Helium Shortage Could Turn Exxon Into a Quiet Chipmaker Winner

Geopolitical shocks have knocked out roughly a third of global helium supply, driving up prices for ultra-high-purity gas essential to semiconductor manufacturing. ExxonMobil’s Shute Creek gas plant in Wyoming now stands as a major helium supplier (about 20% of global supply) with long-run reserves, giving the company a potential margin tailwind as chipmakers like TSMC, Samsung, and SK Hynix rely on helium. The upgrade in helium pricing could boost Exxon’s cash flow and dividend appeal, making it a safer play than pure helium peers. Investors are cautioned to consider a position on dips (e.g., below about $165) as the shortage unfolds.