Telegram, the popular messaging app, is making a significant move in the decentralized finance (DeFi) space by introducing yield-earning capabilities for Bitcoin (BTC), Ether (ETH), and Tether’s USDt (USDT) within its built-in crypto wallet, TON Wallet.
“At Wallet in Telegram, our mission is to transform digital assets from complex concepts into practical tools for everyday life,” said Andrew Rogozov, CEO of The Open Platform and Wallet in Telegram. The update introduces vaults in TON Wallet, enabling users to hold, send, and earn returns on major cryptocurrencies without leaving the chat interface.
Simplifying DeFi for the Masses
The system leverages decentralized finance (DeFi) infrastructure provided by lending network Morpho, the TON ecosystem’s execution layer TAC (TON Applications Chain), and strategy provider Re7. These tools operate in the background, allowing users to interact with a simple, user-friendly interface similar to a typical app wallet.
Telegram’s goal is to make earning on crypto more accessible to everyday users by eliminating the technical complexities often associated with DeFi services. Typically, users must navigate multiple wallets, network bridges, and external applications to participate in DeFi earning opportunities. With the new vaults, users can enjoy variable returns while maintaining self-custody of their funds.
Expanding Crypto Earning Options
The vault strategies offer different risk levels, catering to a wide range of users. USDT vaults provide dollar-denominated earning strategies, while BTC and ETH vaults extend the same functionality to two of the largest cryptocurrencies. This feature is particularly significant as it allows users to earn returns on their holdings without the need to move their funds to external platforms.
Telegram also plans to support direct deposits of native Bitcoin and Ether, which will automatically appear in wrapped form within the TON ecosystem. This integration will enable seamless transfers and earning features, further enhancing the user experience.
TON Wallet’s Growing User Base and Revenue
TON Wallet claims to have more than 150 million registered users, a testament to Telegram’s broad reach and the growing interest in crypto within the platform. The company has seen a significant increase in operating revenue, reporting $870 million in the first half of 2025, a 65% increase from $525 million a year earlier. A substantial portion of this revenue, approximately $300 million, comes from exclusivity agreements tied to its associated cryptocurrency Toncoin (TON).
TON Foundation’s Latest Developments
Earlier this month, the TON Foundation introduced TON Pay, a payments software development kit (SDK) that allows merchants and Telegram Mini App developers to accept cryptocurrency directly within Telegram. This move further solidifies Telegram’s position as a leading platform for crypto adoption and DeFi integration.
With these updates, Telegram is not only simplifying the crypto experience for its users but also positioning itself as a key player in the DeFi and cryptocurrency ecosystems. As the landscape continues to evolve, Telegram’s strategic moves could set a new standard for how users interact with digital assets in the future.
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