Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang admits affair with Chinese government agent as board probes ties

Nvidia’s board of directors launched an investigation into the personal relationship between Chief Executive Jensen Huang and Alice Huang on Sunday. Alice Huang is described as an AI executive and an agent of the Chinese government. The move addresses national security concerns that have surfaced in recent news reports regarding the CEO’s private life.

Alongside the board’s announcement, Jensen Huang sent a memo to all employees. The note, signed simply as 'Jensen,' was addressed to 'my colleagues at NVIDIA.' He stated that he owed an apology to his family and staff for being unfaithful to his wife. He admitted that his actions hurt his spouse and their children, and he said there was no excuse for his behavior.

The timeline of the disclosure began with reports of the relationship. Those reports raised questions about how a top American tech leader connected with a foreign government operative. The board acted quickly to establish an independent review process. Huang wrote in the memo that he supports the investigation and will cooperate fully with the process.

Huang addressed his family directly in the document. He wrote that he loves them and knows an apology cannot undo what he has done. He expressed hope that the family will heal and that he can earn back their trust over time. He stated that his family bears no responsibility for his choices and asked colleagues to give them privacy.

The CEO also spoke to his professional stakeholders, including the board, partners, and shareholders. He called leading Nvidia 'the privilege of my life.' He acknowledged that he had fallen short of his responsibility to the company. He said he remains fully committed to Nvidia and intends to work to earn back the confidence of its employees.

He addressed the national security angle by stating his commitment to protecting Nvidia and supporting America's national security. He wrote that he loves his country and his company. He closed the memo by reiterating that he is proud and grateful to be an American.

The board and the CEO released their respective communications on the same day. The investigation is now underway, and Huang has indicated he will participate in the process. The memo serves as his direct address to the workforce regarding the incident.