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DeepSeek in talks to raise $7 billion from Tencent, CATL and other investors
Chinese AI startup DeepSeek is in discussions to raise approximately $7 billion in its first external funding round, backed by Tencent and CATL, increasing confidence in China's AI sector. The funding could value DeepSeek between $49 billion and $56 billion, with its founder contributing $3 billion and Tencent $1.5 billion.
Key points
- DeepSeek is an AI startup based in China.
- The company seeks to raise around 50 billion yuan ($7 billion) in funding.
- Major investors include Tencent Holdings, which plans to invest 10 billion yuan ($1.5 billion), and CATL, contributing 5 billion yuan ($740 million).
- Founder Liang Wenfeng will contribute 20 billion yuan ($3 billion) of his personal funds.
- The funding could value DeepSeek at $49 billion to $56 billion post-money.
- DeepSeek is also in talks with the National AI Industry Investment Fund, NetEase, and JD.com.
Why it matters
- This aligns with the growing trend of AI investments globally and reflects the increasing valuation of tech startups in China, which is part of the broader 2025 IT trends involving AI.
- The interest in AI has surged post-pandemic, with many companies investing heavily in AI technologies to enhance their products and services.
The potential funding for DeepSeek illustrates the booming confidence in China's AI market, reflecting broader trends in global technology investment and innovation.