Original investors in artificial intelligence startup Manus are planning to buy the company back from Meta at the same $2 billion valuation that Meta paid for the firm, according to The Information. The move follows pressure from Chinese authorities, which ordered the reversal of Meta’s acquisition amid growing scrutiny of foreign ownership of advanced AI technologies.
The proposed buyback would mark a dramatic reversal for one of the most closely watched AI acquisitions of the past year. Meta acquired Singapore-based Manus in late 2025 as part of its effort to strengthen its position in the rapidly evolving market for advanced AI systems and autonomous AI agents. The company viewed Manus as a key asset in its broader artificial intelligence strategy.
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According to the report, early investors including HSG, ZhenFund and Tencent are involved in efforts to repurchase the company. HSG and ZhenFund may also contribute additional funding to support the transaction. Benchmark, another early investor in Manus, is not expected to participate in the buyback effort.
The latest development comes after Chinese regulators increased scrutiny of cross-border investments involving strategically important AI technologies. Beijing previously ordered Meta to unwind its acquisition of Manus, citing national security concerns and restrictions on foreign investment in strategic AI technologies.
In response to regulatory demands, Meta has already begun separating operations from Manus, including halting data-sharing arrangements between the companies. Reports indicate that Manus may ultimately be reorganized as a China-based joint venture, potentially creating a path toward a future public listing in Hong Kong.
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Despite the uncertainty surrounding ownership, Manus has continued to grow rapidly. The Information reported that the company’s annualized revenue run rate has risen sharply since the acquisition, reaching between $400 million and $500 million, up from roughly $100 million earlier in its growth cycle. The strong performance highlights why investors remain eager to regain control of the company despite the regulatory challenges.
The Manus situation underscores the increasingly complex intersection of artificial intelligence, national security and global investment. As governments tighten oversight of advanced AI technologies, companies pursuing cross-border acquisitions may face greater regulatory hurdles, particularly when strategic technologies are involved.