Jensen Huang discusses return as Nvidia CEO after ouster

What happened

Jensen Huang, who resigned as Nvidia's CEO last Thursday after being ousted by the board, is now in discussions about returning to lead the company. His departure followed revelations of an affair with Alice Huang, who is under suspicion by US officials for espionage on behalf of China, as well as reports of another affair with an Nvidia executive. Several investors and Silicon Valley allies are advocating for Huang's potential reinstatement, while US officials are urging Nvidia to seek new leadership from outside the company. The board is conducting an inquiry, and Huang is scheduled to testify before Congress.

Key details

• Jensen Huang resigned as Nvidia CEO on Thursday, October 17, 2026.
• Alice Huang, with whom Jensen Huang had an affair, is suspected by US officials of spying for China.
• Nvidia's board is running an internal inquiry led by Wachtell Lipton.
• US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent publicly called for Nvidia to appoint an external CEO.
• Nvidia's interim CEO is Colette Kress, and the company will report earnings on Tuesday.

Why it matters

Nvidia employees, shareholders, and customers face uncertainty about the company's leadership and direction as the board decides whether to reinstate Huang or appoint a new CEO. US government officials are pressuring Nvidia to change its leadership, which could affect the company's relationship with regulators and its ability to do business internationally. The outcome of the board inquiry and congressional testimony may influence Nvidia's management structure and its compliance obligations regarding technology exports.