OnlyFans, the platform that has revolutionized the way content creators connect with their fans, has made headlines once again. This time, it's all about the jaw-dropping $700 million dividend payout to its founder, Leonid Radvinsky. The Ukrainian-American entrepreneur, aged 43, received this monumental sum as the company gears up for a highly anticipated sale. Financial filings from Fenix International Ltd., the London-based entity managing OnlyFans, revealed this eye-popping payout for the year ending November 30, 2024.
OnlyFans, a hub for creators offering X-rated subscription content, has seen its popularity soar as it fills a niche left by other social media platforms. As of late 2024, the company boasted a cash reserve of $808 million, a testament to its financial prowess.
“OnlyFans' significant growth and profitability can be attributed to the surge in platform users and increased earnings for existing creators," the company noted.
May brought whispers of a potential sale, with the platform reportedly seeking a valuation of $8 billion, according to Reuters. The Financial Times noted that despite employing just 46 people directly, OnlyFans has experienced a 9% revenue increase in 2024, reaching $1.41 billion. Over the same period, it amassed $7.2 billion from subscribers, paying out a generous $5.8 billion to creators.
The site’s allure is undeniable, with creator accounts surging by 13% to a staggering 4.6 million. Creators themselves enjoy a hefty 80% of all payments from fans, while the audience for exclusive content swelled to 377.5 million globally.
Founded in 2016 by Tim Stokely, OnlyFans was later sold to Radvinsky in 2018. The platform has not been without its controversies. From the scandal surrounding sexfluencer Bonnie Blue to the diverse figures like tennis pro Sachia Vickery who juggle careers and content creation, OnlyFans continues to captivate and divide public opinion. Some see it as exploitative, while others view it as a modern financial goldmine. With strict over-18 policies and advanced user verification, OnlyFans remains committed to its unique niche.
The Independent reached out to OnlyFans for further comments on the recent developments, as the world watches to see what the future holds for this groundbreaking platform.