Nvidia investigating reports CEO Jensen Huang was targeted by Chinese intelligence

Nvidia has announced the launch of an independent investigation following claims that chief executive Jensen Huang was the target of a foreign intelligence effort. The company confirmed on Sunday that a committee of independent directors, supported by outside legal counsel, will supervise the inquiry into the reports.

The board stated that it prioritises United States national and economic security as paramount for shareholders and the firm. While the directors have no current reason to believe that company secrets or national security were compromised, the investigation will review all accessible information.

Reports from The New York Times in late October indicated that Jensen Huang had developed a close relationship with a woman named Alice Huang, who is not related to him. United States intelligence agencies identified her as a Chinese intelligence asset.

Subsequent reporting claimed that Alice Huang, an executive at the Singapore-based firm Megaspeed, was recruited by China's Ministry of State Security to collect intelligence on the chief executive. Megaspeed is known as a major purchaser of Nvidia chips. The Financial Times later suggested that American officials believe Jensen Huang was romantically involved with the alleged spy.

In a memo sent to staff on Sunday, Jensen Huang reportedly acknowledged an affair, according to Bloomberg. Nvidia confirmed that "Jensen fully supports the review and has committed to cooperating with it." The company added that "The Board has confidence in Jensen and his leadership team and will provide further updates as appropriate."