Chinese AI startup DeepSeek is reportedly in discussions for its first external funding round, aiming for a valuation of approximately $45 billion. The potential investment is expected to be led by a major state-backed semiconductor fund in China, highlighting Beijing's strategic focus on bolstering domestic AI and chip development amid intensifying global competition. The move underscores growing investor interest in China's AI sector, as the country seeks to reduce reliance on foreign technology. If successful, this funding round could position DeepSeek among the world's most valuable AI startups and signal increased collaboration between China's AI developers and state-supported technology initiatives.