Unitree Robotics launched an initial public offering (IPO) in Shanghai, raising 6.1 billion yuan ($900 million) by selling 40.45 million new shares at 150.8 yuan each, exceeding its initial target of 4.2 billion yuan [1]. DeepSeek invested approximately 140.8 to 141 million yuan (about $20.8 million) in the IPO and received 933,399 shares, representing 2.31% of the strategic placement stock allocated to investors [1, 2].
The companies announced a collaboration to co-develop AI models and embodied-intelligence technologies. The partnership aims to create advanced AI “brains” that enable humanoid robots to understand new environments and perform physical actions, addressing a core challenge in robotics [1, 2]. DeepSeek and Unitree also agreed to grant each other priority access to robot procurement and AI model services as part of their cooperation [1, 2].
Zheng Hualiang, founder of Leap VC, said Unitree’s IPO would set a valuation anchor and likely a ceiling for companies in the embodied-intelligence sector [1].
Unitree first filed for its IPO in mid-August 2026, pricing shares at 150.8 yuan and targeting the 6.1 billion yuan raise on Shanghai’s Star Market [1]. The successful offering highlights substantial investor interest in robotics and AI innovation in China.
DeepSeek’s investment and the strategic partnership position both firms to advance developments in intelligent humanoid robots. The IPO proceeds are expected to accelerate Unitree’s R&D and market expansion.
The next major step will be Unitree’s public trading debut on the Shanghai Stock Exchange, scheduled shortly after the IPO’s completion yesterday.
