio going.

 

[petrosc]

they did sell a portfolio of 2,500 names for $3MM 2-3 months ago - dont remember who the buyer was

also a quote from wikpedia:

Tucows also announced that they had entered into partnership with Domain Distribution Network and NameMedia to offer to over 600,000 premium domains for sale. Tucows' wholesale network supports near-instant transfers of premium names.[6]

 

[Seraphim]

Never seen them sale.

That's what I thought. I sent off a couple of emails anyway, but I obviously don't expect a reply.

If I'm understanding the situation correctly, Tucows is buying expiring domains direct from at least a few dozens registrars? If that's the case, I can't imagine they would be paying more than a wholesale rate. I'm positive I could have outbid Tucows for several of the domains pertaining to my small market niche, as I would have developed them [the domains wouldn't sell for reg fee here].

Has anyone here ever attempted to purchase an expiring domain direct from a registrar before it drops? I would be curious to know how other domainers feel about this practice. Do you think it's unethical, or due rewards when you have the capital to negotiate a backdoor deal?