Pavel Durov and Telegram Aim to Lead Cryptocurrency Mass Adoption Through Embedded TON Blockchain Wallet
Pavel Durov, CEO of Telegram, is playing a pivotal role in advancing the mass adoption of cryptocurrency by embedding the TON blockchain wallet directly into Telegram. This integration is designed to create a crypto on-ramp as seamless as sending a message, positioning Telegram to become the largest mass-market crypto on-ramp and on-platform asset service.
In May 2025, Telegram raised $1.7 billion through a convertible-bond tender offer, attracting major investors such as BlackRock, Mubadala, and Citadel, underscoring mainstream financial interest in the platform's crypto ambitions. BlackRock's involvement signaled significant investor attention to Telegram throughout 2025.
Durov, known for his advocacy of privacy and free speech, faced legal challenges in August 2024 when French authorities imposed travel restrictions on him related to preliminary charges involving drug trafficking, money laundering, and fraud allegedly facilitated via Telegram. His passport was returned in March 2025, an event that coincided with a 20% increase in the TON token's value.
In efforts to combat illicit activities on its platform, Telegram partnered with blockchain analytics firm Elliptic in 2025 to shut down cryptocurrency marketplaces Xinbi and Haowang (formerly Huione), which were believed to have processed over $40 billion in transactions on Telegram since 2021.
This coverage is part of CoinDesk's Most Influential 2025 list, highlighting the strategic developments that position Pavel Durov and Telegram at the forefront of cryptocurrency adoption through the integration of the TON blockchain and wallet.
