Perplexity AI in talks to raise funds at $18 billion valuation, source says

Perplexity AI in talks to raise funds at $18 billion valuation, source says

  • 21.03.2025 03:18
  • thehindu.com
  • Keywords: dangerous, dangerous

Perplexity AI is in discussions for an $18 billion funding round, doubling its previous valuation of $9 billion. Backed by Jeff Bezos and SoftBank, it aims to compete with Google's Gemini and OpenAI's ChatGPT through feature upgrades.

Alphabet NewsAMZNsentiment_satisfiedSFTBYsentiment_satisfiedMSFTsentiment_dissatisfied

Estimated market influence

Perplexity AI

Positivesentiment_satisfied
Analyst rating: N/A

Perplexity AI is in talks to raise funds at an $18 billion valuation, which would double its previous valuation of $9 billion from November. The company aims to compete with major players like Google's Gemini and Microsoft-backed OpenAI's ChatGPT by upgrading features on its platform.

Amazon

Amazon

Positivesentiment_satisfied
Analyst rating: Strong buy

Amazon.com founder Jeff Bezos is a backer of Perplexity AI, which could positively influence the company's growth and market position as it seeks to raise funds at a high valuation.

SoftBank Group

SoftBank Group

Positivesentiment_satisfied
Analyst rating: Strong buy

Japan's SoftBank Group is a backer of Perplexity AI, contributing to its financial stability and strategic direction as the startup aims to compete with major AI players like Google's Gemini and Microsoft-backed OpenAI's ChatGPT.

Google

Negativesentiment_dissatisfied
Analyst rating: N/A

Perplexity AI is competing directly with Google's Gemini, which could impact Perplexity's market share and growth trajectory in the AI search space.

Microsoft

Microsoft

Negativesentiment_dissatisfied
Analyst rating: Strong buy

Perplexity AI is also competing with Microsoft-backed OpenAI's ChatGPT, which may pose a challenge to its market position and revenue potential as it seeks to establish itself in the AI-driven information retrieval sector.

OpenAI

Negativesentiment_dissatisfied
Analyst rating: N/A

OpenAI has secured significant funding and market presence, particularly with its $6.6 billion funding round in October 2023, which could overshadow Perplexity AI's efforts to gain a foothold in the AI space.

Context

Perplexity AI Fundraise Analysis

  • Valuation Increase: Perplexity AI is in discussions to raise funds at an $18 billion valuation, doubling its previous valuation of $9 billion reported in November 2023.
  • Funding Target: The company aims to raise between $500 million and $1 billion in the current funding round.
  • Backers: Perplexity AI is supported by high-profile investors, including Jeff Bezos, founder of Amazon.com, and Japan's SoftBank Group.
  • Competitive Focus: The startup is enhancing features on its platform to better compete with Google's Gemini and Microsoft-backed OpenAI's ChatGPT.

Market Context

  • OpenAI Valuation: OpenAI recently closed a $6.6 billion funding round, potentially valuing the company at $157 billion, solidifying its position as one of the most valuable private companies globally.
  • Market Trend: The rapid increase in valuations for AI startups reflects the growing demand and competition in the AI space, particularly in generative AI tools like ChatGPT and Gemini.

Competitive Landscape

  • Strategic Upgrades: Perplexity AI's focus on improving its platform underscores the importance of differentiation in a crowded market dominated by major players like Google and OpenAI.
  • Investor Interest: The jump from $9 billion to $18 billion highlights investor confidence in Perplexity's ability to compete with larger tech giants.

Long-Term Implications

  • Regulatory Impact: As AI competition intensifies, regulatory scrutiny may increase, potentially affecting market dynamics and strategic partnerships.
  • Strategic Considerations: The funding will likely be used for further product development, marketing, and potential acquisitions to maintain a competitive edge in the AI search space.