Intelligence Memo Alleges Espionage Plot Targeting Nvidia CEO
A memo circulated earlier this year claimed that technology executive Alice Huang was recruited by China's Ministry of State Security to spy on Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang, according to multiple media reports.
Origins of the Report
The New York Times, which had previously reported that Nvidia's chief executive was a target of Chinese intelligence, was the first to publish details of the memo, which was reportedly based on U.S. intelligence. The Financial Times subsequently reported that the memo also alleged Jensen Huang had a romantic relationship with Alice Huang, an executive at Singapore-based company Megaspeed.
Nvidia's Response
An Nvidia spokesperson told the NYT that Jensen Huang's interactions with Alice Huang were "not unusual," and that the company does not share classified information with its customers. The spokesperson further stated that Nvidia sells "the first, best and most of our technology in America."
Separate Probe Into New Matrix
A separate NYT report examined New Matrix, a Chinese company authorized by the U.S. Commerce Department to purchase advanced Nvidia chips. At the office address listed by New Matrix, however, reporters found only "a hollow gray shell," raising concerns that the entity could serve as a front for a blacklisted private equity firm.
Broader Context
The allegations surface amid heightened scrutiny of advanced AI chip flows between the U.S. and China, as Washington continues to tighten export controls on cutting-edge semiconductors while investigating whether authorized buyers are serving as proxies for restricted entities.
via TechCrunch AI