Trump says FBI looking into allegations involving Nvidia chief

Trump told reporters at the White House on 9 November: “I know the FBI is looking into it in terms of something else.” He did not specify what the bureau was examining or when its work began. The FBI declined to comment to the BBC.

The president said he had spoken to Huang that day and asked whether he knew the woman was a spy. Trump said Huang had replied that he had no idea, adding: “I really believe him.”

The New York Times reported that US intelligence officials believe businesswoman Alice Huang was gathering information for Beijing. The BBC identified her as a former managing director of Megaspeed, a Singaporean company that has dealt with Nvidia.

China’s foreign ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun called the espionage allegation unsubstantiated and said it was aimed at smearing China.

In a message to Nvidia employees on 8 November, Jensen Huang apologised for being unfaithful to his wife. He did not name the other person and said he would cooperate fully with the board’s investigation.

Nvidia’s board said a committee of independent directors, assisted by outside lawyers, would oversee the inquiry. It said it had no reason to believe US national security or Nvidia secrets had been compromised and expressed confidence in Huang. The inquiry has not yet produced a finding.

Nvidia’s advanced chips power many artificial intelligence systems, and their sale to China has been subject to US export controls. The company’s shares fell by more than 4% in trading on Monday.

The BBC reported that chairs of congressional committees have requested a closed-door briefing from Huang next week about Nvidia’s security protocols and his interactions with Alice Huang. It is unclear whether he will attend.