In some regions, the semiconductor shortage persists, yet the market as a whole continues to decline. Memory market unit prices have particularly suffered, with oversupply causing a drop that has adversely impacted Samsung Electronics’ profitability. TSMC, while posting quarterly sales growth, is anticipated to report a lower Q1 2023 revenue compared to Q4 2022. Market conditions and strategic product shipment delays present formidable challenges for Intel. This analysis examines the current situations of these three leading semiconductor companies and their future prospects.
Samsung, a diversified electronics manufacturer, produces an array of products, including consumer devices, communication equipment, semiconductors, displays, and automotive equipment. The company’s most lucrative division, the DS division (semiconductors), has experienced a sharp drop in operating profit. The deterioration of the DRAM/NAND flash memory market is the primary cause of this downturn, with concerns that Q1 and Q2 2023 could further underperform Q4 2022. The DS division’s performance, which includes foundry services, significantly impacts the company’s overall results.
Intel’s performance has been on a downward trajectory since early 2022. Despite posting a profit in Q1 2022, the company has reported losses for three consecutive quarters. Intel’s revenue is primarily derived from the Client Computing division (PCs) and the Data Center and AI division (servers/data centers). However, sluggish market conditions and delays in launching strategic products have undermined Intel’s performance. The server-targeted product “Sapphire Rapids” faced multiple delays, prompting some customers to switch to competitors like AMD. Intel’s losses are projected to continue.
In contrast, TSMC has consistently achieved growth in sales and profits, boasting a 62% gross profit margin and a 52% operating profit margin for Q4 2022. As a foundry business, TSMC possesses a unique advantage over vertically integrated manufacturers such as Samsung and Intel. TSMC leads the industry in state-of-the-art processes, particularly in extreme ultraviolet (EUV) technology. However, demand for all applications remains weak, and TSMC’s Q1 2023 sales are expected to fall below Q4 2022 levels.
These three major semiconductor companies invest substantially in their businesses, collectively purchasing approximately half of the world’s semiconductor manufacturing equipment. Although Samsung and Intel confront challenges, they maintain their status as key players in the industry. However, TSMC’s cutting-edge process performance has never been more preeminent. Despite its reputation for advanced technology, TSMC’s older-generation processes are, in fact, generating higher profits.
As the significance of semiconductors escalates in global industrial policies, countries such as the US, Japan, and Europe are vying to attract TSMC facilities. TSMC’s strengths extend beyond cutting-edge technology, making them the most appealing option for nations looking to strengthen their semiconductor industries. Successfully attracting TSMC could prove to be a pivotal step for the future of the semiconductor sector in these countries.
