The top-level domain (TLD) “.bbva” is basically a brand TLD, a type of domain name that is distinct to a particular corporation or organization. The term “BBVA” is commonly recognized as the acronym for Banco Bilbao Vizcaya Argentaria, a large multinational banking group based in Spain.
This domain name “.bbva” is a branded TLD, or gTLD (generic Top-Level Domain), and this sort of domain name category became possible thanks to a program by ICANN (The Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers) that was launched in 2011, called the New gTLD Program. According to the ICANN website itself, the program was initiated to increase competition, innovation, and choice in the domain name space. This is why corporations, like the Banco Bilbao Vizcaya Argentaria, can apply for and use branded TLDs like “.bbva”.
BBVA made use of the “.bbva” TLD to help with branding and security. It forms a part of their digital strategy to create a consistent and secure online presence. For example, BBVA might use the “.bbva” name for their different national branches, creating URLs like “www.spain.bbva” or “www.usa.bbva”. This creates a more direct and memorable online identity, while also enhancing cybersecurity. Given that it is much harder for malicious actors to mimic or spoof a branded TLD, this move can also help with preventing phishing and other cyber attacks.
However, branded TLDs like “.bbva” also have their drawbacks. One key downside is that they are often not recognized as legitimate by the general public, who are more familiar with traditional TLDs like “.com”. Furthermore, there are costs and resources involved in applying for, securing and maintaining a branded TLD, which could be a barrier for some companies.
The list of branded and generic TLDs is managed by ICANN. The specific name “.bbva” as such, according to the ZookNIC Internet Intelligence website, is currently managed by BBVA itself.
In conclusion, the “.bbva” TLD is an online representation of the BBVA brand itself, offering improved brand consistency and enhanced cybersecurity. This sort of domain name became possible due to a program by ICANN and can be both an asset and a challenge for corporations depending on how well they are utilized.
Sources:
1. ICANN (https://www.icann.org/resources/pages/about-2012-02-25-en)
2. ZookNIC Internet Intelligence (http://stats.research.icann.org/dns/tld\_report/)
3. New gTLD Breakdown (https://ntldstats.com/tld)
4. BBVA Newsroom (https://www.bbva.com/en/newsroom/)
