Toncoin Surges 18% as Telegram Founder Pavel Durov Leaves France

Toncoin (TON), the native cryptocurrency of The Open Network, saw a sharp price increase following reports that Telegram founder Pavel Durov had been granted permission to leave France. The asset surged over 18% in the last 24 hours, reflecting a strong market response to the news.

Durov Departs France After Legal Restrictions

On March 13, a French court reportedly allowed Durov to leave the country, enabling his relocation to Dubai. Sources cited by AFP confirmed his departure, though the exact conditions of the court’s ruling remain unclear. French authorities had initially restricted his movement following his arrest at Le Bourget airport in August 2024. Prosecutors accused him of running a platform that allegedly facilitated illegal activities, and he faced potential charges carrying up to a 10-year prison sentence and a €500,000 fine.

Durov was released on bail but required to stay in France while the investigation continued. His recent departure has sparked speculation about whether he reached a settlement or received temporary permission to leave.

Toncoin’s Price Reacts to Legal Developments

The market reacted positively to Durov’s ability to leave France. According to CoinMarketCap, TON has gained approximately 18% in the last 24 hours and 13% over the past week. The cryptocurrency had previously experienced significant volatility, dropping over 35% after Durov’s arrest in August 2024 and later reaching a low of $2.36 on March 11, 2025.

Historically, TON has been closely tied to Telegram’s ecosystem, despite The Open Network operating separately from the messaging app. In December 2024, TON had rallied to a high of $7.20 amid a broader crypto market uptrend following Donald Trump’s U.S. presidential re-election. However, it later declined by 67%, reflecting market-wide corrections and uncertainty around Durov’s legal situation.

Ongoing Debate Over Online Security and Free Speech

Durov’s departure has reignited discussions about online security, regulation, and freedom of speech. Supporters of Telegram and TON view his release as a victory for digital privacy, while critics argue that authorities must ensure encrypted platforms do not facilitate illicit activities.

As of now, neither Durov nor French officials have made public statements confirming the details of his departure. The market will likely continue reacting to any further developments in his legal case.

What It Means for You [NFA]

Toncoin’s recent price rally highlights how closely market sentiment is tied to legal and regulatory events involving key figures in the crypto space. If you hold TON, this price movement could indicate renewed confidence in the project, but volatility remains a factor.

For traders, the surge might present short-term opportunities, though sharp corrections are always possible. Long-term investors should consider whether the recent rebound reflects lasting momentum or just a temporary reaction to news.

Beyond price action, Durov’s legal situation raises broader questions about regulatory risks in crypto. If authorities continue to scrutinize Telegram’s role in financial transactions, TON could face future challenges. At the same time, supporters see his departure as a positive sign for decentralization and free speech in the digital economy.

As always, do your own research before making investment decisions. Crypto markets react quickly, but understanding the bigger picture is key. [Not Financial Advice]

Community Reaction

There was a great sense of celebration in the entire $TON community and ecosystem. Project accounts, large $TON KOLs and everyone involved seemed super stoked about Pavel’s release. Not difficult to comprehend the 18-20% pump.

• ExitChad sol: “He’s already become a native Frenchman in that time”
• Thomas Jourdan: “Big win for Durov and $TON! Regulatory clarity + bullish momentum = liftoff!”
• Rose Premium Signals: “Huge win! Freedom and $TON stronger!”