Taiwan shares close sharply up, led by electronics sector after U.S. rally

Taiwan Semiconductor (TSM) plans to raise wafer prices 3%-6% in 2027, with higher increases for advanced processes. Demand extends to 2030, driven by AI-related components. Rival foundries may follow. TSM shares closed at $446.57, down 1.2%.

Apple has exclusively secured TSMC's 2nm N2 node for its A20 Pro chip, featuring Gate-All-Around transistors. The chip offers 30% better power efficiency and 15% speed boost, enabling advanced AI. TSMC's 2nm technology uses a GAA nanosheet design, reducing electrical leakage. The A20 Pro will be in the iPhone 18 Pro, with high production costs estimated at USD 30,000 per wafer.

Micron confirmed TSMC will manufacture base dies for its next-gen HBM, joining SK Hynix and Samsung in outsourcing. This shift is driven by HBM's evolution toward customer-specific solutions, with TSMC gaining influence. Citi projects 62% HBM demand growth next year, citing robust AI memory demand.

TSMC's stock rose 0.4% in overnight trading after its CFO commented on strong multi-year demand and increased U.S. investment. The company plans to invest $265 billion, up from $165 billion, with $100 billion allocated to Arizona operations. TSMC's Q2 revenue increased 38% to NT$1.27 trillion, and profit rose 77% to NT$706.56 billion, beating estimates. Despite this, shares have declined 18% from their June 30 peak.

TSMC has secured approval for expanding its Longan Park in Taiwan's Hsinchu Science Park, with plans to manufacture chips using sub-1.4-nanometer technology. The expansion, costing NT$95 billion, includes three factories, with the first expected to enter production in 2030. TSMC aims to improve logic density, performance, and power efficiency with its advanced technologies, as it competes with Intel in the semiconductor race.

Taiwan Semiconductor (TSM) plans a $31.4B expansion in Longtan for advanced semiconductor processes. The project includes three new wafer fabrication plants, with the first expected to be operational by 2030. TSMC's stock is currently overvalued by 18.2% according to GF Value™, with a GF Score™ of 98/100. The company has a strong financial strength rating of 9/10 and a P/E ratio of 31.05, higher than its 5-year median of 22.78.