Tech giant Nvidia is officially looking into claims that its founder and CEO Jensen Huang became the target of a foreign intelligence operation. The move comes right after a New York Times report alleged the 63-year-old maintained a close relationship with a Chinese businesswoman who allegedly handed information over to Beijing.
Mr Huang, who initially denied the reports, has now confessed to having an affair. In a heartfelt message sent to his staff, he admitted being unfaithful to his wife and causing pain to his family, stating there is no excuse for his actions.
Board steps in with independent inquiry
Nvidia announced that a special committee made up of independent directors, backed by outside legal counsel, will handle the investigation. The board noted that while it currently sees no sign that national security or company trade secrets were compromised, it will inspect all available details.
A company spokesperson confirmed that Mr Huang plans to continue running the $4.5 trillion firm as chief executive without any break, and the board affirmed he is cooperating fully with the probe.
“I was unfaithful to my wife. My actions hurt her and our children. There is no excuse for what I did.”Jensen Huang
Calls from US lawmakers
The situation has caught serious political attention in Washington. US lawmakers heading three key committees covering China, foreign affairs, and intelligence warned that the claims raise major national security worries over China getting access to sensitive US technology.
Meanwhile, President Trump told reporters he has not discussed the allegations with Mr Huang. The chip executive had previously joined Mr Trump and other business leaders at several gatherings, including a visit to China earlier this year to meet President Xi Jinping.
What happens next
US politicians chairing committees on China, foreign affairs, and intelligence have written to Mr Huang asking him to brief them in a closed-door meeting on 18 November.
