Nvidia's board of directors announced on Sunday that it has initiated an independent investigation following media reports that CEO Jensen Huang was the target of a Chinese spy operation.
The company also released a message from Huang in which he admitted to an extramarital relationship with a former executive at Singapore-based chipmaker Megaspeed — identified in reporting as Alice Huang, though Huang did not name her in his note. "I owe my family and all of you an apology," Jensen Huang wrote. "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 added that he had "fallen short" of his responsibilities to the company. "To my colleagues at NVIDIA, including those I have worked alongside for decades, and to our board, partners, and shareholders around the world: you deserve better from me," he wrote.
Allegations and scope of the review
Earlier this year, a memo circulating among U.S. policymakers alleged that Alice Huang had been recruited by China's Ministry of State Security to spy on Nvidia's CEO. In its announcement, Nvidia's board said it currently has "no reason to believe" that national security or company secrets were compromised.
The board said the review will be conducted by independent directors working with outside legal counsel. It also stated that Jensen Huang "fully supports the review and has committed to cooperating with it," and that the board has "confidence in Jensen and his leadership team."
Prior company responses and broader context
In response to earlier reports about the relationship, Nvidia previously described the interactions between the CEO and the former Megaspeed executive as "not unusual," and reiterated that the company does not share classified information with customers.
The issue comes amid an intensifying U.S.–China competition over artificial intelligence, in which chips — particularly those made by Nvidia — are a central strategic asset. The reports have also drawn attention because Jensen Huang appears to have a close relationship with U.S. President Donald Trump, who has been a vocal supporter of the AI industry.
Technology companies more broadly have warned employees about potential espionage tactics, including attempts to obtain information through sexual or romantic relationships.
Further details about the investigation and any outcomes will depend on subsequent disclosures from Nvidia, its CEO, and the board.
