"can someone step up ?if Jensen has to resign or is forced out?"
Nvidia is reportedly considering removing chief executive Jensen Huang following claims that he had a second affair, raising questions about the future leadership of one of the world’s most valuable technology companies.
According to reports by The Wall Street Journal and The New York Times, Mr Huang had a relationship with an executive who reports directly to him.
The allegations come after the entrepreneur admitted to having an affair with a woman alleged to have been a Chinese spy.
Nvidia shares have come under significant pressure amid the controversy, falling by more than 8% in extended trading after Wednesday’s market close to reach $160 (£120).
This marks the company’s lowest level in more than a year and extends a three-day decline that has wiped approximately $600bn (£451bn) from the company’s market value.
A board meeting is reportedly taking place to discuss Mr Huang’s future, with any departure potentially creating a significant leadership vacuum at the top of the chipmaking giant.
The situation is further complicated by the fact that Nvidia does not have a succession plan in place.
Earlier this week, Nvidia confirmed it was investigating claims that its chief executive was “the target of a foreign intelligence effort”, while US President Donald Trump said the FBI was looking into the allegations.
The reported relationships have also raised questions about workplace conduct, particularly given that many companies have policies restricting relationships between managers and employees who report to them.
Nvidia’s own code of conduct instructs employees to “avoid situations where our actions create conflict”, including those involving personal relationships.
Described by some as “the godfather of AI”, Jensen Huang has been instrumental in transforming Nvidia from a chipmaking business into one of the world’s most valuable companies, driven by growing demand for artificial intelligence technology.
His potential removal could therefore present a considerable challenge for the company, given the central role he has played in its growth and the absence of an established succession plan.
Granite Wealth management director Bruce Zaro said Mr Huang “was the one who led the marvellous rise of Nvidia”.
He added: “I guess the question would be, can someone step up ?if Jensen has to resign or is forced out?”
