OnlyFans – the subscription-based platform beloved by creators and influencers for its direct fan-to-creator content model – is reportedly considering selling a majority stake to Architect Capital, a well-known finance firm. According to sources close to the negotiations, this deal could value OnlyFans at a whopping $5.5 billion! The breakdown? Around $3.5 billion in equity and $2 billion in debt, with Architect Capital potentially snagging a 60% majority share.
“OnlyFans has seen interest from numerous parties, but now it's exclusively in talks with Architect Capital,” revealed a source familiar with the discussions.
The exclusivity of this deal means OnlyFans is currently off the market for other potential buyers. While the timeline for closing this deal remains a mystery, the two parties seem to be deep in their discussions. TechCrunch has reached out to Architect Capital for a comment on these exciting developments.
This isn't the first time OnlyFans has considered selling a significant stake. Just last year, rumors swirled that Leonid Radvinsky, the billionaire owner, was looking to "cash out." Reports indicated talks with a U.S. investor group led by Forest Road Company, but the outcome remains unknown. The interest in OnlyFans stems from its groundbreaking business model and its controversial yet profitable niche.
Architect Capital, which launched in 2021 as a lender focused on early-stage startups, seems to be a fitting partner in this potential acquisition. OnlyFans, though often linked to adult content, maintains that it is not solely a pornography site. Founded in 2016 by Tim Stokely, who later sold a majority stake to Radvinsky, the platform has weathered various legal storms, including allegations related to inappropriate content.
With the potential backing of Architect Capital, OnlyFans could see a significant transformation. The platform's ability to adapt and innovate will be crucial in maintaining its leading position in the digital content space. As the deal progresses, creators and fans alike are watching closely, eager to see how these changes will impact their beloved platform.