BREAKING: Gokce Guven, a 26-year-old fintech entrepreneur, has been indicted for allegedly defrauding investors out of $7 million, according to prosecutors in New York. Guven, founder and CEO of Klader Inc., was charged on February 2, 2026, for using false claims and fabricated documents to mislead investors.
This indictment comes as a shocking development for the tech community, particularly given Guven’s recent recognition on the prestigious Forbes 30 Under 30 list in 2025. Her company, which turned loyalty rewards into revenue, was valued at $35 million and boasted high-profile clients like Godiva and the International Air Transport Association.
Authorities report that Guven presented false statements and misleading claims about Klader’s financial health to secure investments. The indictment alleges that she maintained two sets of financial records—one accurate and one inflated—to deceive over a dozen investors. Prosecutors noted that Guven’s actions mirror those of other disgraced figures in the tech industry, including Sam Bankman-Fried and Elizabeth Holmes.
Additionally, Guven is accused of securing an O-1A visa, which is designated for individuals of “extraordinary ability,” by providing false supporting documents. She allegedly forged endorsements from business executives, signing their names without consent. The seriousness of these allegations cannot be understated, as securities and wire fraud could lead to sentences of up to 20 years, while visa fraud carries a potential 10-year sentence. Moreover, aggravated identity theft could add a mandatory two-year sentence.
US Attorney Jay Clayton, overseeing the case, vowed to aggressively pursue fraudsters like Guven. He stated,
“As alleged, Göknç Guven built her seed round on fake revenue, inflated brand partnerships, and fabricated documents.”
Clayton emphasized the importance of vigilance against fraud masquerading as entrepreneurship.
Guven’s indictment follows her arrest on November 27, 2025, raising eyebrows in a sector already marred by scandal. She had previously shared her journey as an immigrant entrepreneur with Forbes, claiming,
“As an immigrant, you see a future you can build no matter who you are, or where you’re from.”
The implications of this case extend beyond Guven, as it further tarnishes the reputation of the Forbes 30 Under 30 list, which has seen several recipients like Bankman-Fried and Charlie Javice face legal repercussions for fraudulent activities. The community is left grappling with the fallout as investors and innovators alike call for greater transparency and accountability in the startup ecosystem.
As this story develops, the tech community watches closely for updates. The legal proceedings against Guven could set a precedent for how fraud cases in the fintech sector are handled moving forward. Stay tuned for more urgent updates on this developing story.
