Following a forced $2 billion divestment from Meta, Singapore-based Manus AI is targeting a $4 billion valuation through a new $500 million funding round and a planned Hong Kong public listing.
Meta was forced to unwind a $2 billion acquisition of Manus AI due to Chinese regulatory intervention, representing a significant strategic setback and potential reputational risk in the AI sector.
Manus AI is pursuing an independent IPO and raising $500 million after being divested by Meta, shifting its status from a subsidiary candidate to a standalone public entity with uncertain valuation.
Tencent emerged as the largest outside investor in Manus AI following the failed Meta deal, altering its portfolio exposure to the Chinese AI sector without immediate negative financial impact.
Manus AI is pursuing a $500 million funding round and a potential Hong Kong IPO after being forced to unwind its $2 billion acquisition by Meta Platforms. The move follows a directive from China's National Development and Reform Commission, which blocked the deal due to concerns over the company's Chinese origins and technology control.
The NDRC prohibited the deal citing concerns that Manus, despite being Singapore-incorporated, originated in China, asserting that offshore structures do not exempt companies from Chinese regulatory oversight.
Manus AI is in early-stage discussions to raise $500 million from investors including IDG Capital and CATL, aiming for a $4 billion valuation ahead of a potential Hong Kong listing.