The US Department of Justice (DOJ) has reportedly stepped up its antitrust investigation into Nvidia, according to Bloomberg.
Now, the DOJ has issued subpoenas to gather evidence that the AI chip giant could be engaging in business practices that enable it to monopolize the market.
The investigation addresses concerns that Nvidia could be preventing competition by making it difficult for customers to adopt rival products.
Nvidia is under the antitrust microscope
Bloomberg cites unnamed sources familiar with the matter who claim that the DOJ, which previously sent out questionnaires, is now sending legally binding requests for information.
Moreover, the DOJ also has its eyes on Nvidia’s acquisition of RunAI, an AI computing management software company. Concerns are raised that the merger could further inhibit competition.
Nvidia’s success has been largely thanks to the rapid adoption of artificial intelligence – its powerful chips have proven instrumental in setting up and maintaining high-performance AI datacenters. The company currently has a market cap of $2.02 trillion, after peaking at more than $3 trillion earlier this year and temporarily becoming the world’s most valuable company.
While companies like Intel and AMD have introduced their own products, Nvidia’s early and strong entry to the market positioned it well for future growth.
The dominating chipmaker isn’t only facing scrutiny in the US – French antitrust regulators have also launched an investigation as part of a broader look into the cloud computing market, and the EU is reportedly examining Nvidia’s business practices.
An Nvidia spokesperson told TechRadar Pro in an email:
“NVIDIA wins on merit, as reflected in our benchmark results and value to customers, and customers can choose whatever solution is best for them. We have inquired with the US Department of Justice and have not been subpoenaed. Nonetheless, we are happy to answer any questions regulators may have about our business.”
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