- TSMC expected to raise full-year sales forecasts amid AI boom.
- Analysts predict a 29% increase in second-quarter net income.
OUR TAKE
TSMC’s expected strong second-quarter results and potential increase in full-year sales forecasts underscore its critical role in the AI revolution. The company’s technological prowess and strategic positioning have made it a cornerstone of AI investment. With demand for AI chips continuing to rise, TSMC is poised for further growth, making it an exciting player to watch in the tech industry.
—Doris Du, BTW reporter
What happened
Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. (TSMC) is set to report its second-quarter earnings next week, and analysts anticipate that the chipmaker will raise its full-year sales forecasts. This comes on the back of a $420 billion equity rally this year, driven by surging demand for artificial intelligence (AI) chips. The world’s largest contract chipmaker is expected to announce a 29% increase in second-quarter net income, according to a Bloomberg survey of analysts.
Why it’s important
TSMC’s success is closely tied to its cutting-edge technology, making it a key player in the AI sector. Just like Nvidia, TSMC has become a top choice for investors looking to capitalise on the AI trend. This has allowed the company to raise prices for its advanced chips, with demand showing no signs of slowing down. Analysts from JPMorgan Chase & Co. to Morgan Stanley expect TSMC to revise its full-year sales guidance upwards, which could lead to another round of valuation expansion.
Jian Shi Cortesi, a portfolio manager at Gam Investment Management, highlighted TSMC’s pivotal role: “Investors realised that TSMC is the ‘pick and shovel’ play on the AI theme. In my view, the AI demand can sustain for at least the next few quarters as the demand for AI chips is currently showing no signs of slowing down.”
TSMC’s ability to maintain and enhance its profit margins will be crucial. The company had previously projected full-year revenue growth in the low-to-mid 20% range. However, following a 40% sales jump in the second quarter, analysts believe this forecast is too conservative. Competitors like Samsung Electronics and major customers such as Broadcom have also reported strong earnings, bolstering TSMC’s position.
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Personal perspective
TSMC’s rise is both exciting and a testament to the transformative power of AI. The company’s ability to innovate and stay ahead in a highly competitive market is admirable. TSMC’s advanced chips are not just technological marvels; they are the backbone of AI development, influencing countless applications that can reshape industries and improve lives. Watching TSMC’s journey, I can’t help but feel a sense of awe and anticipation for what’s to come.
