[throwawaylinux]

> I mean, if the .com registry said to Google “renewals are $10B for Google.com or we let someone else have the domain”, that would border on extortion.

I don't think it would be extortion, it would just be Verisign breaching their agreement with ICANN.

> People build brands on these, and it’s odd that you can’t permanently buy one or at least have a predictable cap on price increases.

I think you could have those things if you use services that are backed with appropriate contracts or regulations. It's more odd that people would build their brand using a company that is not known for providing stable, consistent, long term products and services.