Core Insights - Meta Platforms is acquiring Manus, a Singapore-based AI startup known for its advanced AI capabilities, including job candidate screening and stock portfolio analysis [1] - Manus achieved a post-money valuation of $500 million after a $75 million funding round led by Benchmark [2] - Manus has signed up millions of users and surpassed $100 million in annual recurring revenue despite initial concerns over its pricing strategy [3] - Meta is paying $2 billion for Manus, aligning with the startup's valuation goals for its next funding round [4] - Meta plans to integrate Manus's AI agents into its platforms while keeping the company operationally independent [5] Company and Industry Summary - Manus was founded by Chinese entrepreneurs and has raised concerns regarding its ties to China, prompting scrutiny from U.S. lawmakers [7] - Following the acquisition, Meta has stated that Manus will sever ties with Chinese investors and cease operations in China [8]