Messaging platform Discord is reportedly considering an initial public offering (IPO), according to unnamed sources cited by The New York Times.
The publication reports that Discord executives have recently consulted with investment bankers regarding preliminary preparations for a potential IPO that could occur within the current year. The company was last valued at approximately $15 billion during its 2021 funding round.
Responding to these reports, a Discord spokesperson stated: "While we appreciate the interest in Discord's future direction, we don't engage with rumors or speculation. Our priority continues to be enhancing user experience and developing a sustainable business model."
The platform has seen significant growth throughout its history, particularly within gaming circles, owing to its gaming-centric functionalities and superior moderation tools compared to competitors. Discord's integration with PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series consoles provides seamless voice chat capabilities, while recent updates have introduced streaming services. Crucially, Discord maintains free basic services while offering premium features through optional subscriptions.
The IPO news has generated concern among some users regarding potential future changes to the platform's operations. A highly-rated comment on r/Discordapp states: "Here we go again - every time a company goes public, quality takes a nosedge. Which communications platform will emerge as the next 'we won't sell out' alternative?"
Similar skepticism appears on r/technology, with users commenting "Farewell Discord - entering the endless growth treadmill," reflecting broader concerns about corporate shifts.
These development reports follow previously documented acquisition discussions. In 2021, Discord reportedly engaged in talks with multiple potential buyers including Microsoft before ultimately choosing to remain independent and pursue eventual public listing.
