MrBeast plans investment round potentially valuing his company at $5 billion.

MrBeast, the most famous YouTube star, is looking to raise a significant amount of money, which could potentially value his company at around $5 billion (£3.9 billion). His real name is Jimmy Donaldson, and he has reportedly been in talks with various wealthy individuals and financial firms about this new round of investment.

The funds raised will likely help him set up a holding company that would support his expanding business ventures, which include a video production company, his chocolate brand Feastables, and a snack business called Lunchly. Last year alone, these businesses made over $400 million in sales. According to sources like Bloomberg, the money could also be used to grow his media and packaged goods sectors. At this point, discussions related to the investment are still in early stages, so it’s unclear who will invest and at what price. This wouldn’t be the first time MrBeast has raised funds; he has previously received investments from firms, including one based in New York called Alpha Wave Global.

If everything goes smoothly, this new funding could allow Donaldson to broaden his business even further. He is already the leading YouTuber globally, with more than 368 million subscribers to his channel.

Originally from Wichita, Kansas, the 26-year-old is best known for his entertaining videos featuring challenges, stunts, and generous giveaways of cash and prizes. One of his most viral videos recreated the sets from the popular Netflix show Squid Game, costing around $3.5 million to produce and featuring 456 contestants competing for a prize of $456,000.

In addition to his YouTube content, he has launched a reality competition show called Beast Games on Amazon, which quickly became the most-watched unscripted show on the platform last month.

Like many creators, Donaldson started small by posting videos from his bedroom. He began his YouTube journey in 2012 and has since developed food brands like Feastables and MrBeast Burgers, which are offered through "ghost kitchens" used by food delivery services in the US, UK, and Australia.

MrBeast reportedly earns tens of millions of dollars annually. He also operates a philanthropic organization, positioning himself as a positive influence on YouTube. He reinvests much of his earnings back into his videos and charitable activities.

Despite his success, he has faced some criticism. He has a history of making homophobic remarks as a teenager and has been accused of being a tough boss to some of his employees. Additionally, there are concerns that some of his videos could be seen as "poverty porn," as people often receive cash or gifts solely for appearing in his content. This issue received significant attention when he aimed to fund cataract surgeries for 1,000 individuals, yet these initiatives have also garnered praise from various charities.

MrBeast’s continuing journey showcases both the highs and lows of fame and the complexities of content creation in today’s world.