VeriSign Management
Management criteria checks 4/4
VeriSign's CEO is Jim Bidzos, appointed in Jan 1995, has a tenure of 31.42 years. total yearly compensation is $15.54M, comprised of 6.1% salary and 93.9% bonuses, including company stock and options. directly owns 0.42% of the company’s shares, worth $104.26M. The average tenure of the management team and the board of directors is 8.2 years and 6.9 years respectively.
Key information
Jim Bidzos
Chief executive officer
US$15.5m
Total compensation
| CEO salary percentage | 6.11% |
| CEO tenure | 31.4yrs |
| CEO ownership | 0.4% |
| Management average tenure | 8.2yrs |
| Board average tenure | 6.9yrs |
Recent management updates
Recent updates
Narrative Update • Jun 03
VRSN: Pricing And Renewal Moat Will Support Future Upside Potential
Analysts have raised their fair value estimate for VeriSign from $305.00 to $355.00, citing recent price target increases from several firms and updated assumptions around discount rates, revenue growth, profit margins, and future P/E levels. Analyst Commentary Recent Street research has tilted constructive on VeriSign, with several bullish analysts adjusting their price targets higher alongside refreshed assumptions for discount rates, revenue growth, margins, and future P/E levels.
Narrative Update • May 13
VRSN: 2026 Earnings Guidance Will Test Elevated Market Expectations
The analyst fair value estimate for VeriSign has shifted from $250 to $265. This change is broadly aligned with recent price target increases from several firms as analysts factor in updated views on revenue growth, margins, discount rates, and future P/E assumptions.Seeking Alpha • May 07
VeriSign Stock Now Appears Fairly Priced
Summary VeriSign trades at reasonably high-20s earnings multiples, supported by strong margins and return on invested capital. VRSN's investment case hinges on whether generative AI is a threat or tailwind, with valuation sensitivity to AI-driven market perceptions. Growth from .com and .net is mature; future upside depends on AI-driven infrastructure demand and successful expansion into new domains. Near-term stock performance will be driven more by the AI narrative than by VRSN's earnings, presenting both opportunity and significant risk. Read the full article on Seeking AlphaNarrative Update • Apr 22
VRSN: Refined Discount Rate Assumptions Will Support Future Upside Potential
Analysts have adjusted their VeriSign price target by $15, citing refined assumptions around discount rates, revenue growth, profit margins and future P/E expectations. Analyst Commentary Recent Street research on VeriSign reflects a mix of caution and renewed optimism, with the most recent US$15 upward adjustment in the price target framed around updated views on discount rates, revenue assumptions, profit margins and future P/E expectations.
Narrative Update • Apr 08
VRSN: Steady Dot Com Base And Capital Returns Will Shape Future Confidence
Analysts have raised their fair value estimate for VeriSign to $280.75 from $276.50, reflecting updated assumptions on revenue growth, discount rate, profit margin, and future P/E. Analyst Commentary Recent Street research on VeriSign shows both supportive and cautious views around the stock's valuation and execution, reflected in price target revisions in different directions over time.Narrative Update • Mar 25
VRSN: Steady Domain Base And Capital Returns Will Support Future Upside
Analysts have modestly reduced their average price target for VeriSign, with Citi cutting its target by $57 while others made small upward adjustments as they factor in a 3% year over year increase in the. com domain base, yet they still view the shares as fairly valued overall.Narrative Update • Mar 11
VRSN: Steady .Com Base And Buybacks Will Support Future Cash Returns
Analysts have trimmed their average price target on VeriSign by $57, citing updated models that reflect a slightly higher discount rate and P/E assumption, even as they acknowledge steady. com domain trends and fairly valued shares.
