Artificial Intelligence (AI) continues to evolve, with China making its mark through the revolutionary DeepSeek model. Developed in Hangzhou, DeepSeek has risen to prominence, outperforming leading AI systems like ChatGPT, Gemini, and Claude, while capturing global attention.

What is DeepSeek?

DeepSeek is a state-of-the-art AI model created by a Hangzhou-based research lab founded by Liang Wenfeng in 2023. Built on the advanced DeepSeek-V3 model, this open-source AI system gained recognition by surpassing OpenAI’s ChatGPT and becoming a top-rated app on Apple’s App Store in countries like the US, UK, and China.

The latest version, DeepSeek R1, stands out with its cost-efficiency, unlimited free usage, and open-source nature. By offering powerful AI capabilities without hefty price tags, DeepSeek challenges the dominance of Silicon Valley giants.

How Does DeepSeek Differ from OpenAI and Meta?

DeepSeek sets itself apart with its affordability and innovative design:

  • Cost-Efficiency: Unlike competitors that rely on expensive AI chips like Nvidia’s H100 GPUs, DeepSeek uses affordable hardware without compromising performance.
  • Transparency: Its open-source model allows developers to build and customize their AI solutions.
  • Unique Features: DeepSeek articulates reasoning before responding, offering a more transparent interaction compared to OpenAI’s ChatGPT.

Why Is DeepSeek Gaining Attention?

DeepSeek is celebrated for being:

  1. Free and Unlimited: Users can access its powerful features without cost.
  2. Open-Source: Encouraging innovation by providing developers with the freedom to modify and improve the model.
  3. Efficient: It performs exceptionally well with minimal resources, sidestepping US-imposed restrictions on advanced semiconductor exports.

Its rise has caused significant concern in the US, where AI leaders like Nvidia, Microsoft, and Meta face competition from this low-cost alternative.

Impact on US Stocks and the Global AI Market

DeepSeek’s success has had immediate financial implications:

  • Shares of major US AI-related companies, such as Nvidia, Meta, and Microsoft, have dropped.
  • Investors are re-evaluating their strategies as low-cost Chinese models like DeepSeek gain traction.
  • Chipmakers and AI hardware manufacturers may see reduced profits due to the disruption.

Conclusion

DeepSeek’s emergence signals a new era in the AI landscape. Its affordability, open-source design, and innovative approach challenge established tech giants and democratize access to advanced AI tools. As DeepSeek gains momentum, its impact on the global market is undeniable.