DeepSeek Prioritizes AGI Research Over Commercial Growth in Major Funding Round
Chinese artificial intelligence startup DeepSeek is reportedly telling potential investors that its primary focus will remain on breakthrough AI research rather than short-term commercialization, according to a report by Bloomberg citing sources familiar with the discussions.
The company is currently pursuing a new funding round that could push its valuation to approximately $45 billion, highlighting growing investor confidence in China’s expanding AI sector.
DeepSeek Founder Emphasizes AGI and Open-Source Development
Bloomberg reported that DeepSeek founder Liang Wenfeng informed prospective investors that the company intends to continue building open-source AI models while pursuing artificial general intelligence (AGI).
Artificial general intelligence refers to AI systems capable of performing intellectual tasks at a human-like level across a broad range of activities. The pursuit of AGI has become a long-term objective for many leading AI companies worldwide.
DeepSeek’s approach suggests the startup is prioritizing technological advancement and long-term innovation over immediate profit generation.
Funding Round Could Reach $10 Billion
According to reports, DeepSeek is aiming to raise approximately 70 billion yuan, equivalent to around $10 billion. If completed, the deal could become one of the largest first-time fundraising rounds ever secured by a Chinese technology startup.
The potential funding underscores increasing investor interest in companies developing next-generation AI infrastructure and models.
Major Investors Reportedly Considering Participation
Bloomberg indicated that several prominent investors could participate in the financing round. Reported names include the state-backed National Artificial Intelligence Industry Investment Fund, alongside major investment groups such as Tencent, IDG Capital, and Monolith Capital.
However, discussions are reportedly still ongoing, and final investment amounts as well as participating investors may change before any agreement is finalized.
DeepSeek Gained Global Attention After Challenging U.S. AI Leaders
The Hangzhou-based company attracted international attention in 2025 after introducing a low-cost AI model viewed by many as a competitive challenge to leading U.S. artificial intelligence firms, including OpenAI.
Its emergence added pressure to the global AI race, particularly as companies compete to develop more efficient and advanced AI systems at lower costs.
While DeepSeek’s future funding plans remain under negotiation, its continued focus on AGI development indicates the company is positioning itself as a long-term player in the global artificial intelligence industry.