Narrative Update • Feb 25
VeriSign's Future Still Hinges on Single-Service Dependency
A new series of interviews with current and former employees, conducted in January and February 2026, confirm our risk analysis. Management practices continue to be not in line with best-in-class approaches.Narrative Update • Feb 24
VRSN: Stronger Dot Com Base And Capital Returns Will Support Future Confidence
Analysts have trimmed their average price target on VeriSign to $276.50 from $290.75, citing updated assumptions for discount rates, revenue growth, profit margins and future P/E. They also referenced mixed recent Street research in which one firm lowered its target, while others pointed to steady.Narrative Update • Feb 10
VRSN: Steady Domain Base Will Support Stronger Future Cash Returns
Narrative Update Analysts have trimmed their fair value estimate for VeriSign to about $305 from roughly $340, citing updated assumptions for revenue growth, profit margins and future P/E multiples, alongside mixed recent research that includes both a reduced target from Citi and a small increase from JPMorgan, with the shares still generally viewed as fairly valued. Analyst Commentary Recent Street research on VeriSign has been mixed, but you can still see a clear thread in how analysts are thinking about execution and valuation.Narrative Update • Jan 27
VRSN: Stronger Dot Com Base And Steady Margins Will Support Future Confidence
Analysts trimmed their fair value estimate for VeriSign slightly to $290.75 from $295.75, citing relatively steady assumptions around revenue growth, profit margins and future P/E. They also acknowledged recent Street research that views the.New Narrative • Jan 27
Bad management practices jeopardize long-term future of VRSN
Risk Analysis VRSN Q1/2026 Executive Summary: There are credible, systematic indicators of serious management and cultural deficiencies at VeriSign (Nasdaq: VRSN), which materially elevate the company’s legal, reputational, and regulatory risk profile. These concerns, if substantiated through litigation or public disclosure, could significantly undermine stakeholder confidence, attract legal challenges, and jeopardize VeriSign’s ability to sustain its privileged position as the registry operator for the.Narrative Update • Jan 13
VRSN: Stronger Dot Com Trends And Share Repurchases Will Support Future Confidence
Analysts have raised their fair value estimate for VeriSign slightly, from US$295.50 to US$295.75. This adjustment reflects slightly stronger.Narrative Update • Dec 21
VRSN: Strong Q3 Execution Will Support Confidence Amid Parked Domain Advertising Headwinds
Analysts have modestly reduced their price target on VeriSign, trimming expectations by about $15 to reflect updated modeling around AdSense exposure. They continue to view recent Q3 results and management commentary as supportive of a constructive long term outlook.Narrative Update • Dec 06
VRSN: Strong Q3 Execution Will Drive Confidence Despite Parked Domain Risks
Analysts have modestly trimmed their price target on VeriSign to $325 from $340, reflecting slightly higher discount rate assumptions. They also highlight resilient fundamentals, clearer visibility into AdSense exposure, and Q3 results that counter recent bearish narratives and support the shares as an attractive entry point.Narrative Update • Nov 22
VRSN: Strong Execution And Domain Guidance Will Drive Renewed Bullish Sentiment
Analysts have modestly lowered their price target for VeriSign to $325 from $340, citing updated models after Q3 results and a better understanding of the company's exposure to advertising changes. Analyst Commentary Analysts have offered a mix of optimistic and cautious perspectives on VeriSign following its latest quarterly results and updated guidance.Narrative Update • Nov 08
VRSN: Strong Quarterly Results Will Drive Renewed Optimism Despite Bearish Sentiment
Analysts have lowered their fair value estimate for VeriSign from $304 to $295.50 per share. They cite updated forecasts and a refined assessment of domain-related revenue drivers following the company’s recent quarterly performance and related market commentary.Narrative Update • Oct 24
Cautious Outlook Will Shape Domain Momentum And Share Buybacks Ahead
Analysts have lowered their price target for VeriSign by $5, now citing a revised fair value of $304. The adjustment reflects more cautious revenue growth projections and updated views on domain-related advertising trends observed after the company’s latest results.Analysis Article • Sep 25
VeriSign, Inc.'s (NASDAQ:VRSN) Share Price Matching Investor Opinion
With a price-to-earnings (or "P/E") ratio of 33.3x VeriSign, Inc. ( NASDAQ:VRSN ) may be sending very bearish signals...Narrative Update • Sep 04
New Domain Initiatives And Dividends Will Face Web Hurdles
With no material changes in revenue growth forecasts or discount rates, analyst valuation for VeriSign remains steady, reflected in an unchanged consensus price target of $309. What's in the News VeriSign completed a $1.2255 billion follow-on equity offering for 4.3 million shares at $285 per share with a $2.85 discount.Analysis Article • Jul 27
VeriSign, Inc. (NASDAQ:VRSN) Just Reported And Analysts Have Been Lifting Their Price Targets
