Pavel Durov, the mastermind behind the popular messaging app Telegram, has amassed a net worth of $15.5 billion. Originally from Russia, Durov made a bold move a decade ago by relocating to Dubai, where he currently resides.
The Genesis of Telegram
Back in 2013, Pavel Durov, alongside his brother Nikolai, co-founded the encrypted messaging service Telegram. The platform has gained widespread popularity, boasting a staggering 950 million active users and a valuation exceeding $30 billion.
A Brush with Controversy
Durov's journey to success was not without its share of challenges. Prior to Telegram, he founded Vkontakte, a Russian social network, in 2006. Despite selling a 12% stake for $300 million in 2015, political tensions arose when Durov resisted the Kremlin's demands for access to user data, particularly related to Ukrainian protest leaders.
Clashes with the Kremlin
Durov's principled stand against the Russian government extended to Telegram, leading to a ban in 2018 due to his refusal to compromise user data security. This move sparked public outrage and protests, eventually resulting in the app's reinstatement in Russia two years later.
Ukraine Conflict and Cryptocurrency Ventures
Amid the Ukraine conflict, Durov pledged to safeguard the privacy of Ukrainian users on Telegram. Additionally, he ventured into the world of cryptocurrency with the launch of Fragment, a wallet that garnered significant attention and transactions.
A Global Citizen
Transitioning to life in Dubai in 2017, Durov shifted Telegram's operational hub to the city, citing favorable conditions such as the absence of personal income tax. Obtaining citizenship in the UAE and later in France, Durov maintains a cosmopolitan outlook on his company's base.
Social Media Quirks and Personal Life
Durov's flamboyant social media presence has made headlines, from yacht escapades to unconventional Tinder profiles. His outspoken views on Silicon Valley and dedication to Telegram's security underscore his strong-willed persona.
Legal Troubles and Elon Musk's Commentary
In a surprising turn of events, French authorities arrested Durov in 2024 over alleged criminal activities linked to Telegram. The incident, which garnered attention from tech mogul Elon Musk, serves as a reminder of the high-stakes landscape Durov navigates.
As Pavel Durov's story unfolds, his impact on the tech world and commitment to user privacy continue to shape the digital realm.
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By: mdescalsota@insider.com (Marielle Descalsota,Katie Balevic)
Title: Meet Pavel Durov: The Tech Billionaire Behind Telegram
Sourced From: www.businessinsider.com/pavel-durov-telegram-billionaire-russia-instagram-wealth-founder-dubai-lifestyle-2022-3
Published Date: Sun, 25 Aug 2024 19:36:51 +0000
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