Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang has publicly admitted to an affair with a suspected Chinese spy, prompting the company's board to launch an independent investigation. The tech giant, valued at around $4.5 trillion, is central to the global AI race and produces some of the most advanced AI chips.
Public Admission and Apology
In a statement, the 63-year-old executive said he takes 'full responsibility' after being 'unfaithful' to his wife, Lori Huang, whom he married in 1985 after meeting at university. Huang, who has children Madison and Spencer, added: 'My actions hurt her and our children. There is no excuse for what I did. I am deeply sorry.'
He acknowledged that an apology 'cannot undo' his actions and said he 'accepts the criticism that comes' with them. 'I hope our family will heal and that, over time, I can earn back your trust,' he said.
Board Investigation Launched
Huang confirmed that Nvidia's Board of Directors has initiated an independent investigation 'regarding the national security concerns raised in news reports.' He said he supports the investigation and will cooperate fully.
The board stated the investigation was initiated 'in light of recent reporting that founder and CEO Jensen Huang has been the target of a foreign intelligence effort.' While the board has no reason to believe that national security or Nvidia secrets were compromised, the inquiry will 'examine all available information.'
Allegations and Reactions
US officials reportedly suspected Chinese businesswoman Alice Huang, with whom Huang had a close relationship, of being a spy for Beijing, according to a New York Times report. The report said President Donald Trump was briefed in 2025 on intelligence alleging she was spying on China's behalf. Her Chinese name is Huang Le, and she is a former executive of Singapore-based data centre firm Megaspeed.
Trump claimed he and Huang have not spoken since the investigation was launched, but told reporters: 'I just know he's a fine person, but you never know what's going on.' He praised Huang as having 'done an amazing job for our country.' Asked whether he should have acted on the intelligence last year, Trump said: 'No, I don't think so. I think he's an honourable guy.'
China has previously branded claims of an espionage effort directed at the Nvidia chief as 'groundless speculation.' Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun said at a daily briefing: 'We have already responded to this. The allegations about Chinese spies are entirely groundless, speculative and intended to smear and malign China.'