It's been a good week for VeriSign, Inc. ( NASDAQ:VRSN ) shareholders, because the company has just released its latest...Analysis Article • Jun 21
Getting In Cheap On VeriSign, Inc. (NASDAQ:VRSN) Is Unlikely
When close to half the companies in the United States have price-to-earnings ratios (or "P/E's") below 17x, you may...Seeking Alpha • Jan 29
VeriSign: Time To Change Directions, But Buffett Increases Holding
Summary It's time for VeriSign to consider different options for its capital returns to investors. Share buybacks are great, just not at high valuations. VeriSign had a big win getting its contract renewed with ICANN. Valuation still looks stretched with little growth options making it a hold. Read the full article on Seeking AlphaSeeking Alpha • Dec 30
VeriSign: Cautiously Bullish On This Stock
Summary VeriSign's strong market position, high margins, and pricing power justify a slight premium valuation, expected to stabilize at around 22x P/E ratio. The company dominates the domain name industry, managing key domains like .com and .net, and benefits from regulatory agreements allowing price increases. VeriSign's financials are solid, with high operating margins, strong cash flow, and disciplined cost control, supporting capital returns and reinvestment. Despite reliance on domain registrations and potential regulatory scrutiny, long-term trends like e-commerce growth and internet penetration bolster a cautiously bullish buy recommendation. Read the full article on Seeking AlphaSeeking Alpha • Oct 31
VeriSign: Q3 Doesn't Make It The Right Time To Buy
Summary The Q3 report shows revenue up, high margins, EPS $2.07, but a decrease in the number of domain name registrations which makes the picture mixed. Despite a declining DNB, it still holds roughly 47% of the market in a very stable market position. Share buybacks continue to be a given, with management increasing shareholder benefits. I wouldn't buy at this level, my buy level is lower than $178. Read the full article on Seeking AlphaSeeking Alpha • Sep 24
VeriSign: Major Execution Risks Ahead With Limited Resolve
Summary VeriSign, Inc.'s repeatedly downward adjusted guidance due to protracted industry and macroeconomic headwinds has cost the stock a major step-down this year. The latest full year 2024 revenue guidance implies further deterioration in VeriSign's .com domain name base, which remains underappreciated at the stock's current values. The upcoming renewal of VeriSign's contracts with ICANN and the U.S. Department of Commerce also poses additional pricing limitations, exacerbating current challenges to its topline. Despite strong margins, VeriSign's limited growth drivers and exposure to unfavorable industry dynamics harbingers further multiple compression risks ahead. Read the full article on Seeking AlphaSeeking Alpha • Jul 13
VeriSign: Underfollowed Value Opportunity Yielding A 9.8% Return
Summary VeriSign stocks are undervalued by 20.1% and underfollowed by Wall Street analysts, indicating a potential mispricing. VeriSign boosts a monopolistic mature business model, with high operating margins and high free cash flow generation, compensating for modest growth. Despite recent stock price decline, VeriSign's risk-reward profile suggests a positive excess return of around 9.8%, with a catalyst expected after Q3 earnings report. Read the full article on Seeking AlphaSeeking Alpha • May 22
VeriSign: Hasn't Been This Cheap Since 2018
Summary VeriSign, a domain name registry services provider, has consistently high free cash flow margins and growing revenues for 16 years. Investor interest in VeriSign is low due to the focus on tech companies investing in AI and the perception of VeriSign's steady but not exciting revenue growth. VeriSign's competitive advantage lies in its management of globally recognized domains like .com, which grants trust and allows companies to operate in multiple markets. Read the full article on Seeking AlphaCEO Compensation Analysis
| Date | Total Compensation | Salary | Company Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mar 31 2026 | n/a | n/a | US$841m |
| Dec 31 2025 | US$16m | US$950k | US$826m |
| Sep 30 2025 | n/a | n/a | US$811m |
| Jun 30 2025 | n/a | n/a | US$800m |
| Mar 31 2025 | n/a | n/a | US$791m |
| Dec 31 2024 | US$14m | US$950k | US$786m |
| Sep 30 2024 | n/a | n/a | US$859m |
| Jun 30 2024 | n/a | n/a | US$846m |
| Mar 31 2024 | n/a | n/a | US$833m |
| Dec 31 2023 | US$12m | US$950k | US$818m |
| Sep 30 2023 | n/a | n/a | US$732m |
| Jun 30 2023 | n/a | n/a | US$713m |
| Mar 31 2023 | n/a | n/a | US$695m |
| Dec 31 2022 | US$11m | US$946k | US$674m |
| Sep 30 2022 | n/a | n/a | US$824m |
| Jun 30 2022 | n/a | n/a | US$812m |
| Mar 31 2022 | n/a | n/a | US$792m |
| Dec 31 2021 | US$10m | US$925k | US$785m |
| Sep 30 2021 | n/a | n/a | US$612m |
| Jun 30 2021 | n/a | n/a | US$626m |
| Mar 31 2021 | n/a | n/a | US$631m |
| Dec 31 2020 | US$10m | US$961k | US$815m |
| Sep 30 2020 | n/a | n/a | US$806m |
| Jun 30 2020 | n/a | n/a | US$789m |
| Mar 31 2020 | n/a | n/a | US$784m |
| Dec 31 2019 | US$9m | US$925k | US$612m |
Compensation vs Market: Jim's total compensation ($USD15.54M) is about average for companies of similar size in the US market ($USD14.65M).
