The founders of Manus are considering raising about $1 billion from external investors to reverse Meta Platforms’s acquisition of the company, according to a report by Bloomberg News. The development was reported on May 21 (21/05).

The report said Manus co-founders Xiao Hong, Ji Yichao, and Zhang Tao are exploring several options to comply with China’s order to unwind the acquisition.

According to the report, the founders are discussing a funding round that could value Manus at a level similar to the more than $2 billion paid by Meta to acquire the company.

Beijing Orders Meta to Unwind Deal

Meta announced the acquisition of Manus in late December to expand advanced artificial intelligence integration across its platforms.

China later launched a review into whether the transaction violated investment rules. Authorities also barred two Manus co-founders from leaving the country.

Last month, Beijing ordered California-based Meta to unwind the acquisition as China increased scrutiny of U.S. investments in advanced domestic technology companies.

Manus Founders Explore Funding and IPO Plans

The Bloomberg report said the Manus founders may use their own capital to cover any remaining funding gap.

The report also stated that the move could turn Manus into a joint venture with potential investors.

In addition, the company could pursue an initial public offering in Hong Kong.

Reuters said it could not immediately verify the Bloomberg report. Manus also did not immediately respond to Reuters’ request for comment.

Manus Develops AI Agents for Research and Automation

Manus develops general-purpose AI agents designed to operate as digital employees with limited human input.

According to the source article, the AI systems can independently carry out tasks such as research and automation.

PHOTO: RAUL ARIANO/BLOOMBERG

This article was created with AI assistance.

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