Core Viewpoint - The semiconductor industry is facing significant challenges due to a combination of factors including the end of the tariff-induced inventory buildup, weaker-than-expected recovery in end-user applications such as mobile, networking, and automotive, and continued pressure from the appreciation of the New Taiwan Dollar [2][3]. Group 1: Market Conditions - Major IC design companies are reportedly cutting wafer foundry orders for mature processes by 20% to 30% in Q3 compared to Q2, indicating a significant correction in demand [2][3]. - The automotive market is particularly weak, impacting demand for mature processes, with major chip manufacturers warning of poor market conditions [3][4]. Group 2: Financial Impact - The capacity utilization rate for mature process foundries is expected to drop from around 70% in the first half of the year to approximately 60% or lower in the second half [4]. - UMC and World Advanced are projected to see their gross margins decline, with UMC's gross margin potentially falling to 25% in the second half of the year [3][4]. - Powerchip has reported a net loss of NT$0.8 per share for Q2, marking its seventh consecutive quarter of losses, with continued pressure expected in the second half [3][4]. Group 3: Industry Outlook - The semiconductor industry is primarily supported by AI demand, with TSMC performing well, while other mature process foundries are struggling due to weak consumer and automotive sector demand [4].

Core Viewpoint - The 12nm process node, previously considered mature, is now gaining attention in the semiconductor industry due to its balance of performance, power consumption, and cost, making it a strategic choice for various applications, especially in edge AI and IoT devices [1][3][23] Group 1: Expansion of 12nm Applications - Numerous domestic and international companies are adopting 12nm technology across various sectors, including wearable devices, servers, smartphones, AI, and automotive applications [5][11] - Notable products include Unisoc's W527 platform for wearables, Loongson's 3C6000 server CPU, and various chips for AR/VR and industrial IoT [6][10][11] Group 2: Drivers Behind the Resurgence of 12nm - The shift towards edge computing and AI applications is driving demand for cost-effective solutions that 12nm can provide, as it strikes a balance between performance and cost [12][13] - Geopolitical factors are prompting companies to reassess their manufacturing processes, with 12nm being a safer choice that supports mainstream applications without being at the cutting edge [13][14] - The compatibility of 12nm with advanced packaging technologies allows for efficient system-level integration, making it attractive for modern chip designs [13][14] Group 3: Foundry Focus on 12nm - Major foundries like TSMC, UMC, and Intel are increasingly focusing on 12nm, with TSMC's 12nm FinFET Compact technology being a key offering [16][17] - UMC and Intel's collaboration on 12nm aims to address the growing demand in mobile communications and network infrastructure, highlighting the strategic importance of this node [18][19] - The partnership allows both companies to leverage their strengths, with Intel focusing on manufacturing and UMC on process development, catering to market needs while navigating geopolitical challenges [20][21][22] Group 4: Future Outlook for 12nm - The 12nm node is expected to play a crucial role in the evolution of edge AI, IoT, and automotive electronics, serving as a bridge between chip design and system solutions [23] - As advanced packaging and system-level optimizations continue to develop, 12nm may become increasingly central to the semiconductor ecosystem, supporting a wide range of applications [23]

Core Insights - United Microelectronics Corporation (UMC) has strengthened its position in the global semiconductor landscape, becoming a reliable foundry partner amid the rise of advanced technologies [1] - The company has differentiated itself by focusing on mature and specialty process nodes, successfully navigating geopolitical tensions and supply chain disruptions [2] - UMC's stock has increased by 15.3% year-to-date, despite a disappointing performance in the April quarter, where it reported earnings of 9 cents per share, missing estimates [3][4] Financial Performance - UMC's revenue and earnings miss in the last quarter was attributed to a one-time price adjustment, along with depreciation and high capital expenditures [4] - Zacks estimates a negative earnings growth rate of 8.62% for the current year, but anticipates an 11.32% growth next year [5][7] - The company has outperformed its peers, with a 30.8% increase over the past six months compared to 8.5% growth in its peer group [5] Operational Highlights - UMC's foundries in Taiwan, Singapore, and Japan operated at healthy utilization rates in 2025, driven by demand in automotive electronics and industrial applications [2][7] - The company's strategic alignment and global diversification are increasingly valued in the current market [6]

