VCI Global invests in AI startup Marvis to enhance automated business solutions

VCI Global Limited, a diversified holding company based in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, has announced a strategic investment through its AI-focused arm, VC AI Limited, in the innovative AI startup Marvis Inc., headquartered in Delaware. The announcement, made on December 30, 2024, indicates a significant commitment to advancing artificial intelligence technologies, particularly those that automate routine business operations.

The investment agreement, structured as a Simple Agreement for Future Equity (SAFE), allows VC.AI to obtain equity in Marvis during its upcoming financing round, currently valued at US$30 million. As part of its visionary approach, Marvis aims to develop advanced digital clone AI technology, which enables the creation of AI agents that automate repetitive tasks, thereby allowing users to focus on strategic initiatives and ultimately improve productivity.

Masaaki Hatano, the co-CEO and founder of Marvis, highlights the transformative potential of AI agents, stating, “This is just the beginning for Marvis, the AI agents set to transform the world. By 2028, Marvis will empower humanity to break free from both digital and physical tasks, offering unprecedented relief and freedom.” Marvis, which plans to go public on NASDAQ in 2028 with a projected market capitalisation of US$20 billion, aims to raise up to US$5 million in its current seed funding round.

The burgeoning field of AI agents is anticipated to experience substantial growth, with Markets and Markets estimating the global market size will surpass US$55 billion by 2030, reflecting a compound annual growth rate of approximately 45% from 2024 to 2030. This surge is attributed to heightened demand for automation, enhancements in Natural Language Processing (NLP), and the growing need for personalised customer interactions. Marvis is strategically positioned to leverage this growing market by providing a cost-effective alternative to conventional Robotic Process Automation (RPA) solutions.

In addition to its technological capabilities, Marvis has garnered attention from major industry players, with advisors from Google, Intel, IBM, and Techstars showing strong interest in supporting its initiatives. Furthermore, collaborations with significant companies such as Toshiba Tec Malaysia, Hitachi Global, and NTT Data Group are expected to enhance Marvis’ potential for widespread implementation.

Dato’ Victor Hoo, Group Executive Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of VCI Global, articulated the company’s optimism about the future of AI technology, asserting, “We see 2025 as the year of AI agents and are fully committed to capitalising on this dynamic industry. We look forward to investing in innovative AI startups, positioning VCI Global at the forefront of this transformative technology.”

VCI Global Limited operates across several sectors, including capital market consultancy, fintech, real estate, renewable energy, and cybersecurity. With a focus on innovation, VCI Global is carving a niche for itself in the rapidly evolving landscape of AI and robotics in the Asia-Pacific region and beyond.

As AI technologies continue to reshape business practices, the developments surrounding VCI Global and Marvis signal a notable shift towards more automated and strategically focused approaches in various sectors.

Source: Noah Wire Services