Nvidia chief's exit leaves AI startups facing smaller checks and lower valuations

Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang has stepped down after 33 years, leaving a massive gap in AI startup funding as the company had invested tens of billions annually under his leadership. Founders and venture capitalists now expect smaller checks and lower valuations. Nvidia participated in 105 funding rounds this year, often as the largest investor, backing companies like CoreWeave, Crusoe, and Mistral AI. Interim CEO Colette Kress is seen as more conservative, potentially reducing support for early-stage startups and international markets like Europe. The slowdown may lower valuations and make traditional VCs cautious, though rivals like Google, Amazon, and AMD could partially fill the void. Most agree the broader AI boom will continue despite Huang's departure.