Durov argues that Telegram’s ecosystem gives GRAM a competitive advantage as the token rallies during a broader cryptocurrency downturn, while predicting it could eventually rank among the world’s three largest digital assets.Telegram founder Pavel Durov has described Gram (GRAM) as the only cryptocurrency deeply integrated into a major social ecosystem, arguing that its connection to Telegram provides a competitive advantage over other digital assets.In a November 10, 2026, post on X and Telegram, Durov highlighted GRAM’s approximately 8% price increase while Bitcoin, Ethereum and other major cryptocurrencies experienced losses.
He attributed the token’s relative strength to its integration with Telegram’s messaging platform and suggested that investors were underestimating its long-term potential. Durov described GRAM as significantly undervalued and predicted that it could eventually enter CoinMarketCap’s three largest cryptocurrencies by market capitalization. His comments followed Telegram’s expansion of cryptocurrency wallet functionality, with more than 700,000 self-custodial wallets reportedly created within 48 hours. The remarks attracted attention as digital asset markets continued experiencing substantial selling pressure.
GRAM Outperforms Major Cryptocurrencies Amid Market Decline
GRAM traded near $1.14 on November 11, with a market capitalization of approximately $3.26 billion, according to CoinGecko data cited by CryptoPotato. The token recorded an approximately 8% gain during the period highlighted by Durov, outperforming Bitcoin and several leading altcoins. Trading volume increased substantially, reaching approximately $113 million over 24 hours, indicating heightened market activity. However, Durov’s statement that GRAM was the only cryptocurrency rising was not literally accurate. Several smaller digital assets also recorded gains, including Bitway, Lighter and Internet Computer. GRAM remained approximately 86% below its historical peak of $8.25, demonstrating that its recent performance had not reversed its longer-term decline.
The cryptocurrency was previously known as Toncoin (TON), the native asset of The Open Network blockchain. Following a community governance vote in June 2026, the token was renamed Gram, reviving the name originally associated with Telegram’s blockchain initiative. The change took effect on June 15 after receiving 81.22% support in the governance vote. Importantly, the rebranding did not involve creating a new cryptocurrency or requiring existing holders to exchange their tokens.
Telegram Integration Strengthens GRAM’s Adoption Strategy
Telegram’s expanding integration with The Open Network has become central to GRAM’s adoption strategy. The messaging platform supports cryptocurrency wallets, blockchain applications and digital payments, potentially allowing users to interact with digital assets through familiar messaging interfaces. Durov reported that more than 700,000 self-custodial wallets had been created within two days, although independent verification of the figure was unavailable. The integration could lower barriers to cryptocurrency adoption by reducing the need for users to navigate separate exchanges or wallet applications. The Gram name also carries regulatory history. Telegram abandoned its original Gram issuance in 2020 following an SEC enforcement action concerning an unregistered securities offering.
Under that settlement, Telegram agreed to return more than $1.2 billion to investors and pay an $18.5 million civil penalty. The current GRAM represents the renamed native cryptocurrency of The Open Network rather than a revival of the cancelled 2020 token offering. While Durov’s statements reflect confidence in Telegram’s cryptocurrency strategy, his prediction of a top-three market capitalization remains speculative and does not constitute an established valuation outlook.