PARIS – Telegram CEO Pavel Durov has revealed a plan to share his $13.9 billion fortune among his more than 100 children, ensuring equality among them.
Pavel Durov, the Russian-born entrepreneur and cofounder of Telegram, recently disclosed in an interview with the French publication Le Point that he has fathered over 100 children across 12 countries. This revelation has sparked widespread interest due to Durov’s decision to distribute his substantial wealth equally among his offspring.
Immediate Impact
The announcement comes as Durov, known for his role in establishing the messaging platform Telegram, emphasized his commitment to treating all his children equally, regardless of how they were conceived. He is the “official father” of six children from three partners and has contributed to the birth of many others through sperm donations.
“I make no difference between my children. There are those who were conceived naturally and those who come from my sperm donations,” Durov stated, underscoring his intent to avoid familial discord after his passing.
Key Details Emerge
Durov, whose net worth is estimated at nearly $14 billion by the Bloomberg Billionaires Index, has taken steps to ensure his children do not become reliant on his wealth too early. He has stipulated in his will that his children will not access his fortune until 30 years from now, encouraging them to develop independence and resilience.
“I want them to live like normal people, to build themselves up alone, to learn to trust themselves, to be able to create, not to be dependent on a bank account,” he told Le Point.
Industry Response
This development builds on Durov’s reputation as a tech innovator and a controversial figure. His decision has drawn comparisons to other tech moguls, such as Elon Musk, who also has a large number of children. However, Durov distinguishes himself by focusing on a single company and maintaining a disciplined lifestyle.
“Elon runs several companies at once, while I only run one. Elon can be very emotional, while I try to think deeply before acting,” Durov noted, highlighting his contrasting approach to business and life.
Background Context
Durov founded Telegram in 2013 after leaving the Russian social media platform VK. Telegram has since grown to approximately 1 billion active users globally. Despite his success, Durov’s journey has not been without challenges. Last year, he faced legal issues in France, where authorities accused him of enabling criminal activities on Telegram—a charge he has consistently denied.
In an interview with Tucker Carlson, Durov mentioned the ongoing impact of these accusations on his ability to travel freely, indicating the lasting effects of such legal battles.
Expert Analysis
According to sources familiar with Durov’s work, his decision to write a will at the age of 40 is influenced by the inherent risks of his profession and the adversaries he faces from powerful states. This foresight reflects his understanding of the precarious nature of his position.
What Comes Next
The timing is particularly significant because Durov’s approach may inspire other entrepreneurs to consider similar measures for wealth distribution. As his children grow and the waiting period for accessing the fortune progresses, it remains to be seen how his legacy will influence future generations.
Meanwhile, industry experts warn that Durov’s strategy could set a precedent for tech leaders in managing their fortunes and family dynamics.
As this story unfolds, the world will be watching how Durov’s unique approach to wealth distribution and family management impacts the tech industry and beyond.
