Tesla and X CEO Elon Musk has publicly extended a job offer to Nvidia chief executive Jensen Huang, stating he would consider it "an honor" to hire him. This comes as Nvidia's board reportedly investigates Huang's conduct following allegations of extramarital affairs, prompting uncertainty about his future at the dominant AI chipmaker.
Musk's supportive comments were made on X, responding to a social media appeal that urged him to hire Huang. The exchange quickly gained significant attention online.
Nvidia Board Probes Allegations Against Huang
The development follows a report from the Wall Street Journal, published earlier this week, indicating that Nvidia's board was preparing to consider Huang's removal. The newspaper, citing sources familiar with the matter, stated the board's concerns stem from two alleged extramarital affairs, one of which reportedly involved a woman suspected of being a Chinese spy.
Jensen Huang himself acknowledged marital infidelity in a memo to employees earlier this week, taking "full responsibility" for his actions without detailing specifics. Subsequently, the board initiated an investigation, focusing on whether Huang may have been targeted by a foreign intelligence operation. The New York Times also reported a separate relationship with a company executive.
As news of the investigation broke, Nvidia shares saw a decline of approximately eight percent in after-hours trading, according to Reuters, reflecting investor apprehension.
Prominent Figures Support Huang
Elon Musk is not the only high-profile individual to voice support for Huang. Reports indicate that former U.S. President Donald Trump has also defended the Nvidia CEO, praising him as an "honorable man" who has significantly contributed to the country.
Musk and Huang share both business and political connections. They previously traveled together with Trump on Air Force One for discussions with China's leader. Furthermore, Nvidia is a critical supplier for Musk's various ventures. Fortune reported in 2024 that Tesla significantly increased its purchases of Nvidia's AI training chips, which are central to Musk's ambitious artificial intelligence projects.
Huang's Legacy at Nvidia
Jensen Huang co-founded Nvidia in 1993 and has been instrumental in transforming the company from a graphics chip manufacturer into the leading provider of processors essential for artificial intelligence. Under his leadership, Nvidia has grown into a powerhouse valued at roughly $4 trillion.
The potential departure of Huang would create a significant leadership void at Nvidia, especially as reports suggest there is no formal succession plan currently in place. Musk's public offer adds another layer to the ongoing public discourse surrounding Huang's situation as the board's investigation continues.