Nvidia co-founder Jensen Huang resigns amid espionage and affair scandal
The chipmaker's board announced the immediate departure of the CEO following reports of extramarital affairs and links to a suspected Chinese spy.
Nvidia co-founder Jensen Huang resigned as chief executive and board member on Thursday, November 12, 2026, according to The Hindu. The resignation follows revelations regarding two extramarital affairs, including a relationship with Alice Huang, a former executive at Megaspeed whom US authorities concluded was a Chinese intelligence asset.
The company's board stated that Huang has stepped down from his roles as president, chief executive, and board member, effective immediately. Chief Financial Officer Colette Kress will serve as interim CEO while maintaining her finance role as the board considers internal and external candidates for a permanent replacement.
The news caused Nvidia shares to plunge 10 per cent in premarket trading on Thursday. Reports indicated Huang had an affair with an Nvidia employee, vice president of healthcare Kimberly Powell, who reports to him, according to The Tribune.
US President Donald Trump described the situation as a "horrible thing" and "so sad to see happen" during an interview with Salem News Channel. Trump, who recently presented Huang with the National Medal of Science, also suggested on Truth Social that Apple Executive Chairman Tim Cook should succeed him.
The controversy has raised concerns regarding whether China accessed advanced Nvidia chips despite US export restrictions. Megaspeed stated on November 12 that it takes its obligation to comply with US export control laws seriously.
