BREAKING: Gokce Guven, a 26-year-old fintech founder, has been indicted for allegedly defrauding investors out of $7 million. Prosecutors in New York announced the charges today, marking another scandal for the prestigious Forbes 30 Under 30 list, which has seen several high-profile fraud cases in recent years.
Guven, the CEO of Klader Inc., reportedly used false claims and fabricated financial documents to mislead more than a dozen investors. Her startup, which claimed to help users convert loyalty rewards into revenue, was previously valued at $35 million and boasted clients like Godiva and the International Air Transport Association.
The indictment details that Guven maintained two sets of financial records: one accurate and the other filled with inflated figures. She raised approximately $7 million from investors by presenting misleading information about Klader’s revenue and partnerships.
In addition to securities fraud, Guven is also charged with visa fraud, having allegedly secured her O-1A US visa—designed for individuals of “extraordinary ability”—using similar deceptive tactics. Prosecutors claim she forged support letters from executives, signing their names without consent.
Guven, who was celebrated in 2025 as a leading entrepreneur, had previously discussed the challenges of being an immigrant in America, stating, “As an immigrant you see a future you can build no matter who you are, or where you’re from.” That statement now resonates amid the allegations against her.
US Attorney Jay Clayton has made it clear that his office is committed to stopping fraud in the entrepreneurial space. “Beware of fraud masquerading as entrepreneurship,” he said. Guven faces serious consequences if convicted; securities and wire fraud could lead to 20 years in prison, while visa fraud carries a maximum sentence of 10 years. Additionally, aggravated identity theft could add a mandatory two years to her sentence.
As developments unfold, the case against Guven raises critical questions about the integrity of the Forbes 30 Under 30 list, which has previously included other convicted fraudsters like Sam Bankman-Fried and Elizabeth Holmes. This indictment serves as a stark reminder of the potential pitfalls in the world of startup finance and the importance of transparency.
Stay tuned as this story develops, and watch for further updates on the implications of Guven’s indictment and its impact on the fintech industry.
