Lepton AI is a server rental startup specializing in Nvidia (NVDA)-powered AI chips. According to The Information, Nvidia is nearing a deal to acquire two-year-old Lepton AI for several hundred million dollars. Lepton raised an $11 million seed round in 2023 from investors, including CRV and Fusion Fund.
However, noted short seller Jim Chanos is sounding alarm bells about Nvidia following reports of this potential acquisition. In a post on X, Chanos wrote, “Trying to buyout your resellers is usually a huge red flag,” suggesting the move could indicate inventory management issues or efforts to avoid receivables provisioning.
