Pavel Durov, the founder of Telegram, has made waves by declaring his intention to leave his massive fortune—estimated at $14 billion—to a staggering 106 children he has fathered through sperm donations. Durov’s unique approach to inheritance and wealth distribution is both shocking and intriguing, paving a new path for how generational wealth can be conceived and managed.
106 Children… And Counting
In a recent interview with Le Point magazine, Pavel Durov revealed that he is the legal father of six children from relationships with three women, alongside more than 100 additional children conceived via anonymous sperm donations across 12 countries. He emphasized the importance of equality in his estate plan, stating, “They are all my children and will all have the same rights! I don’t want them to tear each other apart after my death.”
No Access for 30 Years
Durov explained that none of his children will have access to their inheritance for the next 30 years. “I want them to live like normal people, to build themselves up alone, to learn to trust themselves,” he stated, underscoring his desire to prevent entitlement and maintain the independence of Telegram. Should his fortune grow at a conservative average of 5% per year over the next three decades, each child could inherit around $570 million by 2055. However, Durov cautioned that much of his net worth is theoretical, tied to the potential market value of Telegram rather than liquid assets.
From VKontakte to Telegram
Dubbed “Russia’s Mark Zuckerberg,” Durov co-founded VKontakte (VK) in 2006, establishing it as Russia’s largest social network. However, he was ousted by Kremlin-linked shareholders in 2014 and subsequently relocated to Dubai, where he launched Telegram. The platform has since amassed over one billion users and is favored by activists and political dissidents, although its resistance to government oversight has drawn criticism and legal scrutiny.
Legal Troubles in France
In 2024, Durov faced legal troubles when he was arrested in Paris on charges including complicity in drug trafficking and money laundering. He has vehemently denied the allegations, describing them as “totally absurd,” and has pointed out Telegram’s commitment to cooperating with law enforcement when legal protocols are followed.
Refusal To Sell, Commitment to Independence
Durov remains firmly committed to Telegram’s independence, having rejected all acquisition offers, including a notable $1 billion bid from Google in 2017. “Telegram is not for sale,” he stated firmly. If anything were to happen to him, a nonprofit foundation would ensure Telegram continues to operate in alignment with its founding principles.
Minimalist Billionaire
Despite his vast wealth on paper, Durov claims a modest lifestyle. He asserts that Telegram has never paid him a salary or dividend, referencing his early Bitcoin investments as his primary source of liquid assets. Durov maintains a disciplined regimen, refraining from alcohol, sugar, and nicotine, while engaging in a rigorous fitness routine. “I don’t own a house, a yacht, or a private jet,” he said, noting that material possessions could distract him from his mission.
Whether viewed as a revolutionary act of wealth distribution or the creation of an unconventional trust fund, one thing is clear: Pavel Durov’s legacy is shaping the next generation in unique and unprecedented ways.
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