SenseTime Eyes Blockchain, Stablecoins After $320M Raise

AI giant SenseTime has announced a major capital raise of approximately HK$2.5 billion ($320 million). Through a placement of 1.667 billion new Class B shares. Infini Capital, a long-term investor, agreed to back the subscription after trading hours on Wednesday.

The company confirmed that 20% of the net proceeds, around HK$500 million. They will allocate the funds to blockchain, stablecoins, RWAs, and embodied intelligent robotics. SenseTime will also seek strategic partnerships to develop related businesses and obtain necessary regulatory qualifications.

AI Meets Blockchain

This move marks a significant pivot in SenseTime’s strategy. Previously, its primary focus has remained on computer vision, generative AI, and model training infrastructure. As digital assets and tokenized economies gain traction, SenseTime is exploring new verticals where AI can integrate with on-chain ecosystems.

The company said it would explore synergies between AI and blockchain. They suggest potential deployments in tokenized assets, AI-driven compliance, and real-time data analysis for digital financial instruments.

The Numbers Behind the Deal

Each new share was issued at HK$1.50, bringing the total subscription value to HK$2.5 billion. The subscription accounts for about 4.5% of the company’s total issued shares. Guotai Junan Securities and CLSA Securities acted as placing agents. The net proceeds, after fees, stand at approximately HK$2.498 billion.

SenseTime confirmed it made the deal under a general mandate. Shareholders and regulators still need to approve the terms.

Not the First Big Raise

This is SenseTime’s second major fundraising in under a year. In December 2024, it placed nearly 1.9 billion shares, raising HK$2.787 billion. That capital was used to enhance its AI cloud infrastructure and support the development of large-scale generative AI models. 

The funds from the current placement will complement that effort, but the new focus on blockchain signals a broader vision. SenseTime now aims to position itself at the intersection of AI and decentralized finance.