Tencent reportedly considering major stake in AI startup Manus
Chinese tech giant Tencent is in talks to invest in AI startup Manus, aiming to become its largest shareholder. The deal is reportedly valued at around $2 billion.
Chinese technology behemoth Tencent is reportedly considering a significant investment in U.S.-based AI startup Manus, with the goal of becoming the company's largest shareholder. Negotiations are ongoing, with the deal potentially valuing Manus at approximately $2 billion (around 13.6 billion RMB).
Discussions with existing investors Sources indicate that Tencent is currently in discussions with Manus management, as well as potential investors such as Zhenge Capital and Sequoia Capital, regarding the terms of the acquisition. While the specifics are still being finalized, early-stage U.S. investors like Benchmark are not expected to participate in this transaction.
Manus's previous restructuring and controversies Mana, launched in 2025, previously garnered attention. However, its operations became a subject of controversy after the company relocated its headquarters to Singapore and substantially reduced its China-based operations, despite its initial development stemming from Chinese engineers and infrastructure. This distancing from its Chinese roots became notable following its acquisition of U.S. investment.
Past regulatory challenges in China Chinese authorities previously blocked a foreign acquisition attempt of Manus, citing non-compliant practices described as "washing overseas operations." Concurrently, Manus's founders have reportedly been seeking around $1 billion in external funding to buy back the company.