From Hedge Funds to AGI Dreams: Liang Wenfeng’s DeepSeek Shakes Silicon Valley
A Hangzhou-based AI lab is making waves globally—and it’s all thanks to Liang Wenfeng, the low-key founder behind DeepSeek. His startup’s ultra-efficient R1 model has outperformed giants like ChatGPT on app charts in the Chinese mainland and the U.S., sparking debates about the future of AI competition.
Who Is Liang Wenfeng?
Graduating from Zhejiang University with an AI degree, Liang pivoted from co-founding AI-driven hedge fund High-Flyer to chasing his ultimate goal: advancing artificial general intelligence (AGI). In 2023, he launched DeepSeek as a passion project, prioritizing long-term research over quick profits. His ‘curiosity-first’ approach? It’s working.
Why Silicon Valley Is Buzzing
DeepSeek’s R1 model slashed training costs by skipping traditional methods, proving innovation doesn’t need Silicon Valley-sized budgets. Critics call it a ‘counterproductive’ blow to U.S. efforts to stifle China’s tech rise. With apps topping charts, even Meta and OpenAI are watching closely.
The Long Game
Liang’s philosophy? ‘Long-termism’. He’s focused on unlocking the secrets of human-like intelligence, even if profits take years. Recently invited to a Beijing symposium with Chinese Premier Li Qiang, Liang’s ideas now shape national tech strategies.
One thing’s clear: In the AI race, DeepSeek—and China—are sprinting ahead.
DeepSeek Shakes Tech World 
