Former Nvidia ceo's remarks suggest lack of confidence in interim successor

Former NVIDIA CEO Jensen Huang reportedly characterized Collette Kress, the company's CFO who assumed the role of interim CEO, as 'a deer in the headlights' during a presentation earlier this summer, according to the Wall Street Journal and an anonymous source. Huang allegedly stated that Kress was unable to assist him in guiding the company's strategy or decision-making. This commentary surfaced during a discussion concerning NVIDIA's plans to offer billions of dollars in guarantees to data center operators unable to purchase chips upfront. Kress, who has been with NVIDIA for over 13 years, had previously questioned the merits of certain program-focused, credit-based deals involving Huang's son-in-law, Nico Caprez, and sought clarity on valuing guarantees and determining returns. Separately, Kress had previously reduced NVIDIA's commitment for OpenAI's Ohio data center project from a potential $250 billion credit down to $105 billion. Huang resigned last Thursday following reports of two extramarital affairs, including one with VP Kimberly Powell, and amid an ongoing investigation into a potential Chinese espionage plot. NVIDIA is currently seeking a permanent CEO to replace Huang, who held the top position for over 33 years.