Elon Musk's X Unveils Username Marketplace for Premium Users

Key Points:* Elon Musk’s X initiates an exclusive username marketplace.

• The marketplace caters to Premium users with unused handles.
• This move introduces new monetization channels for X. Elon Musk’s X platform launches the “X Handle Marketplace,” allowing Premium Plus and Business users access to unused usernames, offering both complimentary and paid options, effective October 20th.

This launch introduces a new revenue stream through username scarcity while aligning with Musk’s vision for a subscription-driven model, though no cryptocurrency integration occurs.

Exclusive X Handle Marketplace Launched with High-Priced Usernames

The X Handle Marketplace has launched as an industry-first platform for redistributing unused usernames. Premium Plus and Premium Business subscribers can explore both complimentary and paid handle options, as announced by the official [@XHandles account]. Priority usernames are available for free, while Rare usernames start at $2,500 and may exceed seven figures.

Username changes on the platform also involve specific rules: once changed, a user’s old username is frozen, and downgrading the subscription reverts it automatically. The platform foresees a paid redirection feature as possibly available in the future.

Market and industry reactions focus on the platform’s monetization approach by creating a recurring revenue stream through username scarcity. As of now, no blockchain integrations or cryptocurrency transactions are noted, with operations remaining within X’s centralized systems.

Digital Identity Monetization and Its Implications

Did you know? The concept of username trading mimics traditional domain name markets, showcasing a long history of monetizing digital identity scarcity akin to established practices on platforms like GoDaddy and Namecheap.

According to CoinMarketCap, Ethereum (ETH) holds a market cap of formatNumber(464646428462, 2) with a current price of $3,945.77 as of October 20, 2025. With a market dominance at 12.70%, it faced a 1.78% 24-hour growth, despite a 5.87% decline in the last 7 days.

Ethereum(ETH), daily chart, screenshot on CoinMarketCap at 01:55 UTC on October 20, 2025. Source: CoinMarketCap Insights from the Coincu research team suggest potential regulatory scrutiny due to evolving digital identity landscapes. Monetization strategies like those of X could influence future web3 projects and centralized platforms, emphasizing the growing intersection between digital identity and monetary systems.