AI money keeps flowing as Deepseek plans record raise and Core Automation quadruples valuation in weeks

THE DECODER / 5/9/2026

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Key Points

  • Deepseek is reportedly planning a funding round of up to $7.35 billion, which would be the largest ever for a Chinese AI company.
  • Deepseek V4.1 is expected to launch in June, indicating aggressive product momentum alongside fundraising.
  • Core Automation, founded by former OpenAI researcher Jerry Tworek only six weeks ago, is already pursuing a $4 billion valuation.
  • The two developments together suggest rapid capital inflows and unusually fast valuation growth for newly formed AI startups.

Deepseek is planning a funding round of up to $7.35 billion, the largest ever for a Chinese AI company. Deepseek V4.1 is set to launch in June. Meanwhile, Core Automation, founded by ex-OpenAI researcher Jerry Tworek just six weeks ago, is already targeting a $4 billion valuation.

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