Forbes-listed Kalder founder Gökçe Güven arrested in U.S. on fraud charges

Summary:

Gökçe Güven, the founder and chief executive of fintech startup Kalder and a member of Forbes’ 2025 entrepreneur rankings, has been arrested in the United States on charges of investor fraud, visa fraud and identity theft. U.S. prosecutors allege Güven misled investors about Kalder’s financial performance and business partnerships, raising nearly $7 million through false claims.

Multiple federal charges filed in New York

The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of New York said it has filed an indictment against Gökçe Güven, accusing her of securities fraud, wire fraud, visa fraud and aggravated identity theft.

According to prosecutors, Güven knowingly provided false and misleading information to investors and U.S. authorities while serving as the CEO of Kalder, a technology startup she founded and operated primarily in the United States.

Alleged $7 million investor deception

The indictment alleges that Güven raised approximately $7 million by misrepresenting Kalder’s revenues, financial health and commercial partnerships. Prosecutors claim that several of the brand collaborations cited in investor materials either did not exist or were significantly exaggerated.

Authorities said company income and growth metrics were overstated in pitch decks and written disclosures provided to prospective investors.

Visa fraud allegations tied to O-1A application

U.S. prosecutors also allege that Güven used false statements and fabricated documents to obtain an O-1A visa, a special U.S. visa reserved for individuals with “extraordinary ability” in business, science or the arts.

According to the indictment, the visa application included misleading claims about Kalder’s commercial success and allegedly relied on fraudulent reference letters and supporting materials.

Prosecutors warn against startup-related fraud

In a statement, the U.S. Attorney’s Office said it would continue to pursue cases involving fraud committed under the guise of entrepreneurship, stressing that misleading investors and federal authorities would not be tolerated.

If convicted, Güven could face significant prison time, financial penalties and potential deportation.

What is Kalder?

Kalder is a fintech and loyalty-technology startup that positioned itself as a platform enabling brands to create digital rewards, memberships and engagement tools, often linked to blockchain-based or tokenized systems.

Kalder marketed its services to global consumer brands, claiming to help companies build customer loyalty ecosystems and digital communities. Prior to the allegations, the company attracted attention in startup and venture capital circles and contributed to Güven’s inclusion in Forbes entrepreneur rankings for 2025.

Legal process ongoing

Güven was taken into custody in the United States and is expected to appear before a federal court in New York. The case remains under investigation, and prosecutors emphasized that all charges are allegations until proven in court.