Telegram, the encrypted messaging app, has achieved a remarkable milestone by exceeding 900 million monthly active users. With a surge in user growth, the company is now inching closer to profitability and is contemplating an initial public offering (IPO) as a strategic move.
Pavel Durov, the visionary founder of Telegram, disclosed that the platform is reaping substantial revenue, primarily sourced from advertising and premium subscriptions introduced two years ago. He anticipates Telegram to turn profitable by the end of the current year or the beginning of the next.
The exponential expansion of Telegram’s user base has solidified its position as a frontrunner in the global social media landscape, doubling from 500 million earlier in 2021. Moreover, the company has secured debt financing amounting to around $2 billion, convertible into equity at a discounted rate before March 2026.
In a bid to enhance revenue streams, Telegram is rolling out innovative features like revenue sharing for content creators, business accounts, and a cutting-edge “social discovery” tool. Additionally, the platform is delving into artificial intelligence (AI) technologies, including AI-driven chatbots and moderation enhancements.
Despite enticing offers from tech giants valuing Telegram at over $30 billion, Durov is steadfast in preserving Telegram’s independence, rebuffing acquisition proposals. He envisions an IPO as a strategy to democratize access to Telegram’s value, possibly extending share allocations to loyal users.
The potential IPO of Telegram is poised to be a momentous development, given its massive user base and promising financial outlook. While contemplating various options for the IPO, including a listing in the US, Telegram is yet to unveil a definitive timeline for the IPO rollout.
The trajectory of Telegram, with its remarkable user growth and revenue strategies, underscores its formidable presence in the digital realm and signals a dynamic evolution in the company’s prospects. Stay tuned for more updates on Telegram’s journey towards potential IPO success.
