Nvidia probes CEO after spy reports

Nvidia opened an independent investigation on Sunday into allegations regarding its chief executive officer, Jensen Huang. The board announced the move after two major newspapers reported that Huang had been targeted by a foreign intelligence effort. The investigation will be overseen by a committee of independent directors and outside legal counsel.

The company stated in a statement that it prioritizes U.S. national and economic security. Nvidia said these interests are paramount to the company and its shareholders. The board added that it has no current reason to believe national security or company secrets were compromised. The inquiry will examine all available information.

The news follows reports from The New York Times and the Financial Times. These outlets detailed a relationship between Huang and Alice Huang, a Chinese business woman. The reports stated that Alice Huang was recruited to spy for China. The two Huangs are not related. Alice Huang runs a Singapore based company that purchases Nvidia chips.

U.S. intelligence agencies placed Alice Huang under surveillance. The agencies found that she had been recruited by China’s top intelligence agency. Concerns about the relationship rose within the U.S. government. The New York Times reported that these concerns involved Secretary of State Marco Rubio.

Jensen Huang addressed the situation in a memo to employees. The company shared the memo with NBC News. Huang admitted to personal misconduct in the note. He wrote, “I was unfaithful to my wife. My actions hurt her and our children. There is no excuse for what I did.”

The memo also included a message to his family. Huang wrote, “To my wife and family: I love you. I know an apology cannot undo what I have done. I hope our family will heal and that, over time, I can earn back your trust.” He acknowledged that his actions had caused pain to his loved ones.

Huang directed another part of the memo to his colleagues and the board. He stated, “To my colleagues at NVIDIA, including those I have worked alongside for decades, and to our board, partners, and shareholders around the world: you deserve better from me.” He described leading the company as the privilege of his life. He said he is fully committed to Nvidia and will work to earn back their confidence.

Nvidia remains a central figure in the artificial intelligence boom. The company produces the most sought after chips in the world. Its top tier products are mostly restricted from sale to customers in China due to national security fears. Huang serves as a public ambassador for the industry. He frequently appears with leaders like President Donald Trump and King Charles to promote the future of AI.

The Financial Times reported that the U.S. government believed Jensen Huang had a romantic relationship with Alice Huang. In response to that story, Nvidia declined to comment at the time. The company noted that Jensen Huang meets thousands of customer executives every year. A spokesperson told NBC News that the news will not slow the company. The spokesperson said Huang is committed to continuing to lead Nvidia as CEO without interruption.