Chinese artificial intelligence startup DeepSeek is reportedly looking to raise fresh funds just weeks after completing a major $7 billion funding round, highlighting the company’s rapid expansion plans in the highly competitive AI race.
The Hangzhou-based AI firm has started early discussions with potential investors for another fundraising round that could value the company at around $71 billion before the investment, according to reports. This comes soon after DeepSeek’s first external funding round, which valued the company at about $52 billion.
DeepSeek became a global name after its V3 and R1 AI models attracted attention for delivering strong performance while using fewer computing resources compared with some rival systems. The company’s progress challenged the belief that only Silicon Valley firms could lead advanced AI development.
The new funds are expected to support DeepSeek’s growing technology needs, including expanding computing capacity, building infrastructure and strengthening research efforts. Like other leading AI companies, DeepSeek faces rising costs as demand for powerful chips, data centres and skilled researchers continues to increase.
Alongside fundraising plans, reports suggest DeepSeek is also preparing for a possible initial public offering (IPO) as early as this year. The company is reportedly exploring a listing route that could help it secure more capital while maintaining its focus on long-term AI research.
DeepSeek is also working towards reducing its dependence on external chip suppliers by developing its own AI processors. The move reflects a broader push by Chinese technology companies to build more self-reliant AI ecosystems amid global competition.
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