Discord Is Reportedly Exploring an IPO

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 sustainable business growth, the news has sparked considerable online discussion. Discord’s widespread popularity, particularly within the gaming community, is attributed to its user-friendly features, robust moderation tools, and seamless integration with consoles like PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S, offering convenient voice and streaming capabilities. The platform’s free-to-use model, complemented by various monetized options for enhanced features, has further fueled its success.

However, concerns have already surfaced among users regarding the potential negative impact of an IPO on Discord's functionality. Reddit threads on r/Discordapp and r/technology reflect anxieties about the consequences of prioritizing “infinite growth,” echoing common fears surrounding the effects of public offerings on previously beloved platforms. Comments express apprehension that an IPO might compromise Discord's current strengths.

This IPO consideration isn't entirely unexpected. In 2021, reports surfaced of Discord's engagement with potential buyers, including Microsoft. However, the company ultimately opted to pursue independence and an IPO instead.