Telegram Ceo Net Worth (Updated 2025).
Telegram CEO, Pavel Durov, began his career in the tech industry at a young age. Born in Russia, Durov demonstrated an early aptitude for computers and programming, which led him to study Philology at the prestigious Saint Petersburg State University. However, his passion for technology drew him towards entrepreneurship, marking the start of his journey to fame.
In 2006, Durov and his brother Nikolai launched VKontakte, a social networking site that would eventually become Russia’s largest social network. Durov’s innovative approach to the platform, which was modeled after Facebook but tailored to the Russian market, quickly gained popularity. His ability to navigate the complex political and business landscape of Russia, while maintaining VKontakte’s independence and integrity, earned him respect and notoriety in the tech world.
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Telegram CEO’s Current Net Worth (2025)
As of 2025, Telegram’s CEO, Pavel Durov, has an estimated net worth of $15.3 billion, according to Forbes. This significant increase from his 2021 net worth of $3.5 billion can be attributed to Telegram’s growing user base and Durov’s 100% ownership of the company.
Career
Pavel Durov, born in 1984, is a Russian entrepreneur and the CEO of Telegram. He co-founded VK, Russia’s largest social network, in 2006. After leaving VK in 2014, Durov launched Telegram in 2013, a messaging app known for its speed, security, and large group chats.
Other Ventures
Besides Telegram, Durov has invested in several other tech projects. He backed the development of the blockchain platform TON (Telegram Open Network) and the cryptocurrency Gram. Additionally, he has invested in various startups through his venture capital firm, American Express Ventures.
Assets
Durov’s primary asset is his 100% stake in Telegram, valued at over $15 billion. He also owns a 10% stake in the Russian social network Odnoklassniki. Durov is known for his lavish spending, having purchased a 15% stake in the English Premier League football club FC Chelsea in 2022, although he later sold it.
Annual Income
Durov’s annual income is primarily derived from Telegram’s revenue, which comes from its Premium subscription service and cloud-based platform. As of 2025, his annual income is estimated to be around $1.5 billion. However, he has stated that he does not draw a salary from Telegram and lives modestly compared to his net worth.
Frequently Asked Questions about Telegram Ceo
**Frequently Asked Questions: Telegram CEO Net Worth**
1. Who is the CEO of Telegram?
The CEO of Telegram is Pavel Durov.
2. When was Telegram founded?
Telegram was launched in August 2013.
3. What is Pavel Durov’s background?
Pavel Durov is a Russian entrepreneur. He co-founded the social network VK (formerly VKontakte) in 2006 and later started Telegram.
4. How does Telegram make money?
Telegram is currently ad-free and does not sell user data. It plans to introduce optional premium features and services in the future to generate revenue.
5. What is Telegram’s user base?
As of 2021, Telegram has over 500 million users worldwide.
6. What is Pavel Durov’s net worth?
Pavel Durov’s net worth is estimated to be around $3.5 billion.
7. How did Pavel Durov make his fortune?
Durov made his fortune primarily through his stake in VK, which he sold in 2014. He has since invested in various projects, including Telegram.
8. What is Pavel Durov’s involvement in politics?
Durov is known for his political views and has been critical of the Russian government. He has also donated to various political causes.
9. What is Pavel Durov’s stance on privacy and encryption?
Durov is a strong advocate for privacy and encryption. Telegram offers end-to-end encryption for its secret chats and uses client-server encryption for cloud chats.
10. What are Pavel Durov’s future plans for Telegram?
Durov has mentioned plans to introduce premium features, such as advanced cloud functionality and faster download speeds, to generate revenue. He also aims to make Telegram the largest and most innovative messaging platform.
