
DeepSeek: the Chinese AI shaking up the global artificial intelligence market
A technological breakthrough: what is DeepSeek?
DeepSeek is a Chinese startup founded in 2023 with the goal of developing artificial general intelligence (AGI) capable of competing with major Western advancements like OpenAI’s ChatGPT. The flagship model, DeepSeek-R1, launched in January 2025, has gained recognition for its advanced capabilities in reasoning, mathematics, and coding.
Notably, this AI was developed by optimizing the limited hardware resources available in China, showcasing how technical ingenuity can overcome constraints posed by global competition and trade restrictions.
Open source DeepSeek: a bold strategy
Unlike its Western counterparts, DeepSeek has chosen to make its model open source. This decision allows researchers and developers worldwide to access its code, fostering collaborative innovation. However, this approach raises concerns about data security and potential misuse of the technology.
Major economic implications
DeepSeek’s impact extends far beyond the tech sphere. The announcement of its R1 model sent shockwaves through financial markets, particularly among semiconductor companies like Nvidia. Shares of Nvidia plummeted by 18% following DeepSeek’s launch, reflecting investor concerns about the future dynamics of the AI market.
Additionally, the startup challenges the dominance of major U.S. AI companies and highlights China’s ability to innovate despite increasing trade and technological restrictions.
Strategic challenges: innovation and geopolitics
DeepSeek also raises geopolitical concerns. The U.S., traditionally a leader in AI, views this breakthrough as a potential threat to its supremacy. Worries center on DeepSeek’s transparency regarding data and costs, as well as the potential use of these technologies in contentious contexts.
From China’s perspective, this technological success is seen as a lever to strengthen its position in an increasingly competitive global tech race.
Lessons for the future
DeepSeek is a powerful reminder that innovation knows no borders. It demonstrates that with a focus on fundamental research and smart resource management, startups can disrupt established giants.
However, this advancement also prompts reflection on the ethical and regulatory challenges of AI in an increasingly interconnected world. How can we balance innovation and security? What role should governments play in this technological race?
Conclusion
DeepSeek heralds a new era for artificial intelligence, where innovation hubs are diversifying, and global competition is intensifying. If this Chinese startup has managed to shake up markets in such a short time, there is no doubt it will continue to influence discussions about the future of AI. For businesses and decision-makers, the focus must now be on leveraging this momentum while anticipating the challenges it presents.