Telegram has reached profitability for the first time, with its revenue surpassing $1 billion in 2024.
Revealed by founder Pavel Durov, this is a big win for the messaging platform as it continually expands its user base and monetisation measures despite challenges.
“This year, the number of Telegram Premium subscribers tripled, exceeding 12 million,” Durov disclosed in a recent statement. “Our ad revenue also increased a few times. Telegram’s total revenue in 2024 surpassed $1 billion, and we are closing the year with more than $500 million in cash reserves, not including crypto assets.”
The growth in premium subscriptions, launched in 2022, has been a huge driver of this success. Telegram’s innovative monetisation strategies introduced in 2024 have also helped in getting to this point.
Features such as Stars, Gifts, Giveaways, the Affiliate Platform, Telegram Business, and Telegram Gateway have provided new revenue streams while preserving the platform’s core values.
“Our innovations in monetisation this year demonstrate that social media platforms can achieve financial sustainability while staying independent and respecting users’ rights,” Durov added.
In addition to increasing revenue, Telegram has also reduced its debt obligations. Over the past four years, the company issued around $2 billion in bonds to fund its operations.
However, Durov confirmed that a “meaningful share” of this debt was repaid this autumn. “We took advantage of favourable prices for the Telegram bonds,” he explained.
Nonetheless, in all these, Durov acknowledged the challenges that still hit the platform. “But there’s a lot of work ahead,” he said, emphasising Telegram’s focus on continuous growth and innovation.
Telegram, which now has over 950 million monthly active users, has also expanded its offerings for businesses and content creators. The platform has introduced features like an ad revenue-sharing service and a mini-app store, enabling creators to monetise content and businesses to reach a broader audience.
Earlier this year, Durov hinted at long-term goals for the platform, including a possible public listing. For now, Telegram appears to be firmly on the path to sustained profitability, leveraging its user-centric approach to remain competitive in the social media sector.
