tech
December 30, 2025
Pavel Durov’s Russian biographer explains the tech-bro feudalism that drives Telegram
Earlier this year, Telegram raised $1.7 billion from convertible bonds — funds earmarked to pay off debt due next year, leaving about $745 million in surplus. In December 2024, in its first profitable year, the company reportedly earned a profit of $540 million on revenue of $1.4 billion. This year, Telegram’s profits are expected to top $700 million on $2 billion in revenue. The social network reportedly has more than 1 billion monthly active users, including 15 million paid subscribers — a figure that has doubled over the past year.
TL;DR
- Telegram raised $1.7 billion from convertible bonds, with surplus funds for debt payoff.
- The company reportedly earned $540 million in profit on $1.4 billion revenue in December 2024.
- Profits are expected to exceed $700 million on $2 billion revenue this year.
- Telegram has over 1 billion monthly active users and 15 million paid subscribers.
- Founder Pavel Durov's travel ban was lifted by French authorities after his arrest in August 2024.
- A new book, "The Populist: The Untold Story of Pavel Durov and Telegram," explores Durov's strategy, mindset, and conservative political views.
- The book discusses Telegram's moderation politics, cryptocurrency journey, and expansion efforts.
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