International Expansion

Amid U.S. export restrictions on NVIDIA’s AI chips to China, Chinese startup Manus has launched its open-access general-purpose AI agent globally. Developed by Beijing Butterfly Effect Technology and led by Xiao Hong, Manus uses a tripartite autonomous system (Planner, Executor, Validator) to execute complex workflows across 60+ domains, outperforming rivals on benchmarks. After initial invite-only access caused code resales to surge, the platform now offers cloud-based task processing despite mixed CNBC test results in content generation and multimedia production. Analysts highlight its strategic debut during tech trade tensions, positioning it as a potential disruptor in the global AI market through cognitive automation, bridging conceptualization and execution in human-AI collaboration.

Polar Power (NASDAQ: POLA) reported flat Q1 2025 revenue of $1.7M YoY but achieved a significant turnaround: gross profit reached $320K (18.6% margin) versus a prior $402K loss, and net loss narrowed 41% to $1.2M. Telecom sales dominated (82% of revenue), while aftermarket parts/services contributed 28%. International sales tripled to 18%. Despite improved cash flow (operational burn halved to $584K), liquidity remains pressured with only $68K cash reserves against $9.1M liabilities. Management highlights $50M manufacturing capacity potential if order flow stabilizes, but execution risks persist. The company plans to retrofit remote monitoring tech onto 5,000+ legacy units to drive recurring revenue. (Word count: 99)