Nvidia has launched an independent investigation into whether its chief executive, Jensen Huang, was targeted by a foreign intelligence operation following reports of his alleged relationship with a Chinese businesswoman suspected of working for Beijing.

The company’s board announced that a committee of independent directors, supported by external legal advisers, would oversee the investigation. Nvidia said it currently had no reason to believe that US national security or company secrets had been compromised.

Huang, in a message to employees, admitted being unfaithful to his wife and apologised to his family, colleagues, and shareholders, accepting full responsibility for his actions. He also reaffirmed his commitment to leading Nvidia and supporting US national security.

The controversy follows reports linking Huang to Alice Huang, a former executive of Singapore-based company Megaspeed. US authorities reportedly investigated the company over suspicions that it helped China gain access to advanced Nvidia chips restricted under US export controls.

US lawmakers have called on Huang to brief Congress about the allegations, citing potential national security concerns.

The investigation comes as Nvidia faces pressure from investors over concerns about the sustainability of the artificial intelligence boom.