Nvidia Opens Probe into CEO Jensen Huang Over Alleged Chinese Espionage Links

US chipmaker Nvidia has launched an independent investigation into its chief executive officer, Jensen Huang, following reports that a Chinese businesswoman accused of working for Beijing’s intelligence service developed a close relationship with him.

The company’s board announced the investigation on Sunday, November 8, 2026, after Huang acknowledged having an affair with Alice Huang, a Chinese executive reportedly linked to a Singapore-based data centre company called Megaspeed.

A report by The New York Times alleged that US intelligence officials believed Alice Huang, also known as Huang Le, had been passing information to the Chinese government. She is not related to Jensen Huang, the Taiwanese-born Nvidia co-founder.

Jensen Huang apologises over affair

In a message to Nvidia employees released on Sunday, Jensen Huang admitted that he had been unfaithful to his wife and apologised to his family and colleagues.

“I was unfaithful to my wife,” he said. “My actions hurt her and our children. There is no excuse for what I did. I am deeply sorry.”

The reported relationship has attracted attention because of Huang’s position in the global technology industry and his influence in discussions surrounding artificial intelligence.

As the head of one of the world’s leading AI chip manufacturers, he is also regarded as an influential figure in the technology policy debate in Washington.

Nvidia board launches independent investigation

In a statement, Nvidia said its board had opened an independent inquiry following reports that its founder and chief executive had been targeted by a foreign intelligence operation.

The company said the board had no reason to believe that national security interests or Nvidia’s confidential information had been compromised.

However, it added that the investigation would examine all available information to establish what happened.

The Chinese government has dismissed the allegations in the New York Times report as “groundless speculation”.

Trump comments on Jensen Huang controversy

The controversy has also attracted the attention of US President Donald Trump, who has maintained a close working relationship with Huang on issues surrounding artificial intelligence and America’s competition with China.

According to the New York Times, US intelligence officials briefed Trump about the reported relationship roughly a year ago. The newspaper also reported that the president chose not to act on the information.

Asked on Sunday whether he regretted that decision, Trump said he did not believe he had made a mistake.

“He’s an honorable guy. I think he probably has an excuse for it. You have to hear it,” the president said.

Trump also described Huang as a fine person and praised his work at Nvidia.

The issue could attract further attention as Washington and Beijing continue competing for leadership in artificial intelligence. The report also comes ahead of planned talks between Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping.

Analysts warn of possible impact on Nvidia

Technology analyst Dan Ives of investment bank Yorkville Ives described the investigation as a damaging moment for Huang, predicting that it could trigger congressional inquiries and put pressure on Nvidia’s stock.

He said the controversy could also increase scrutiny of the company’s business dealings involving China, particularly the sale of advanced AI chips.

Also Read: Gospel Singer Toluwanisings to Be Buried Today in Ibadan

Ives suggested that Huang could initially remain in his position, although the board’s findings could influence his future as chief executive.

Meanwhile, George Chen, partner and chair of digital practice at The Asia Group, cautioned against drawing conclusions before the investigation is completed.

He told AFP that it would be premature to consider Huang a threat to US national security without establishing the facts.

Chen said investigators would need to determine whether Huang knew about any alleged intelligence activities and whether confidential or strategically sensitive information had been exposed.

Nvidia’s investigation is expected to examine those questions as the company faces increased attention over its leadership, national security concerns and business interests in China.