Jensen Huang agrees to testify before US Congress
What's the story
Jensen Huang, the former CEO of NVIDIA, has agreed to testify before US Congress. The decision comes after several senior lawmakers threatened to subpoena him. Huang's testimony is expected by Thanksgiving later this month. The development follows a letter sent by House Republicans Brian Mast, John Moolenaar, and Rick Crawford on November 4, inviting him to appear before their committees.
Testimony details
Huang's testimony expected to be a closed-door briefing
The upcoming testimony is likely to be a closed-door briefing with multiple congressional committees. It will most probably be under oath, transcribed, and video recorded.
Mast had warned Huang that he would have no choice but to subpoena him if he didn't agree voluntarily.
The inquiry mainly focuses on Huang's alleged interactions with a woman believed to be a Chinese spy and NVIDIA's security protocols.
Investigation scope
Inquiry's outcome may impact US-China relations and chip exports
The congressional inquiry will look into what information the woman might have accessed and if Chinese intelligence attempted to influence US policy positions.
This controversy has fueled debates over curbing US chip exports to China, an issue Huang has been a vocal opponent of.
Meanwhile, NVIDIA's interim CEO and CFO, Colette Kress, has assured employees that the company remains focused on its customers, partners, and role in the global AI industry.