Nvidia Corp.’s (NASDAQ:NVDA) leadership shake-up has drawn support from prominent market commentators, including Jim Cramer, Ross Gerber, Daniel Newman and Kevin O’Leary, who weighed in on interim CEO Colette Kress and the company’s next chapter.
Jim Cramer Praises Colette Kress’ Leadership Style
Speaking on CNBC, Cramer described Kress as a tough, "no-nonsense" executive who already plays a central role in Nvidia’s investor communications.
“Colette runs with a steel fist,” Cramer said, adding that "she is absolutely the one you need right now” because Kress commands authority and does not tolerate nonsense.
He also noted that Kress has led Nvidia’s earnings conference calls and has been his primary company contact alongside Jensen Huang for years.
Ross Gerber, Daniel Newman Back Nvidia’s Leadership Bench
Gerber, CEO of Gerber Kawasaki Wealth & Investment Management, welcomed Kress’ promotion, saying she is well-equipped to lead the chipmaker through the transition.
He also pointed to Nvidia’s experienced executive team, arguing that the company has “a deep bench of highly skilled leaders” and "It’s their time to step up."
Futurum Group CEO Newman said Kress has consistently impressed him in their interactions.
He suggested Nvidia’s eventual leadership structure could become more focused on operational execution, comparing it to Apple Inc.’s transition from Steve Jobs to Tim Cook.
“There is no replacing Jensen,” Newman wrote on X.
Kevin O’Leary Wants Nvidia to Look Within
O’Leary also expressed confidence in Kress, arguing that her familiarity with Nvidia’s business, customer deals, manufacturing schedules and chip distribution makes her a strong candidate for the permanent position.
He suggested giving her a few quarters to demonstrate her leadership, adding that the company should consider promoting from within.
Nvidia Begins CEO Search After Jensen Huang’s Exit
On Thursday, Nvidia announced that Huang had resigned as president, CEO and a board member, effective immediately.
Kress, the company’s executive vice president and CFO, will serve as interim CEO while retaining her finance responsibilities until a permanent successor is appointed.
The board has begun searching for a replacement and will consider both internal and external candidates.
Price Action: Nvidia shares fell 4.34% during regular trading Thursday to close at $166.19 and gained 0.99% in after-hours trading, according to Benzinga Pro.
Benzinga Edge Stock Rankings place Nvidia in the 12th percentile for Momentum, while its Growth score ranks in the 98th percentile.
Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.
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