US President Donald Trump has expressed support for Nvidia chief executive Jensen Huang amid allegations that a Chinese businesswoman with whom the technology executive had an affair was working for Beijing’s intelligence agency.
Describing Huang as an “amazing guy” and an honourable person, Trump said he believed the billionaire was going through a difficult period, particularly because of the impact the controversy could have on his wife and family.
Speaking to reporters at the White House on Monday, Trump said he had spoken to Huang earlier in the day to check on his well-being.
“I hope there’s no problem. I believe he’s suffering greatly,” Trump said. “More so because of his family, his wife, who he loves, and his family. But he is definitely suffering.”
Trump also said he had asked Huang directly whether he knew that Alice Huang, the Chinese businesswoman at the centre of the controversy, was allegedly a spy.
“He said he had absolutely no idea that the person in question was a spy. And I really believe him,” the US President told reporters.
Trump added that he had known the Nvidia chief for a long time and was confident he would be “in good shape”. He also confirmed that the FBI was looking into the matter.
How the allegations against Jensen Huang emerged
The controversy gathered momentum after reports by The New York Times and the Financial Times alleged that Alice Huang, also known as Huang Le, had been recruited by China’s Ministry of State Security to gather information about Nvidia’s chief and potentially influence the company’s business decisions.
US intelligence officials reportedly suspected that she had shared information with Beijing. The allegations have raised concerns about whether a senior executive at one of the world's most influential technology companies could have been targeted as part of a foreign intelligence operation.
The reports also brought attention to Singapore-based Megaspeed International, where Alice Huang previously held a senior position. The company reportedly purchased more than $4.8 billion worth of Nvidia chips over two years.
US authorities have examined concerns about the possible movement of restricted artificial intelligence processors to China, amid wider efforts by Washington to prevent Beijing from accessing advanced American semiconductor technology.
Nvidia launches independent investigation
Huang acknowledged having an extramarital affair in a message to Nvidia employees on Sunday. He apologised to his wife, family and colleagues but did not identify the woman involved.
Nvidia's board has since launched an independent investigation into reports that its chief executive may have been the target of a foreign intelligence effort. The company said it had no reason to believe that its trade secrets or US national security had been compromised, but that the inquiry would examine all available information.
The company has also maintained that Huang would continue to lead Nvidia while the investigation is under way.
The controversy has drawn scrutiny from lawmakers across party lines, with US intelligence officials briefing senior congressional leaders on the national security implications. Members of Congress have sought further information about whether sensitive company information or advanced chip technology could have been exposed.
China, meanwhile, has rejected the espionage allegations. Its Foreign Ministry described the claims as unsubstantiated and a smear campaign against Beijing.
The developments have also affected Nvidia's market performance. The company's shares fell by more than 4% on Monday after the board announced its investigation, amid concerns about the potential implications for the chipmaker and its business dealings with China.