Face-Off: The U.S. vs China The Chip Whisperer
13 snips
Jan 20, 2026 
Tripp Mickle, a New York Times technology reporter, offers insights into Jensen Huang's pivotal role in the AI landscape and NVIDIA's strategy amid U.S.-China tensions. He discusses the political dynamics around chip policies, including Trump's reversal allowing chip sales to China, and how Huang's initiatives bolster U.S. interests. Rana Mitter, Harvard Kennedy School professor, highlights the geopolitical ramifications of Taiwan's chip production and China's ambitions in AI, stressing the balance business leaders must maintain amidst rising tensions.
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Humble Diner Origin Story
- NVIDIA began when three engineers decided to build a faster graphics chip at a diner table.
- Jensen Huang financed and steered the startup from that early Denny's conversation.
CEO Influence Shaped US Export Policy
- Jensen Huang personally influenced the Trump administration to reverse export restrictions on NVIDIA chips to China.
- His frequent White House visits and rapport with key advisers shifted policy in NVIDIA's favor.
Export Risks Loom Beyond Commerce
- Critics warned the H200 could help China erode U.S. AI advantages and enable harmful uses.
- National security figures argued the sale risked empowering Chinese military or cyber capabilities.
