Trump Defends Nvidia CEO Huang Amid Spy Allegations, FBI Investigation Underway
SCMP · 2 SOURCESabout 3 hours ago2 MIN
Summary
US President Donald Trump has publicly defended Nvidia chief executive Jensen Huang, saying the chipmaker told him he was unaware a woman at the centre of espionage allegations was a suspected Chinese spy. Trump made the comments at the White House on Monday, stating he believes Huang's account after speaking with him earlier that day. The US chipmaker's board has launched an independent investigation into the matter, while the FBI is also examining the case. Nvidia shares fell to a seven-month low amid the controversy. China has rejected the allegations as unfounded and politically motivated.
Key Points
- Trump said he spoke directly with Huang at the White House on Monday, asking whether he knew the woman was a spy, and Huang denied any knowledge
- Trump stated: "I just know Jensen very well. I just think he's a very honorable man" and expressed confidence in Huang's integrity
- Nvidia's board announced an independent investigation on Sunday into reports that Huang was targeted by a foreign intelligence effort
- Huang acknowledged being unfaithful to his wife in a message to employees, apologized to his family and colleagues, and pledged full cooperation with the investigation
- Nvidia shares hit a seven-month low on Monday following the New York Times report linking Huang to a Chinese businesswoman accused of sharing information with Beijing
- China rejected the allegations, with foreign ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun describing them as unfounded and intended to smear Beijing
- Trump said he does not think he will raise the case with Chinese President Xi Jinping at their expected meeting next week, but suggested Xi might bring it up
- Huang is one of Trump's closest allies in Silicon Valley, with their relationship dating back to at least 2025
Why It Matters
The case highlights the ongoing tensions between Washington and Beijing over technology and intelligence concerns, with a major American semiconductor company at the centre of espionage allegations. As Nvidia seeks to sell advanced chips to the Chinese market, this controversy could impact US-China tech relations and the future of American semiconductor exports .
The case highlights the ongoing tensions between Washington and Beijing over technology and intelligence concerns, with a major American semiconductor company at the centre of espionage allegations. As Nvidia seeks to sell advanced chips to the Chinese market, this controversy could impact US-China tech relations and the future of American semiconductor exports .