Ahrefs' DR algorithm update rattles indie startup directories' business model
gaganghotra_ · x · 2026-11-07
After SEO tool Ahrefs changed its Domain Rating (DR) algorithm, the indie community is split. Many running startup listing directories saw their DR drop — and DR was the sole metric they used to sell placements and attract more listings.
It's a concrete warning for directory-style side businesses: models built on a single DR metric are exposed, and shifting to traffic and conversion metrics looks necessary.
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