Telegram Rolls Out TON-Based Revenue Sharing System

Telegram, the popular messaging app, has unveiled a revolutionary revenue-sharing system based on Toncoin (TON). This new initiative aims to incentivize content creators by allowing them to earn a substantial share of the revenue generated from advertisements displayed on their channels. Announced on March 31, 2024, the program promises to allocate 50% of ad revenues to channel owners, marking a significant shift in the social media monetization landscape.

Details of the Revenue Sharing Program

Telegram’s new revenue-sharing program is designed to be one of the most generous in the social media industry. Effective immediately, public channel owners with a minimum of 1,000 subscribers are eligible to participate. These channel owners will receive 50% of the revenue from ads displayed on their channels, paid in Toncoin (TON). The funds can be withdrawn without any fees or reinvested into various Telegram features such as ads, collectible usernames, or Premium giveaways.

The program is facilitated by a new type of advertisement that users can purchase using TON. Telegram has clarified that these ads are not based on user data but rather depend on the channels in which they are displayed. This approach not only benefits channel owners directly but also enhances user privacy by not tracking personal data for ad targeting.

Implications for Content Creators

For content creators, this new revenue-sharing system presents a lucrative opportunity. By receiving a significant portion of the ad revenue, creators can better monetize their efforts and grow their channels. This initiative is particularly beneficial for those who have built large, engaged audiences on Telegram.

The ability to withdraw funds without fees or reinvest them in Telegram’s ecosystem further enhances the appeal of this program. It provides creators with the flexibility to use their earnings in ways that best support their growth and engagement strategies.

Market Reaction and Toncoin’s Performance

Following the announcement, Toncoin’s price saw a noticeable increase, reflecting investor optimism about the integration of TON into Telegram’s monetization strategy. The price of TON surged by over 5% to $5.48 before settling at around $5.1. This positive market response underscores the potential impact of Telegram’s revenue-sharing program on Toncoin’s value and adoption.

Challenges and Considerations

While the new system offers significant benefits, it also poses challenges and considerations. One concern is the potential concentration of Toncoin within Telegram’s ecosystem. To address this, Telegram plans to limit its TON holdings to 10% and sell any surplus to long-term investors at a discounted rate under a lockup and vesting plan ranging from one to four years. This strategy aims to mitigate risks related to token concentration and ensure a balanced distribution of TON.

Additionally, the program’s success will depend on its ability to attract advertisers and maintain a steady flow of ad revenue. The reliance on TON for ad purchases may limit the pool of potential advertisers, particularly those unfamiliar with or hesitant about using cryptocurrencies.

Future Outlook

Telegram’s TON-based revenue-sharing system represents a bold step in redefining how content creators can monetize their work on social media platforms. By leveraging blockchain technology and cryptocurrencies, Telegram is setting a new standard for transparency and fairness in revenue distribution.

As the program gains traction, it could encourage other social media platforms to explore similar models, potentially leading to a broader shift in the industry towards more equitable and decentralized monetization strategies.

Conclusion

Telegram’s introduction of a TON-based revenue-sharing system marks a significant milestone in the evolution of social media monetization. By offering generous revenue shares and leveraging blockchain technology, Telegram is empowering content creators and setting a new precedent for the industry. As the program unfolds, its impact on the social media landscape and the broader cryptocurrency market will be closely watched by industry stakeholders and users alike.