Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC) announced on October 8 to subscribe to a NT$3.74 billion cash capital increase (approximately US$116 million) for Vanguard International Semiconductor Corporation (VIS), which is counterintuitive. Why would TSMC increase investment in a mature-node semiconductor foundry, when China's mature-node chips are facing an oversupply
Pat Gelsinger, Intel's CEO, maintains composure amid speculation about a potential Qualcomm takeover of Intel. While the media has not obtained any direct response from Gelsinger, his activity on the social platform X (formerly Twitter) has been notable
The European Union's (EU) tariff policy is designed to preserve the advantages of its domestic industry chain, but the high taxes imposed on Chinese auto businesses have motivated major manufacturers, including BYD, to establish local facilities
Since its US launch in February and subsequent rollout to more markets in June, Apple's Vision Pro has received praise and criticism. After personally experiencing it at the Canton Road Apple Store in Hong Kong, my biggest takeaway was that it was a truly "smooth" experience
Rapidus, a Japanese semiconductor startup aiming to mass-produce 2nm chips by 2027, faces significant funding, technology, and market competitiveness challenges
The US Department of Commerce has announced a new initiative to maintain the country's semiconductor industry leadership by leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) to develop sustainable materials and processes. With up to $100 million in anticipated funding, this competition is part of the CHIPS for America program, which seeks to drive innovation in semiconductor manufacturing while addressing environmental challenges
Cultural sensitivity has not always been a strength of Taiwanese businesses, potentially straining Taiwan-Japan relations as Taiwan's semiconductor ventures expand overseas without fully considering local communities' perspectives
Vietnam, as Samsung Electronics' largest smartphone production base, has seen the company invest over KRW30 trillion (US$22.37 billion) locally over the past 17 years, earning the title of "national enterprise of Vietnam." However, concerns have emerged as Samsung lost its leading position in the Vietnamese smartphone market to Chinese competitors in the second quarter, prompting claims of "Vietnam betraying Samsung.
Amid speculation surrounding a potential acquisition of Intel by Qualcomm, reports have surfaced indicating Apollo-managed funds, a key partner in Intel's "Smart Capital" initiative, has expressed interest in increasing its equity investment by US$5 billion
Despite a broader economic stagnation and softening demand across various sectors, investment in AI, especially cloud AI, remains exceptionally high. Concerns are mounting about a potential AI bubble and whether this poses a real crisis or is merely a false issue
The escalating tensions between major powers are reshaping global investment and trade patterns, leading to a surge in companies facing divestment, relocation, and investment shifts. This trend suggests an impending rise in production and trade costs, coupled with intensified competition for localized investments. Nations that previously benefited from global supply chain shifts should remain vigilant, as they may become potential targets in the United States' evolving trade strategies
The Wall Street Journal reported that Qualcomm has approached Intel for a potential takeover, a story later verified by CNBC. While the news initially sparked a 3% rally in Intel's share price, significant doubts remain about the feasibility of such a deal
Many still regard Intel as one of the greatest American companies. However, recent struggles have led to a less flattering label: "too big to fail." The critical question now is whether Intel can see a glimmer of hope amid news of new orders and ongoing efforts to cut costs by US$10 billion, including a significant reduction of 15,000 employees from its global workforce and real-estate exits
