Pavel Durov-led Telegram is now a $30 billion company that operates with just 30 employees working remotely, serving over 1 billion users

Telegram, the messaging app, created by Pavel Durov, is now valued at around $30 billion and serves over 1 billion users. The surprising part is that the company runs with only 30 employees.

This success comes from smart use of technology, automation, and a strong focus on privacy. Telegram’s story shows how a small and committed team can compete with the biggest players in the tech industry.

How Telegram Runs a Billion-User App with Only 30 People

When Durov shared that Telegram had crossed 1 billion active users, many couldn’t believe that such a small team could manage such a huge platform. But Telegram’s setup is far from traditional.

Here’s how it works:

• Automation does most of the heavy lifting - Bots handle customer support and moderation tasks, reducing the need for large departments.

• No central office -Employees work remotely from different countries, allowing flexibility and cutting costs.

• Flat team structure - Durov directly collaborates with developers and designers, removing unnecessary layers of management.

• Focus on performance and privacy -Every decision is guided by these two principles.

This setup allows Telegram to stay fast, adaptable, and cost-efficient. With fewer people involved, decisions happen quickly, updates roll out faster, and the company remains tightly focused on its mission.

Telegram’s small team proves that modern technology and automation can replace the need for thousands of employees, without affecting quality or scale.

Also Read: Amazon to launch AI smart glasses with built-in camera, heads-up display and controller for delivery drivers

Telegram’s Simple and Profitable Business Model

For many years, Telegram did not generate revenue. The company avoided ads and never sold user data. In 2022, Telegram launched Telegram Premium, a paid plan with extra features such as:

• Faster download speeds

• Larger 4 GB file uploads

• Exclusive stickers and reactions

• An ad-free experience

The Premium plan is optional. The main app remains free for everyone. This model has helped Telegram earn hundreds of millions of dollars each year while maintaining its promise of privacy.

Telegram’s independence is still a key factor in its decision-making, but the company has engaged with external investors and raised capital through bonds to support growth:

• External funding:Telegram has raised money through bonds and investments from entities like Abu Dhabi Catalyst Partners and Mubadala Investment Company.

• Convertible bonds:In 2025, the company raised $1.7 billion in convertible bonds to refinance debt and fund global expansion.

• Privacy focus maintained: Despite outside funding, user privacy and platform independence remain priorities.

This approach allows Telegram to grow and expand while keeping its core principles intact.

Also Read: 90% of work on Gaganyaan mission completed: ISRO Chief V Narayanan

Why Privacy Made Telegram a Global Success

Telegram was launched in 2013 after Durov left VKontakte due to government pressure. He aimed to create a messaging app that gave users control over their data and communication.

The platform uses MTProto, a system designed for fast and secure messaging. It works even in regions with weak internet or strict online regulations. This helped Telegram become popular in countries where other apps were restricted.

Durov said in a recent post:

“Telegram now has significantly over 1 billion monthly active users, becoming the second most popular messaging app in the world (excluding WeChat).”

Telegram’s strong privacy stance, simple design, and reliable performance have built global trust. Millions use it for personal chats, business communication, and community updates.

Also Read: “If she’s a 10, you’re an asset”: Elon Musk reacts to reports that foreign spies are waging ‘sex warfare’ to steal tech secrets

Telegram’s Valuation and Financial Growth in 2025

As of October 2025, Telegram is valued at $30–40 billion. Despite having only 30 employees, it achieved profitability in 2024, generating over $1 billion in revenue. Key income sources include premium subscriptions, advertising on public channels, and crypto-based ventures.

Telegram’s blockchain initiative, The Open Platform (TOP), reached a $1 billion valuation in July 2025 after raising $28.5 million.

Key financial highlights:

• Valuation: $30 billion

• Annual revenue (2024): Over $1 billion

• Profitability: Achieved in 2024

• Funding:$1.7 billion in convertible bonds

Telegram continues to expand while maintaining independence and user trust. An IPO is a potential future step, but the company remains focused on sustainable growth.

Also Read: 'We made this decision through tears': Indian-origin founder opens up about leaving Canada with family