Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang faces FBI probe over alleged Chinese spy links, sued by shareholders for fraud

Highlights

US President Donald Trump has confirmed that the FBI is looking into Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang's reported relationship with Chinese spy.

Trump said he had spoken to Huang, who denied knowing that the woman was allegedly a Chinese spy.

Nvidia shareholders filed a proposed class-action lawsuit against Huang and the company.

US President Donald Trump has confirmed that the FBI is looking into Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang's reported relationship with a Chinese businesswoman suspected of spying for Beijing. Trump said he had spoken to Huang, who denied knowing that the woman was allegedly a Chinese spy. The controversy has also led to an internal investigation by Nvidia's board to determine whether Huang was targeted by a foreign intelligence operation. The situation has raised questions about the CEO's position at the world's most valuable chipmaker. 

Trump confirms FBI investigation

Trump said he was surprised by the allegations against Huang, who is considered one of his closest allies in the technology industry. According to Trump, Huang told him that he had no idea the woman was allegedly working for China.

"I know the FBI is looking into it," Trump said, as reported by Reuters. "I think that he'll be in good shape," he added.

Trump had reportedly been briefed about Huang's relationship and claims that the woman was sharing information with the Chinese government. However, the president reportedly chose not to take action.

Nvidia board backs Jensen Huang

Nvidia announced an internal investigation to examine whether Huang had been targeted by a foreign intelligence operation. The company has also expressed confidence in its CEO. "While the Board has no reason to believe that either national security or Nvidia secrets were compromised, the Board's inquiry will examine all available information," the chipmaker said. "Jensen fully supports the review and has committed to cooperating with it. The Board has confidence in Jensen and his leadership team and will provide further updates as appropriate."

Meanwhile, Huang told Nvidia employees that he had been unfaithful to his wife but did not share further details about the relationship. At 63, Huang remains central to Nvidia's business and long-term plans. Several senior executives report directly to him, giving him significant control over the company's operations and direction. 

Shareholders sue Nvidia and Huang

The controversy has also triggered legal action. Nvidia shareholders filed a proposed class-action lawsuit against Huang and the company on Monday, according to the report. They accused them of misleading investors by hiding Huang's alleged links to a suspected Chinese spy.

The issue could also affect US technology policy. As per the report, some lawmakers believe the allegations may increase support for stricter restrictions on China's access to advanced AI chips. While the FBI investigation and Nvidia's internal review are ongoing, the shareholder lawsuit adds another layer of scrutiny for the chipmaker.

Ayushi Jain

Ayushi Jain Ayushi works as Chief Copy Editor at Digit, covering everything from breaking tech news to in-depth smartphone reviews. Prior to Digit, she was part of the editorial team at IANS.

View full profile