Trump backs Nvidia’s Huang amid affair and spy investigation into alleged espionage
Reports link affair to espionage
The Financial Times and other media outlets reported that US intelligence had shared information about Huang’s extramarital relationship with a Chinese woman. Intelligence sources said she had been recruited by China’s Ministry of State Security.
The reports named her as Alice Huang, an executive at Singapore-based Megaspeed. US authorities are investigating the company over suspicions it helped Beijing evade export restrictions and acquire advanced AI chips. The New York Times reported that Megaspeed had purchased Nvidia chips worth billions of dollars over the past two years.
Huang apologizes to family
In an email to Nvidia staff on Sunday, Huang acknowledged being unfaithful to his wife of 40 years. He wrote, “My actions hurt her and our children,” and said there was no excuse for his conduct.
Huang also said he was committed to protecting Nvidia and supporting US national security. US lawmakers have invited him to brief them on the reports.
Company and CEO background
Forbes put Huang’s net worth at $162.2 billion (€145.5 billion) as of Sunday, roughly on par with investor Warren Buffet. Nvidia is valued at $4.5 trillion.
Key points
- Nvidia will investigate reports that Huang was targeted by foreign intelligence efforts.
- Huang apologized to his wife and children for being unfaithful.
- US authorities are investigating Megaspeed over suspected efforts to evade export restrictions.
- Nvidia’s board said Huang would remain CEO during the review.