Nvidia’s board of directors has announced an independent investigation following reports that CEO Jensen Huang was targeted by a Chinese espionage operation. In a statement released on Sunday, the company said the review would be conducted by independent directors working with outside legal counsel.
Nvidia also published a message Huang sent to employees, in which he acknowledged having an affair with Alice Huang, a former executive at Singapore-based chipmaker Megaspeed, although he did not mention her by name.
A memo circulated among US policymakers earlier this year alleged that Alice Huang had been recruited by China’s Ministry of State Security to gather information on Jensen Huang.
In his message, Jensen Huang apologised to his family and colleagues:
“I owe my family and all of you an apology. I was unfaithful to my wife. My actions hurt her and our children. There is no excuse for what I did. I am deeply sorry.”
Huang also said he had fallen short of his responsibilities to the company. He added that colleagues he had worked alongside for decades, as well as the board, partners and shareholders, deserved better from him.
The allegations come as competition between the United States and China in artificial intelligence intensifies. Chips, particularly those made by Nvidia, have become a major focus of this rivalry. Huang is also reported to have a close relationship with US President Donald Trump, who has publicly supported the artificial intelligence industry.
In its statement, Nvidia’s board said it had “no reason to believe” that national security or company secrets had been compromised. It added that Huang fully supports the review and has committed to cooperating with the investigation. The board also expressed confidence in Huang and his leadership team.
In response to earlier reports about the relationship between Jensen Huang and Alice Huang, Nvidia had said their interactions were “not unusual” and that the company does not share classified information with customers.
Other companies operating in the artificial intelligence sector have also warned employees to be alert to potential espionage attempts, including approaches involving offers of sex or romance.
