Who is Behind DeepSeek AI and Who is Funding It? This is The Explanation!

Bittime - The world of artificial intelligence (AI) was shocked by the presence of DeepSeek AI, a startup from China which suddenly emerged as a tough competitor to OpenAI. However, who is behind DeepSeek AI and who is funding it? Here's the review.

In less than two years since its founding, DeepSeek has created an AI model that it claims is comparable to ChatGPT. In fact, this can be done on a much smaller budget. 

This success raises the question: who is the figure behind DeepSeek AI and who is funding it? Keep following this article to find out the answer.

Liang Wenfeng, The Figure Behind DeepSeek AI

Source: The Guardian

DeepSeek AI was founded by Liang Wenfeng in May 2023. This figure was not a name that was often heard in the technology world before DeepSeek's success. 

Originally from Guangdong, China, Liang studied at Zhejiang University with a focus on electronic information engineering. 

After graduating, he chose an unusual path by founding a quantitative technology-based investment company, High-Flyer Quantitative Investment Management, in 2015.

Read also: Complete Guide How to Buy DeepSeek AI (DEEPSEEK)

High-Flyer focuses on algorithmic and artificial intelligence-based stock trading. With this approach, the company managed to manage funds amounting to $8 billion (around IDR 124 trillion) before being impacted by China's strict regulations on quantitative trading.

Despite the challenges, Liang's experience in developing AI-based quantitative models became the basis for him founding DeepSeek. 

He has the principle that Chinese AI must not just be a follower of the West, but must be able to create its own innovations. 

“If this doesn't change, China will always be a follower,” Liang said in an interview.

Who is Funding DeepSeek AI?

Source: Yicai Global

DeepSeek's primary funding comes from High-Flyer Quantitative Investment Management. With large funds managed by this hedge fund, DeepSeek does not experience significant financial obstacles in conducting AI research and development. 

In addition, before the United States restricted exports of AI chips, High-Flyer had secured around 10,000 units of Nvidia A100 processors, which are one of the main components in training AI models.

Read also: What is DeepSeek AI: ChatGPT replacement from China, you must know!

Apart from internal sources, DeepSeek is also said to have received support from local investors in China. 

However, unlike many other AI startups that pursue profits, DeepSeek emphasizes that their main focus is research and technology development, not just financial gain.

There is speculation that DeepSeek has more AI chips in stock than publicly announced. 

Nevertheless, their success remains proof that innovation does not always depend on large resources, but rather on the right strategy and execution.

Conclusion

DeepSeek AI is a true example of how a small startup can shake up an industry with an innovative approach. 

With Liang Wenfeng as the founder and High-Flyer as the main funding source, DeepSeek is able to compete with global technology giants in AI development. 

This success shows that despite regulatory limitations and technological obstacles, innovation can still thrive with the right strategy. So, are you interested in this AI platform from China?

FAQ

1. Who is the founder of DeepSeek AI?

DeepSeek AI was founded by Liang Wenfeng in May 2023. He has a background in quantitative investment and artificial intelligence.

2. Where does DeepSeek get its funding?

DeepSeek's primary funding comes from High-Flyer Quantitative Investment Management, a hedge fund founded by Liang Wenfeng.

3. Will DeepSeek become a major competitor to OpenAI in the future?

With rapid development, DeepSeek has the potential to become a major competitor to OpenAI, especially in the Chinese and global markets.

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Reference 

ap news, Upstart Chinese AI company DeepSeek’s founder started out as a low-key hedge fund entrepreneur, accessed January 29, 2025.

The Guardian, Who is behind DeepSeek and how did it achieve its AI ‘Sputnik moment’?, accessed January 29, 2025.

Author: Y