Telegram asserts control over TON blockchain, driving momentum

Telegram has officially assumed primary operational control of the TON blockchain, replacing the TON Foundation as the main operator. This move led to a 36% surge in Toncoin's price, reaching a four-month high. Telegram is now the largest validator, staking 2.2 million TON and significantly reducing transaction fees to approximately 0.00039 TON, regardless of network congestion. This control grants Telegram direct influence over block production and network governance, leveraging its 900 million user base to bolster its own blockchain infrastructure. Founder Pavel Durov emphasized "tech superiority," promising new developer tools, performance upgrades, and a website redesign within weeks. Previously, Telegram mandated that all non-TON Mini Apps migrate to the TON network by February 21, 2025, ensuring its app ecosystem remains on TON. While the market reacted positively to Telegram's user base and reduced fees, risks include a single point of failure with Telegram as the largest validator and key-person risk associated with founder Pavel Durov's legal history.

(Source：Crypto Briefing)