Intel CEO profited from AI startup bids, raising conflict questions.

• Intel CEO Tan Lip-Bu faced conflict of interest concerns for pursuing acquisitions of AI chip start-ups Rivos and SambaNova, where he also held leadership positions.
• Tan served as chairman of Rivos and SambaNova while simultaneously being Intel's CEO, raising questions about personal profiteering.
• Intel's board initially rejected Tan's Rivos acquisition pitch, but he later pushed for partnership talks through a subordinate.
• Meta ultimately acquired Rivos, but Intel's bid reportedly prompted a higher offer, benefiting Tan personally due to his stake in Rivos.
• Intel defended Tan's actions, stating he was "advancing its AI strategy" to compete in the AI chip market against rivals like Nvidia.

Why It Matters: Intel CEO's conflict of interest in AI deals raises serious ethical questions.