Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. (TSM), the world’s leading contract chipmaker, has assured investors that operations will remain unaffected by Super Typhoon Kong-rey. The company has proactively implemented its routine typhoon alert procedures at all its factories and construction sites, ensuring continued production despite the impending storm.
This news comes amidst a period of geopolitical turbulence for Taiwan Semiconductor. In October, Hurricane Helene disrupted production of high-purity quartz at two major mines in North Carolina. Quartz is a critical component in the semiconductor industry, and this disruption has raised concerns about supply chain vulnerabilities.
Furthermore, Taiwan Semiconductor has found itself caught in the crossfire of the ongoing US-China trade war. The company has faced pressure from both sides, with the US government expressing concerns about its close ties with Chinese tech giant Huawei and China retaliating with export restrictions on Taiwanese chips.
These tensions have resulted in Taiwan Semiconductor suspending chip shipments to two developers suspected of having ties to Huawei. China remains a significant market for Taiwan Semiconductor, contributing over 10% of its revenue, although this figure has decreased since Huawei’s export restrictions in 2020.
Adding to the complex geopolitical landscape, Intel Corp (INTC) CEO Pat Gelsinger’s recent comments on Taiwan’s stability have strained the relationship between Intel and Taiwan Semiconductor. Gelsinger’s remarks prompted Taiwan Semiconductor to retract its discounts for Intel’s advanced 3-nanometer chips, a key component in Intel’s manufacturing expansion. As a result, Intel is now required to pay the full price for Taiwan Semiconductor’s chips, potentially impacting their profit margins on future projects.
These geopolitical challenges have not deterred investors, however, with Taiwan Semiconductor’s stock up 92% year-to-date. The company’s resilience in the face of these challenges demonstrates its strength and adaptability in a rapidly evolving global market.
Despite the recent fluctuations, Taiwan Semiconductor remains a crucial player in the global semiconductor industry. As the company continues to navigate geopolitical tensions and supply chain disruptions, its ability to maintain production and deliver innovative solutions will be key to its future success.