Website won't be renewed if billing info is not updated within seven years. I am sure credit card is renewed within that time frame. However, there is no excuse for expired domain name, it could be done because of technical issues but it is not unfortunately.
They cannot buy any share in blackout and they didn't buy or sell any since last April either... I expect this company to be bought out but not at this current state without license or any steady revenue/income yet. I don't know how much its worth on paper for patents licenses technology etc..
It could be third party hostile takeover as Ebota pointed out.
PS: Uncertainty with HC and company just whip cream for manipulators. So, Mike W. gotta come out and say something
All speculation in the end...