Nvidia runs the AI world, now Jensen Huang’s spy scandal could shake it

Nvidia chief Jensen Huang finds himself entangled in a spy scandal that threatens to disrupt the artificial intelligence industry. Huang, widely recognized as the father of the AI economy, designs the graphics processing units (GPUs) that power the technology, making Nvidia one of the world's most valuable companies. The scandal erupted shortly before Anthropic's anticipated IPO, a crucial test for the industry amid investor caution following the US elections, which saw heightened skepticism towards AI, tech billionaires, and data centers.

Huang's defenders argue he has no malicious intent and is irreplaceable for America's AI leadership, while critics claim he should resign pending the Nvidia board's findings. The scandal could prompt congressional inquiries into chip sales to China, intensifying scrutiny amid the AI race between the US and China.