Telegram has reached a significant milestone by surpassing $1 billion in annual revenue in 2024, marking its first profitable year since its inception. The messaging platform now holds over $500 million in cash reserves, excluding cryptocurrency assets.
According to founder Pavel Durov, the number of Telegram Premium subscribers has tripled, exceeding 12 million users. Meanwhile, advertising revenue has also experienced substantial growth, contributing to the company’s remarkable financial success.
Telegram’s path to profitability has been challenging. In addition to regulatory hurdles, the company faced a $2 billion debt burden. Fortunately, thanks to favorable bond market conditions, Telegram significantly reduced this debt earlier this fall. However, Durov acknowledged that there is still much work to be done.
Over the past four years, Telegram has launched several revenue-generating initiatives such as Stars, Gifts, Mini Apps, and Telegram Business. These efforts underscore its commitment to building a sustainable business model while safeguarding user autonomy.
Despite increasing scrutiny over content moderation, Telegram continues to experience impressive growth, with approximately 850 million monthly active users. The company has also improved its moderation processes to reassure investors about its long-term growth prospects.
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Looking ahead, Telegram is considering the possibility of an IPO or merger. According to Durov, generating revenue is not just about financial independence but also about ensuring sustainable growth. If it decides to go public, Telegram may follow Reddit’s example, prioritizing stock allocation for its loyal users.
