American Nvidia CEO admits affair with Chinese spy as probe begins
American technology giant Nvidia has launched an independent investigation into its chief executive, Jensen Huang, following revelations that he had an extramarital relationship with a businesswoman suspected of spying for China.
Huang has admitted being unfaithful to his wife and apologised to his family, colleagues and shareholders as concerns mount over whether sensitive company information could have been compromised.
The investigation follows reports by The New York Times that US intelligence officials identified the woman, Alice Huang, as a suspected Chinese intelligence operative.
Alice Huang, also known as Huang Le, is a former executive of Singapore-based Megaspeed, a major purchaser of Nvidia’s artificial intelligence chips. She is not related to the Nvidia chief executive.
In a statement issued on Sunday, Nvidia said an independent committee of directors, supported by external legal advisers, would investigate allegations that its chief executive had been targeted by foreign intelligence.
The company, however, stressed that it had no evidence suggesting its trade secrets or American national security had been compromised.
“While the Board has no reason to believe that either national security or NVIDIA secrets were compromised, the Board’s inquiry will examine all available information,” it stated.
Addressing employees, Huang acknowledged his infidelity and accepted responsibility for the consequences.
“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,” he said.
He also pledged to cooperate fully with the investigation and work towards restoring public confidence in his leadership.
The controversy has brought renewed attention to Megaspeed, which reportedly purchased approximately $4.8 billion worth of Nvidia chips over two years.
US authorities had previously investigated the Singapore-based company over suspicions that it helped Chinese businesses obtain advanced American chips despite export restrictions.
Megaspeed has denied allegations of circumventing US export controls, while Beijing has rejected accusations of industrial espionage.
The revelations come amid growing technological rivalry between Washington and Beijing, particularly over advanced semiconductors used in artificial intelligence.
US President Donald Trump, reacting to the controversy, described Huang as a fine person and praised his achievements at Nvidia.
Despite the investigation, Nvidia’s board said it retained confidence in Huang’s leadership, confirming that he would continue running the company.