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 familiar with the matter who spoke to 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, placed its worth at approximately $15 billion.

In response to the reports, a Discord spokesperson offered a standard non-committal statement to The New York Times: “We understand there is a lot of interest around Discord’s future plans, but we do not comment on rumors or speculation. Our focus remains on delivering the best possible experience for our users and building a strong, sustainable business.”

Discord’s rise to prominence, particularly within the gaming community, is undeniable. Its user-friendly interface, robust moderation tools, and extensive gaming-centric features have set it apart from competitors. Integration with PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series consoles, offering seamless voice chat during gameplay, further solidified its position. The addition of streaming capabilities enhances its appeal. Crucially, Discord remains free to use, offering various monetized options for users seeking enhanced customization.

However, news of a potential IPO has sparked considerable user apprehension. Concerns regarding the long-term impact on Discord's functionality are widespread. A highly upvoted comment on r/Discordapp reflects this sentiment: "Whelp! It's been fun, but anytime someone decides they want to 'make a public offering' then the company everything goes to shit. What's the next communications platform promising to not sell out, like all the others?" Similar anxieties are echoed on r/technology, with a prevailing sentiment of "Rip Discord, brought into the cycle of infinite growth at any cost."

These IPO reports are not entirely unexpected. In 2021, it was reported that Discord was in discussions with at least three potential buyers, including Microsoft. A month later, however, reports surfaced indicating the company's decision to pursue an independent path through an IPO.