Taiwan is reviewing security advice for senior figures in its artificial intelligence (AI) sector following the resignation of Nvidia's former chief executive, Jensen Huang. Wen-Chieh Liang, deputy minister at Taiwan’s Mainland Affairs Council, confirmed the review, stating that the scandal surrounding Huang had prompted fresh scrutiny of security arrangements for executives in the strategically important sector.
Mr Liang expressed regret over Huang's situation, acknowledging his contributions to Taiwan's AI supply chain and industry over the past five years. However, he questioned reports that Taiwanese authorities were warned about a suspected espionage threat as early as 2024, stating his department was not notified.
The review follows reports of a third alleged extramarital affair involving Huang, who resigned on Thursday after 33 years leading Nvidia. Colette Kress, the finance chief, has been appointed interim chief executive. Huang has acknowledged being unfaithful to his wife regarding a relationship with Chinese businesswoman Alice Huang, whose entry permit to Taiwan was revoked due to suspicions of gathering information for Beijing.
Huang's departure led to a 16 per cent drop in Nvidia's shares at market open, wiping nearly $600bn off its market value. The sell-off also affected Coreweave, whose shares fell by approximately six per cent, and both the Nasdaq and S&P 500 opened lower.