Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang announced he would not attend U.S. President-elect Donald Trump’s inauguration, choosing instead to celebrate the Lunar New Year with employees and their families. Speaking outside Nvidia’s Taipei event, Huang revealed he hasn’t discussed the Biden administration’s recent AI export control rules with Trump’s team but looks forward to future conversations.
Huang also met with TSMC (2330.TW) chairman C.C. Wei to discuss scaling production of Nvidia’s advanced AI chips, Blackwell. Nvidia’s valuation has soared past $3 trillion, driven by surging chip demand, but new U.S. export restrictions may impact its growth.
The Biden administration’s Jan. 13 rules limit AI chip exports to most countries, excluding close allies like Taiwan, while maintaining restrictions on nations like China. These measures aim to prevent Beijing from advancing its military capabilities. Nvidia has criticized the regulations, arguing they risk undermining U.S. leadership in AI.
Trump, set to assume office on Jan. 20, is expected to align with Biden’s stance on countering China. The new rules, effective in 120 days, leave room for the new administration’s input.
Huang, meanwhile, continues his Asia tour, attending Nvidia events in Shenzhen and Beijing, according to reports. The company did not immediately comment on his travel plans or regulatory concerns.
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