Chinese AI chatbot DeepSeek is choosing to focus on research rather than chasing rapid revenue growth, despite a recent surge in sales, the Financial Times reported on Thursday.
Unlike its Silicon Valley counterparts, DeepSeek’s billionaire founder has opted not to capitalize on the sudden jump in demand.
Last month, the company’s revenues reportedly covered its ongoing operational costs for the first time, according to two people familiar with the matter.
DeepSeek was developed as a direct challenger to American AI models, including OpenAI’s ChatGPT, reflecting China’s push to strengthen its position in the global AI race.
However, tensions between Beijing and Washington have cast a shadow over DeepSeek’s ambitions. There are reports that the U.S. is considering restrictions or an outright ban on the Chinese chatbot, citing security concerns over AI technology and its potential use in surveillance or misinformation campaigns.
