TechCheck Nvidia caught in U.S., China “Chiplomacy” 9/15/25
Sep 15, 2025
Tensions escalate as Chinese regulators accuse Nvidia of breaking antitrust laws tied to its Mellanox acquisition. The discussion highlights the implications for Nvidia's future in China amid rising U.S.-China trade friction. Insights reveal the strategic complexities of tech regulations, geopolitical rivalries, and their impacts on the semiconductor market. The podcast dives into the intricate relationship between chip suppliers and the power struggles that shape modern commerce.
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Antitrust Move Is Geopolitical Leverage
- China's antitrust action against NVIDIA over Mellanox looks like geopolitical leverage, not pure competition enforcement.
- Beijing timed the probe after U.S. export controls and during trade talks to gain negotiating power.
Old Deal Reopened For Negotiation Edge
- Beijing reopened a five-year-old conditional approval to press the U.S. during ongoing Madrid trade talks.
- The timing suggests regulatory action is being used as a negotiation tactic.
Watch Sector Spillover Risks
- Monitor semiconductor stocks for spillover risk when geopolitical probes hit a major player like NVIDIA.
- Expect broader selling pressure when regulators target industry-leading deals amid trade tensions.