Samsung Hits 107.4T Won Profit on RAM Shortage [2026]

Samsung Electronics and SK hynix are competing to secure EUV lithography equipment from ASML, with orders between 10 trillion and 20 trillion won each, due to a supply shortage for 2027-2028. SK hynix plans to spend 11.95 trillion won by 2027. Samsung's Pyeongtaek investment includes over 60 trillion won for EUV tools. ASML expects demand to outstrip supply, with price increases starting in 2028. Both companies are advancing EUV technology for advanced DRAM production.

Samsung Electronics will acquire a 10.16% stake in TCL CSOT from Samsung Display, strengthening their strategic cooperation. TCL Technology will retain majority control. The transaction aims to enhance collaboration in display technology, with Samsung Electronics becoming a direct shareholder.

Memory chip makers like Micron, Sandisk, and SK hynix reported 80%+ margins due to AI-driven demand. TrendForce forecasts DRAM and NAND flash price increases. Apple's margins are pressured by memory costs, while Nvidia collaborates with TSMC for custom HBM.

Samsung Electronics and SK Hynix shares fell sharply due to concerns over AI data center regulation and memory demand. Samsung dropped 6.35% to 188,700 won, while SK Hynix declined 10.44% to 1,132,000 won. Brokerages suggest volatility may persist and recommend considering sectors like construction and shipbuilding.

The Philadelphia Semiconductor Index dropped 12.25%, dragging the Nasdaq Composite into correction territory. Nvidia fell 9.26%, losing $447 billion in value, while AMD and Micron each declined around 17%. South Korea's KOSPI plunged over 8%, triggering a trading halt, and Japan's Nikkei 225 fell about 6%. The broader market also suffered, with the S&P 500 and Dow Jones losing 4.36% and 3.44% respectively.

South Korea's KOSPI index fell 6.02% on Friday, triggering a circuit breaker halt, as chip giants Samsung and SK Hynix dropped sharply, driven by global AI stock selloffs and foreign investor exits. The index closed at 5,059.65, extending a 5.28% drop from Thursday. The government held an emergency meeting to address market conditions.