Nvidia Names Interim CEO as It Searches for Huang’s Successor

Nvidia co-founder Jensen Huang resigned as CEO following reports of two alleged extramarital relationships, including one with Nvidia executive Kimberly Powell and another with businesswoman Alice Huang, whom U.S. intelligence officials reportedly suspect of ties to Chinese intelligence; the allegations remain unproven. CFO Colette Kress is serving as interim CEO while the board searches for a permanent successor, and the Financial Times reported that it approached Arm CEO Rene Haas, though his candidacy and any offer are unconfirmed. Nvidia has said it has no reason to believe company secrets or national security were compromised, while China has rejected the espionage claims. The departure has renewed scrutiny of Nvidia’s governance, succession planning and founder-centered structure, and raises questions about the company’s China business and its role in U.S. efforts to compete with China. Nvidia shares fell amid the uncertainty and broader AI-sector concerns; HSBC downgraded the stock to hold, citing leadership uncertainty and potential export restrictions as risks. Huang’s departure also raises questions about the administration’s reliance on him as a technology adviser.