Jensen Huang, AI Boom Architect, Resigns as Nvidia CEO Amid Security Scrutiny
Leadership changes at Nvidia
Huang’s departure followed growing calls for him to step down. Nvidia’s board had met to consider his future after reports about relationships with a former Megaspeed executive and an Nvidia employee who reports to him.
The company selected Colette Kress, its executive vice president and chief financial officer, to serve as interim CEO. The board also appointed Harvey C. Jones, an entrepreneur and venture investor, as its first chairman. Nvidia shares dropped 10% in premarket trading Thursday.
Reports raise security questions
The New York Times reported that Huang had an affair with Alice Huang, also known as Huang Le, a senior Megaspeed executive suspected of being a Chinese government agent. The two are not related. The Associated Press said it could not independently verify the reports.
The Times previously reported that U.S. intelligence agencies believed Alice Huang was passing information directly to Beijing. President Donald Trump announced Sunday that the FBI was investigating. Details of Huang’s relationship with the former Megaspeed executive remain unclear.
Companies respond to scrutiny
Nvidia said it had “no reason to believe” that national security or its secrets had been compromised, and said its inquiry would review all available information. The company prominently partners with Megaspeed, according to Megaspeed’s website.
Singapore-headquartered Megaspeed International said Thursday it takes compliance with U.S. export control laws “extremely seriously.” In a statement, chairman and CEO Tan Yong Pong, also known as James Tan, said Megaspeed was committed to working transparently with the U.S. government.
Key points
- Jensen Huang resigned as Nvidia CEO Thursday amid scrutiny of reported affairs.
- Colette Kress was named interim CEO, and Harvey C. Jones became the board’s first chairman.
- Nvidia shares fell 10% in premarket trading Thursday.
- Nvidia said it had no reason to believe security or company secrets were compromised.