Nvidia board opens independent investigation into CEO Jensen Huang

Nvidia's board of directors has opened an independent investigation into CEO Jensen Huang following reports that he had a relationship with a suspected Chinese spy.

Investigation and company response

The board said it would begin an investigation in "light of recent reporting that founder and CEO Jensen Huang has been the target of a foreign intelligence effort". The board stated it has no reason to believe that either national security or Nvidia secrets were compromised, and that its inquiry will examine all available information. Nvidia said the CEO is committed to continuing to lead the company.

Huang's statement

Jensen Huang admitted to having been "unfaithful" to his wife and apologised for hurting her and their children. He said he took "full responsibility" for what he did and had fallen short of his responsibilities to Nvidia's employees, board and shareholders. His statement read: "I was unfaithful to my wife. My actions hurt her and our children. There is no excuse for what I did. I am deeply sorry." He also said he supports the investigation and will cooperate fully, and that he is committed to protecting Nvidia and supporting America's national security.

Background on the reports

US intelligence officials believed that Chinese businesswoman Alice Huang, who had a close relationship with Jensen Huang, was a spy for China's Ministry of State Security, according to a New York Times report. Alice Huang is linked to Singapore-based data centre firm Megaspeed. It remains unclear what information she allegedly passed to Beijing, how valuable it was, or when she is believed to have begun gathering intelligence. Alice Huang did not respond to the paper's request for comment. China has previously rejected allegations of an espionage operation targeting Nvidia's chief, describing the claims as "groundless speculation".

Last week, members of Congress wrote to Jensen Huang asking him to appear before them. Three House Republican committee leaders asked the CEO to appear later in the month to talk about Nvidia's "security protocols against foreign adversary espionage" given his reported relation to Alice Huang.

Why it matters

Nvidia is one of the world's largest companies and is seen as central to making the hardware for emerging AI technologies. The microchip manufacturer is worth some $4.5 trillion, making it one of the most valuable companies ever. Nvidia's AI chips have been a major focus of the rivalry between the US and China, and Washington has previously imposed controls on where its advanced products can be sold.

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Sources

• mirror.co.uk: Nvidia investigates CEO after reports of alleged relationship with Chinese spy - The Mirror
• people.com: Cruise Ship Pianist Who Went Overboard Found 9 Hours Later by 2 Fishermen
• bbc.com: Nvidia launches investigation into CEO's affair with suspected Chinese spy

This article was drafted with AI assistance and checked against the sources above. Company claims are reported as claims. Cover image is AI-generated.