Telegram, the renowned encrypted messaging platform, has reached a monumental milestone by surpassing 900 million monthly active users, signaling a remarkable trajectory towards profitability. Founder Pavel Durov unveiled that Telegram is contemplating an initial public offering (IPO) to capitalize on its growth and revenue streams, including advertising and premium subscriptions introduced two years ago.
Based in Dubai, the company has witnessed an exponential surge in its user base, doubling from 500 million in early 2021 to the current 900 million, cementing its status as a global social media giant. Revenue, estimated in the “hundreds of millions of dollars,” stems from diverse monetization strategies such as premium subscriptions and advertising solutions.
Expressing confidence in Telegram’s financial outlook, Durov envisions profitability “next year, if not this year,” despite tempting offers from tech investors valuing the company at over $30 billion. Upholding Telegram’s independence remains a paramount goal for Durov, driving the decision to monetize the service.
Innovative initiatives including revenue sharing for content creators, business accounts, and a “social discovery” tool augment Telegram’s revenue potential. Moreover, the integration of AI-driven chatbots and moderation enhancements, alongside blockchain endeavors through the TON foundation and a self-custodial crypto wallet, enriches its ecosystem.
An IPO looms on the horizon, poised to furnish Telegram with essential capital for expansion and fortify its competitive stance against behemoths like Meta Platforms’ WhatsApp. While the exact IPO timeline remains nebulous, it emerges as a tangible prospect once profitability is attained and market conditions align favorably. Telegram’s potential IPO emerges as a pivotal event, underscoring its vast user base and promising financial trajectory.