Nvidia Investigates CEO Amid Concerns of Foreign Intelligence Involvement

Nvidia declared on Sunday that it has commenced an independent investigation following allegations that CEO Jensen Huang had a significant relationship with a Chinese businesswoman accused of transferring information to Beijing. In a communication to Nvidia employees, Huang acknowledged his infidelity and assumed full responsibility for his actions.

The New York Times previously reported that US authorities are investigating Alice Huang, a former executive at Megaspeed, a Singapore-based company that procures AI chips from Nvidia. Megaspeed is under scrutiny for potentially aiding Beijing in accessing advanced AI chips prohibited for shipment to China.

The NVIDIA Board is undertaking an independent investigation. Recent reports suggest founder and CEO Jensen Huang was targeted by foreign intelligence. A committee of independent directors, with the aid of external counsel, will direct the investigation.

Huang expressed full support for the review and promised his cooperation. Despite the investigation, Nvidia stated that its board currently has no evidence suggesting any compromise of US national security or company secrets.

Huang communicated to employees, “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.” Addressing his colleagues, board members, partners, and shareholders, he stated, “My responsibility is to serve you and be worthy of your trust. I have fallen short of that responsibility. I am fully committed to NVIDIA and will work to earn back your confidence.”

An Nvidia representative confirmed that Huang intends to continue his role as CEO without disruption. Meanwhile, leading Republican lawmakers in the US House of Representatives have requested Huang brief Congress regarding the report this month.

Contributors to the report include Sumedha Mukherjee in Bengaluru and Chris Thomas in Mexico City. Bill Berkrot and Chris Reese edited the report.