Discord, the popular chat platform beloved by gamers and beyond, is reportedly eyeing an initial public offering (IPO), according to sources cited by The New York Times. Recent meetings between Discord leadership and investment bankers suggest preparations are underway for a potential IPO as early as this year. Discord's last valuation, in 2021, pegged its worth at approximately $15 billion.
While a Discord spokesperson declined to comment on speculation regarding future plans, emphasizing their commitment to user experience and business sustainability, the news has sparked considerable discussion online. Discord's rise to prominence is largely attributed to its user-friendly features, robust moderation tools, and strong community focus, setting it apart from competitors. Integration with PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series consoles for seamless voice chat, along with recent streaming capabilities, further solidified its position. Importantly, Discord remains free to use, offering various monetized options for enhanced customization.
However, the IPO news has ignited concerns among users. Reddit threads on r/Discordapp and r/technology express apprehension that an IPO could negatively impact Discord's functionality and overall user experience, mirroring anxieties seen with other platforms following similar financial maneuvers. Comments highlight fears of prioritizing profit over user experience, a common concern surrounding IPOs.
This IPO consideration isn't entirely unexpected. In 2021, reports surfaced of Discord engaging in acquisition talks with several companies, including Microsoft. However, the company ultimately opted to pursue an independent path, focusing instead on an IPO.
