Telegram’s founder, Pavel Durov, has announced that the Toncoin token will be rebranded to its original name, Gram, sparking a sharp rally in the asset. The token surged 18.75% to $2.19 within 24 hours of the news, as traders welcomed the restoration of the name first used in TON’s foundational whitepaper. Durov emphasized that the blockchain network will retain the TON designation, creating a clear distinction between the protocol and its native currency.
The rebranding is purely cosmetic and will not require any token swap, according to Durov. User balances, staking positions, and network operations will remain unaffected during the three-week transition period. This move marks a return to the project’s roots, before regulatory challenges forced Telegram to step back from direct involvement. The Gram name was originally associated with Telegram’s ambitious blockchain venture, which faced a legal battle with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission in 2020.
Durov framed the change as part of a broader initiative called ‘Make TON Great Again,’ which includes reducing network fees and rolling out infrastructure upgrades. Telegram has been deepening its integration with TON, adding blockchain-based features to its messaging platform and leveraging its massive user base. The renaming aligns TON with other major networks that use separate names for their chain and currency, simplifying the branding.
The market’s enthusiastic response underscores the significance of Telegram’s renewed commitment to the ecosystem. However, Durov clarified that the rebrand is not a token relaunch and should not be interpreted as a new offering. By restoring the Gram identity, Telegram aims to reconnect with the project’s original vision while maintaining continuity for current holders.