Nvidia’s co-founder and long-time CEO Jensen Huang has resigned after 33 years at the helm, triggering a sharp drop in the company’s stock. Shares fell 13% in early trading, pushing the company’s market value below $4 trillion. Huang stepped down as president, CEO, and board member, with Colette Kress taking over as interim leader. The sudden leadership change has unsettled global markets, highlighting the reliance of investors on Huang’s tenure.

The resignation came after a period of public scrutiny, including allegations of inappropriate relationships with a suspected Chinese intelligence operative. Huang admitted to having secret meetings with the individual, which raised concerns about security and ethical standards. The situation has led to calls for greater oversight in the tech industry, particularly regarding AI development and corporate governance.

Huang’s leadership was marked by rapid innovation and a dominant position in the graphics processing unit market. His departure marks the end of an era for Nvidia, which has become a cornerstone of artificial intelligence and high-performance computing. The transition to Kress, a seasoned executive, signals a shift toward more structured management. The company has confirmed that the resignation is not linked to any legal issues, though the controversy has sparked broader discussions about accountability in tech leadership.