Funding

Finnish quantum computing firm IQM secured $320 million in funding, achieving unicorn status with a valuation exceeding $1 billion. The investment will support technology development, commercial expansion, and a new software platform to broaden quantum computing accessibility. IQM aims to compete with U.S. giants in the burgeoning quantum landscape and expand sales globally, having already sold 15 quantum computers, including its Radiance and Spark models. While an IPO isn’t immediate, IQM focuses on long-term growth and solidifying its position in the next generation of computing.

Anthropic, an AI company founded by ex-OpenAI researchers, secured $13 billion in Series F funding, boosting its valuation to $183 billion. Led by Iconiq, Fidelity, and Lightspeed, the round signifies strong investor confidence. Fueled by its AI assistant, Claude, Anthropic’s revenue run rate exceeded $5 billion in August with over 300,000 business customers. Capital will support safety research, enterprise demand, and global expansion, intensifying its rivalry with OpenAI, valued potentially at $500 billion.

Intel received a $5.7 billion U.S. government investment as part of a White House initiative taking a 10% equity stake. CFO David Zinsner also suggested exploring outside investment for Intel’s foundry business, a key growth area. While Q2 results beat expectations, shares dropped due to foundry capital intensity concerns. Intel cautioned that the deal could face “adverse reactions” from stakeholders, including investors and foreign governments, and increased scrutiny. The White House acknowledges the deal is still being finalized.

Discovery Energy Metals (DEMCF) closed a $1 million non-brokered private placement, issuing 10 million units at $0.10 each, comprising one common share and a transferable warrant. Warrants are exercisable at $0.15 per share for 24 months. Proceeds will fund working capital and property exploration. Issued securities are subject to a four-month statutory hold. The placement creates immediate shareholder dilution, with potential for further dilution upon warrant exercise.

The 2025 World Artificial Intelligence Conference (WAIC) showcased a shift in focus from Large Language Models (LLMs) to embodied intelligence, particularly humanoid robots. The event, touted as the “largest WAIC ever,” featured over 800 exhibitors. While humanoid robots drew huge crowds and high ticket prices, some insiders noted a “playing it safe” approach, prioritizing fundraising over groundbreaking innovation. LLM companies, while still present, appeared more subdued, focusing on practical applications and revenue generation, with many aiming for “¥1 billion in revenue.” Concerns linger about a potential bubble, especially in embodied intelligence.

Faraday Future (FF) has secured $105 million in funding to boost production of its upcoming FX Super One model and advance its AI technology roadmap. The package includes $82 million in new unsecured convertible notes and warrants. Existing investors, including Master Investment Group, and new institutions participated. Terms are more favorable compared to previous rounds. FF’s CEO Jerry Wang stated the financing will enhance the company’s ability to deliver the FX Super One and establish FF as a leader in intelligent electric mobility.

NKGen Biotech (NKGN) secured $2M from a Japanese investor to regain compliance after its parent company’s bankruptcy. Shares move to OTC Expert Market temporarily before uplisting to OTCQB and eventually Nasdaq/NYSE American. The funding supports the development of troculeucel, an NK cell therapy for neurodegenerative diseases moving forward in Phase 2 trials. NKGen also plans to acquire a majority stake in NKMax, consolidating key IP rights across Asia.

RedCloud Holdings plc announced a private placement raising approximately $13.5 million. The company will issue shares and warrants at $1.50 each. The funds will support RedCloud’s AI-powered platform, which simplifies B2B purchasing and inventory management for FMCG products by facilitating data flow between brands, distributors, and retailers.