In a surprising turn of events, Chinese AI startup DeepSeek has firmly denied reports of seeking outside funding, putting an end to weeks of speculation that gripped the tech industry. The company, known for its low-cost, high-performance AI models that have shaken global markets, announced today that rumors of potential investments from major players like Alibaba and Chinese state funds were unfounded, reaffirming its commitment to remaining self-funded under its parent company, High-Flyer Capital Management.
The buzz began earlier this month when The Information reported that DeepSeek was in talks with Alibaba, China Investment Corp, and the National Social Security Fund for external financing. The news sent ripples through the tech world, with analysts predicting a potential shift for the Hangzhou-based firm as it grapples with surging demand for its chatbot app and the need for more AI chips and servers. However, in a statement released this morning, DeepSeek’s founder, Liang Wenfeng, dismissed the reports as “rumors without basis,” emphasizing the company’s focus on maintaining independence and prioritizing research over commercial pressures.
“We’ve built DeepSeek on a foundation of innovation and self-sufficiency,” Liang said in the statement. “Our goal remains to advance AI responsibly, and we’re not looking to dilute that vision with external funding at this time.” The denial comes as a shock to investors who saw DeepSeek’s potential partnership with tech giants as a natural step toward scaling its operations globally, especially amid heightened geopolitical tensions over AI dominance.
The decision reflects DeepSeek’s cautious approach, especially given concerns in the U.S. and other countries about data privacy and national security tied to Chinese AI firms. Posts on X today echoed mixed reactions, with some praising the company’s resolve to stay independent, while others questioned whether rejecting funding might limit its growth in a fiercely competitive field. For now, DeepSeek’s team of young, brilliant engineers continues to work quietly in their Hangzhou lab, determined to keep their focus on cutting-edge research without external influence. The tech world watches closely, wondering what’s next for this AI trailblazer.
I’m David Paul, a news writer at DeepSeek Insider, where I cover the latest developments in artificial intelligence, large language models (LLMs), and emerging AI tools in the market. With a keen interest in these cutting-edge technologies, I deliver insightful and timely updates to keep our audience informed and engaged.