Z.ai shares surge 8% after releasing new AI model running only on Chinese chips
The Chinese AI company said it had already launched the model globally in stealth mode for a week.
TL;DR
- Z.ai released GLM-5.3-Flash, a new AI model reportedly running entirely on Chinese-made semiconductors.
- The model ranks 10th on the Artificial Analysis Intelligence Index, ahead of DeepSeek V4 Pro Max.
- Z.ai's shares increased by over 8% in trading after the announcement.
- The company stated 100,000 domestic chips were used for online requests of the model, codenamed 'Ox Alpha'.
- CNBC could not independently verify the chip claims, and Z.ai declined to share supplier details.
- The development comes amid U.S. restrictions on chip sales to China and efforts by Chinese firms like Huawei to develop alternatives.
- Analyst Ivan Lam suggests Z.ai is likely using Huawei Ascend chips and notes increasing collaboration in China's hardware and software sectors.
- China is boosting domestic semiconductor and AI capabilities to achieve tech self-sufficiency.
- Rival MiniMax reported a 283% revenue surge but a doubled net loss, with its flagship model ranking 18th.
- Both Z.ai and MiniMax listed in Hong Kong in January, with Z.ai shares rising over 800% and MiniMax over 80% since their IPOs.