ET Net News Agency reported on the 13th that NVIDIA founder Jensen Huang was exposed in multiple extramarital affairs involving senior clients and subordinates, sparking serious concerns over corporate governance and national security. Under pressure from the board, Huang announced his resignation from the positions of CEO and director. NVIDIA's stock plunged more than 14% during Thursday's trading and closed 4% lower, dragging down the Nasdaq. Declines in tech and internet stocks pulled the Hang Seng Index to open at 23,871, breaking below the 24,000 level, down 136 points or 0.6%. Board turnover amounted to HK$3.909 billion. The Hang Seng China Enterprises Index stood at 8,010, down 46 points or 0.6%. The Hang Seng Tech Index was at 3,918, down 13 points or 0.3%.

    Intensifying AI competition between China and the U.S. has driven investor interest in domestic chip self-reliance. SMIC (00981) rose 2.6% after its earnings release, opening at HK$50; Hua Hong Semiconductor (01347) gained 2.8% to HK$79.15.

    J&T Express (01519) led declines among blue chips, opening 3.47% lower; Lao Pu Gold (06181) fell 3.41%.

    Tech and internet stocks declined collectively: Alibaba (09988) opened 0.48% lower, Tencent (00700) down 1.45%, Alibaba (09888) down 0.7%, Meituan (03690) down 1.25%, and Alibaba (01810) down 0.8%. (ey)