Manus, a Singapore-based AI startup founded in China that develops generative AI agents, is close to raising US$500 million at a US$4 billion valuation.

The fundraising would be its first since Beijing forced it to unwind a sale to Meta, according to people familiar with the talks.

Terms could still change, and the new investors were not identified.

Existing backers include Tencent, HSG, and ZhenFund.

Meta agreed to buy Manus in December, but Beijing blocked the deal over concerns about sensitive technology transfer.

Manus later said it had resumed independent operations after completing its split from Meta in May.

Manus said it offers an AI agent for product management and research.

The startup has also been described as having moved to Singapore, reflecting its cross-border identity.

This comes as China has tightened control over overseas deals involving AI and talent transfers, increasing scrutiny of foreign acquisitions of sensitive tech companies.

🔗 Source: Bloomberg

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