Bessent criticizes Commerce for not blacklisting Megaspeed over Nvidia chip diversion

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has criticized Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick’s department for failing to add Megaspeed International to the U.S. Entity List. The Singapore-based company is suspected of diverting restricted Nvidia AI chips to China, but the Commerce Department has not yet blacklisted it. This has led to tensions between U.S. agencies, as pressure mounts to take action against Megaspeed. The lack of a decision indicates an unresolved interagency dispute, with Megaspeed still under investigation in Singapore.

Key Takeaways

• Market pricing suggests confidence in Howard Lutnick’s position as Commerce Secretary may be decreasing following the criticism from Treasury Secretary Bessent.
• The omission of Megaspeed from the Entity List appears to have intensified scrutiny on Lutnick’s leadership, with markets showing a notable increase in the likelihood of his departure by the end of the year.
• Pricing suggests market participants interpret the ongoing controversy and interagency dispute as consistent with scenarios where Lutnick’s position could be compromised.

What to Watch

Observers will be monitoring any official statements from the White House or President Trump regarding Lutnick’s status, as these could influence market perceptions. Developments in the Megaspeed investigation, particularly any actions by the Commerce Department, may also serve as pivotal indicators. Additionally, any further public criticisms or support from key political figures could affect market expectations surrounding Lutnick’s tenure.