TECHNOLOGY

TELEGRAM FOUNDER PAVEL DUROV TO SHARE $17B FORTUNE WITH OVER 100 CHILDREN
Telegram founder Pavel Durov has announced plans to divide his $17.1 billion fortune among more than 106 children.
In an interview with Le Point, the 40-year-old tech billionaire said he has six biological children and has anonymously donated sperm in 12 countries, fathering over 100 more.
“I don’t distinguish between them — whether conceived naturally or through donation, they are all my children and will receive equal rights,” Durov stated.
He emphasized that none of the children will receive any inheritance until June 19, 2055 — exactly 30 years from the date of the interview. His goal, he said, is to ensure they grow up grounded.
“I want them to live normal lives and succeed on their own, not depend on wealth,” he said.
Durov explained that he's distributing his estate now due to the potential risks tied to his role at Telegram. He referenced ongoing legal troubles, including his 2024 arrest in France over allegations that Telegram enabled illegal content sharing.
Though currently under judicial supervision in France, Durov maintains his innocence.
“Nothing has ever proven me guilty — not even for a second,” he said. “When you fight for freedom, you make powerful enemies, even at the state level.”
"This represents a significant development in our ongoing coverage of current events."— Editorial Board