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Nvidia (NVDA, Financials) CEO Jensen Huang's return to Taiwan for the Computex trade show triggered massive public and media attention, with fans crowding events and officials responding to intense coverage.
Revenue and valuation were not discussed in the report, but Nvidia's symbolic market presence loomed large during Huang's interactions with top executives from Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing. Local outlets dubbed the gathering the trillion dollar dinner, referencing the combined valuations of the companies in attendance.
Fans shouted Huang's name, requested autographs, and received fried ice cream outside a Taipei restaurant. Nvidia capitalized on the popularity by launching a pop-up merchandise store featuring Huang-themed memorabilia.
Security teams struggled to control the crowds, while Huang's U.S.-based peers expressed confusion at the celebrity status he commands in Taiwanespecially compared to his lower profile in the United States.
Huang also made a high-profile appearance at the World Masters Games as a guest of honor alongside Olympic boxer Lin Yu-ting and actor Sylvia Chang. Political controversy briefly emerged after Taiwanese Vice President Hsiao Bi-khim's attendance was questioned as opportunistic. Her office denied prior knowledge of Huang's involvement.
Following speculation in local media, Taiwan's transport ministry clarified that the cost to park Huang's private Bombardier jet at Songshan airport for six days was T$95,562 ($3,167). The aircraft, operated by VistaJet, departed Taipei for Honolulu on Saturday.
This article first appeared on GuruFocus.