Global automakers are preparing for potential production disruptions due to a semiconductor chip shortage involving Dutch supplier Nexperia, which is linked to geopolitical tensions between the U.S. and China. Companies have established 'war rooms' to manage the crisis, which is exacerbated by Dutch government actions and export restrictions, threatening vehicle production worldwide.
Nintendo plans to combat scalpers for the upcoming Switch 2 by producing an abundance of consoles, ensuring they remain in stock and eliminating resale opportunities. This strategy is feasible now that the semiconductor shortage, which previously hindered production, has been resolved. Nintendo's president, Shuntaro Furukawa, assured shareholders that component shortages will not impact the new console's production, with the Switch 2 expected to be revealed by March 2025.
Super Micro Computer (SMCI) has experienced a surge in demand for its AI server and storage systems, leading to a remarkable 182% increase in its stock price. However, the company is now facing a semiconductor shortage, a challenge prevalent in the AI industry. Despite this hurdle, SMCI anticipates significant revenue growth, with expectations to double to $14.5 billion by June, reflecting the rapid expansion of the data center market.
AMD has released its mid-tier RX 7600 GPU at a recommended retail price of $269, $30 cheaper than Nvidia's RTX 4060, announced only last week. The RX 7600 uses the chip shop's latest RDNA 3 graphics architecture and is aimed at 1080p gamers. AMD claims the card delivers roughly 29 percent higher performance than its predecessor, but the comparison to Nvidia's 8GB 3060 is questionable. The release comes after more than two years of soaring GPU prices fueled by demand from cryptominers and the semiconductor shortage.
Stellantis, the parent company of Jeep and Chrysler, reported a 7% increase in consolidated shipments of almost 1.5 million units in Q1 2023, thanks to improvements in semiconductor supplies. Net revenues also rose 14% to $52 billion, with increases in each region. The company confirmed its full-year guidance, predicting a double-digit adjusted operating income margin and positive free cash flow. Stellantis is preparing to launch nine new EVs globally this year, with EV sales up 22% for the quarter compared to the same period in 2022.
Bosch is set to acquire the assets of US chipmaker TSI Semiconductors to expand its semiconductor business with silicon carbide chips. The German engineering and technology giant will invest $1.5bn over the next few years to upgrade TSI Semiconductors’ manufacturing facilities in Roseville, California. The first chips will be produced on 200-millimeter wafers based on silicon carbide starting in 2026. SiCs have been a hot commodity among automakers, as they offer greater range and more efficient recharging for EVs. Bosch expects an average of 25 of its chips will be integrated in every new vehicle by 2025.