Telegram
Encrypted messaging platform with 1B+ MAUs and emerging crypto + paid features
Consumer
📍 Dubai, UAE
Founded 2013
Current Valuation
$30B
as of 2024-Q1
DECACORN
Telegram is the world's largest non-Western messenger, with 1B+ monthly users. Founder Pavel Durov was detained in France in August 2024 over moderation policies. Generating revenue via Telegram Premium subscriptions, ads in public channels, and integration with the TON blockchain (built by founders, now separate).
Company Profile
Last Round
Pre-IPO convertible bond — $330M (Mar 2024) · Lead: Mubadala
Founders & Key People
Pavel DurovNikolai Durov
Investors
Mubadala · Abu Dhabi Catalyst Partners · Roman Abramovich · Bondholders (ICO + 2021 bond)
Products
- Telegram Messenger
- Telegram Premium
- TON blockchain integration
- Stars (in-app currency)
Competitors
WhatsApp (Meta) · Signal · WeChat · Discord
MessagingConsumerCryptoTON
Private-company numbers are not real-time. Reflects publicly disclosed valuations from press releases, news reports, and tender offers as of 2024-Q1. Refreshed quarterly.