New Delhi, Nov. 13 -- Nvidia, the chipmaker at the centre of the global artificial intelligence boom, faces a crucial leadership transition following the sudden resignation of co-founder and chief executive Jensen Huang. With chief financial officer Colette Kress stepping in as interim CEO, investors will be watching whether the company can maintain its technological leadership and growth momentum without the man who led it for 33 years.

Huang, 63, resigned on Thursday following revelations of two extramarital affairs, including one with a woman accused of spying for China. He also relinquished his board seat. Nvidia did not provide a reason for his departure.

Kress, who joined Nvidia in 2013 after nearly 25 years at companies including...