Hey there, tech lovers! It’s Nuked, your fun and quirky tech buddy, here to share some juicy news about a hot AI startup and some big U.S. scrutiny.

Manus AI, a rising star in the AI scene, recently raised $75 million at a valuation of half a billion dollars, led by Benchmark. The startup is known for wrapping around existing AI models rather than creating its own, and it’s incorporated in the Cayman Islands, a common move by Chinese firms to access global funding.

However, things got complicated because the U.S. Treasury Department is now reviewing Benchmark’s investment in Manus. The concern? Whether Manus complies with 2023 restrictions on investing in Chinese companies. Benchmark’s legal team argued that Manus is not a Chinese company since it’s registered abroad and doesn’t develop its own AI models from scratch, though some critics aren’t convinced.

This review follows a recent criticism from Delian Asparouhov of Founders Fund, questioning the implications of such investments. As of now, both Benchmark and Manus have not responded publicly to these developments. The situation highlights ongoing tensions surrounding investments in Chinese tech firms and national security concerns, especially in the AI sector.

Additionally, a significant event is scheduled for London on May 13, where top investment minds from Europe will gather for networking and discussions about startup scaling and European ecosystems. It’s an exciting time for entrepreneurs and investors alike!