Compensation vs Earnings: Jim's compensation has been consistent with company performance over the past year.
CEO
Jim Bidzos (71 yo)
31.4yrs
Tenure
US$15,536,674
Compensation
Mr. D. James Bidzos, also known as Jim, is the Founder of VeriSign, Inc. and has been its Executive Chairman since August 17, 2009 and has been its Chief Executive Officer since August 1, 2011 and served a...
Leadership Team
| Name | Position | Tenure | Compensation | Ownership |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Executive Chairman | 31.4yrs | US$15.54m | 0.42% $ 104.3m | |
| Executive VP & CFO | 15.5yrs | US$3.72m | 0.035% $ 8.7m | |
| Executive VP | 11.6yrs | US$4.91m | 0.018% $ 4.6m | |
| Executive VP of Technology & Chief Security Officer | no data | US$5.62m | 0.013% $ 3.2m | |
| Senior VP & CTO | no data | no data | no data | |
| VP, Treasury & Investor Relations | no data | no data | no data | |
| Senior Vice President of Marketing | 4.8yrs | no data | no data | |
| Senior VP of Human Resources & Chief Human Resources Officer | no data | no data | no data | |
| Senior Vice President of Naming & Registry Services | no data | US$1.57m | no data | |
| Senior VP & Executive Strategic Advisor | 4.8yrs | no data | no data | |
| Senior VP & Deputy General Counsel | no data | no data | no data | |
| Senior Vice President of Architecture & Engineering | 3.5yrs | no data | no data |
8.2yrs
Average Tenure
65.5yo
Average Age
Experienced Management: VRSN's management team is seasoned and experienced (8.2 years average tenure).
Board Members
| Name | Position | Tenure | Compensation | Ownership |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Executive Chairman | 31.2yrs | US$15.54m | 0.42% $ 104.3m | |
| Independent Director | less than a year | US$216.78k | 0.00080% $ 199.0k | |
| Independent Director | 11.4yrs | US$345.35k | 0.024% $ 6.1m | |
| Lead Independent Director | 18.3yrs | US$352.85k | 0.031% $ 7.7m | |
| Independent Director | 6.9yrs | US$369.24k | 0.0051% $ 1.3m | |
| Independent Director | 1.7yrs | US$328.70k | 0.0021% $ 512.3k | |
| Independent Director | 5yrs | US$348.07k | 0.0067% $ 1.7m |
6.9yrs
Average Tenure
68yo
Average Age
Experienced Board: VRSN's board of directors are considered experienced (6.9 years average tenure).
Company Analysis and Financial Data Status
| Data | Last Updated (UTC time) |
|---|---|
| Company Analysis | 2026/06/16 12:33 |
| End of Day Share Price | 2026/06/16 00:00 |
| Earnings | 2026/03/31 |
| Annual Earnings | 2025/12/31 |
Data Sources
The data used in our company analysis is from S&P Global Market Intelligence LLC. The following data is used in our analysis model to generate this report. Data is normalised which can introduce a delay from the source being available.
| Package | Data | Timeframe | Example US Source * |
|---|---|---|---|
| Company Financials | 10 years |
| |
| Analyst Consensus Estimates | +3 years |
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| Market Prices | 30 years |
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| Ownership | 10 years |
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| Management | 10 years |
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| Key Developments | 10 years |
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* Example for US securities, for non-US equivalent regulatory forms and sources are used.
Unless specified all financial data is based on a yearly period but updated quarterly. This is known as Trailing Twelve Month (TTM) or Last Twelve Month (LTM) Data. Learn more.
Analysis Model and Snowflake
Details of the analysis model used to generate this report is available on our Github page, we also have guides on how to use our reports and tutorials on Youtube.
Learn about the world class team who designed and built the Simply Wall St analysis model.
Industry and Sector Metrics
Our industry and section metrics are calculated every 6 hours by Simply Wall St, details of our process are available on Github.
Analyst Sources
VeriSign, Inc. is covered by 18 analysts. 4 of those analysts submitted the estimates of revenue or earnings used as inputs to our report. Analysts submissions are updated throughout the day.
| Analyst | Institution |
|---|---|
| Robert Oliver | Baird |
| Israel Hernandez | Barclays |
| Jaimin Soni | BofA Global Research |