Nvidia launches probe into CEO Jensen Huang over alleged relationship with woman linked to Chinese intelligence

Nvidia, the US-based chipmaker, has opened an internal investigation into its chief executive, billionaire Jensen Huang, after he acknowledged having a personal relationship with a woman who has been accused of working for Chinese intelligence.

The company said on Sunday that the inquiry would be carried out by a panel of independent board members supported by outside legal counsel.

Nvidia's board stated that although it currently sees no indication that national security or company secrets were put at risk, it intends to review all available information as part of the inquiry. The board also expressed continued trust in Huang and his management team, and confirmed he will remain in charge of the company while the investigation proceeds.

The move comes after a report published last month by The New York Times suggested Huang could have been the target of a Chinese espionage operation.

The case emerges against a backdrop of intensifying rivalry between China and the United States over leadership in advanced technology, particularly artificial intelligence.

Nvidia has benefited enormously from the AI boom, with surging demand for its chips and software interfaces pushing the company's valuation into the trillions of dollars. The US has for years tried to limit exports of advanced chip technology to China, citing concerns that it could strengthen Beijing's military and technological capabilities.