Nvidia board backs Jensen Huang as intelligence inquiry begins

Nvidia’s board has backed chief executive Jensen Huang while an independent inquiry examines reports that he was the target of a foreign intelligence effort. Huang, who has led the chipmaker for more than three decades, has pledged to cooperate.

The board said on 8 November that it had no reason to believe US national security or Nvidia’s secrets had been compromised. It expressed confidence in Huang and his leadership team, but said the inquiry would examine all available information. Its announcement did not report any findings.

The BBC has linked the inquiry to reports that Huang had a relationship with a businesswoman it describes as a suspected Chinese spy. In a message to employees published by Axios, Huang said he had been unfaithful to his wife and apologised to his family. The message did not name another person.

“I support the investigation and will cooperate fully,” Huang told staff. A committee of independent directors, assisted by external legal advisers, will oversee the review.

Nvidia has become a major supplier of chips used in artificial intelligence, and US export controls have sought to restrict China’s access to its advanced chips. A company spokesperson said Huang was committed to continuing as chief executive without interruption.