Can a holding company own several websites and brands?

Yes, a single holding company can own multiple websites and brands. The websites are assets of the holding company, or you can set up subsidiaries under it. The key is how you structure ownership and registration, though.

This. One holding LLC owning multiple operating LLCs is common. You don't need a separate LLC for each site unless liability separation is critical for you.

But does that actually keep your name private? The holding company might be anonymous, but if it owns operating LLCs, those operating LLCs still have to file with the state. Depending on the state, the member name might show up.

You can use a registered agent and a nominee service for the operating entities. In states like Wyoming or New Mexico, member names aren't public. So the holding company can be anonymous, and the operating LLCs can also be anonymous if formed in those states.

Right. The holding company doesn't have to be in the same state as the operating companies. You can have a Wyoming holding LLC that owns a Delaware operating LLC, for example.

Correct, as long as you use a registered agent for each entity and don't list yourself as a manager or member on the public filings. But remember, the registered agent's name and address will be public.

Also, if you're the one signing the formation documents, your signature might be on file with the state, but it's not necessarily public. Still, some states require an organizer to be listed. Wyoming does not require member disclosure but does require a registered agent.

I've done this. One holding company owns several brands. Each brand is just a dba or a separate LLC. The holding company is anonymous. The operating LLCs are also anonymous. It works, but you need to be careful with banking and payment processors. They often want to know who the beneficial owners are.

What about the websites themselves? If you have privacy on the domain registration (WHOIS privacy), and the hosting is in the company's name, does that help? Or does the holding company structure cover that?

Domain privacy is separate. You should use WHOIS privacy for each domain, and make sure the registrant is the holding company or operating LLC, not you personally. The holding structure doesn't automatically hide domain ownership.

And if you're usingg a service like Amazon FBA or Shopify, they might require your personal info for verification. That's a separate privacy issue.

I think the bigger question is liability. If one website gets sued, does the holding company protect the other websites? If they're akl under one holding company, maybe not. That's why some people use separate LLCs for each brand.

That's a good point. The holding company can own multiple brands, but if you want liability isolation, you'd want each brand in its own LLC. Then the holding company owns the LLCs. That's more expensive but safer.