Investment Rating - The report maintains a positive outlook on the AI computing sector, indicating a sustained high level of prosperity in the industry [2]. Core Insights - The AI sector is experiencing robust growth, with multiple suppliers such as Xinxing, Taiko, and Wistron achieving record monthly revenues. For instance, Xinxing's revenue in June 2025 increased by 55% year-on-year, and further growth is expected in Q3 due to strong demand from Nvidia's GB series [2][6]. - The mature process segment is stabilizing, with companies like UMC and World Advanced reporting revenue growth of 3% and 6% respectively in Q2 2025. UMC anticipates a 5-7% increase in wafer shipments due to rising demand [2][14]. - The memory sector is recovering from production cuts and inventory destocking, with expectations of price increases in the second half of 2025. For example, Nanya Technology's revenue in June reached a near 35-month high [2][15]. - The logic chip segment shows stable demand, with MediaTek reporting an 18% year-on-year revenue increase in Q2 2025, and a strong market position in mobile application processors [2][16]. - Passive components are also benefiting from AI demand, with Yageo achieving record revenue growth of 11% year-on-year in June 2025 [2][18]. Summary by Sections AI Sector - The AI sector is characterized by high growth, with significant revenue increases across various suppliers, particularly in the server management chip and testing equipment segments [2][6][11]. Mature Process - Companies in the mature process segment are seeking differentiated growth strategies, with stable revenue growth reported by UMC and World Advanced [14]. Memory Sector - The memory sector is expected to see price recovery due to seasonal demand and inventory adjustments, with notable revenue increases from major players [15]. Logic Chips - The logic chip market remains stable, with MediaTek leading in market share and expanding into new areas such as AI ASICs and automotive chips [16]. Passive Components - The demand for passive components is driven by AI applications, leading to significant revenue growth for companies like Yageo [18].

Core Insights - Investors in the Electronics - Semiconductors sector should consider United Microelectronics Corporation (UMC) and Infineon Technologies AG (IFNNY) for potential undervalued stock opportunities [1] Valuation Metrics - UMC has a Zacks Rank of 2 (Buy), indicating a stronger earnings outlook compared to IFNNY, which has a Zacks Rank of 3 (Hold) [3] - UMC's forward P/E ratio is 14.53, significantly lower than IFNNY's forward P/E of 28.49, suggesting UMC may be undervalued [5] - UMC's PEG ratio is 1.65, while IFNNY's PEG ratio is 1.93, indicating UMC's expected EPS growth is more favorable [5] - UMC's P/B ratio stands at 1.63, compared to IFNNY's P/B of 3.23, further supporting UMC's valuation advantage [6] - UMC has received a Value grade of A, while IFNNY has a Value grade of C, highlighting UMC's superior valuation metrics [6] Earnings Outlook - UMC is noted for its improving earnings outlook, which enhances its attractiveness as a value investment [7]

Core Viewpoint - United Microelectronics Corporation (UMC) is making significant strides in advanced packaging technology, securing a major contract with Qualcomm and developing its own high-end interposer, which has been validated by Qualcomm, indicating a countdown to mass production [1][2]. Group 1: Advanced Packaging Developments - UMC's collaboration with Qualcomm focuses on advanced packaging for high-performance computing applications, particularly in AI PCs, automotive, and AI server markets, with initial production expected in Q1 2026 [1][2]. - The first batch of interposers with a capacitance of 1500nF/mm² has passed Qualcomm's electrical testing, showcasing UMC's capability in advanced packaging [1][2]. - UMC's advanced packaging technology, including 2.5D and 3D packaging, relies heavily on interposer capacitors, which are crucial for connecting stacked or side-by-side chips [2]. Group 2: Competitive Positioning - UMC's entry into advanced packaging allows it to differentiate itself from competitors in the mature process wafer foundry market, particularly against the backdrop of low-cost competition from the "red supply chain" [2]. - The partnership with Qualcomm not only involves orders but also includes Qualcomm purchasing equipment to be placed in UMC's facilities, indicating a deep and trusting collaboration [2]. Group 3: Process Technology Advancements - UMC is advancing its wafer foundry business by developing high-voltage process technologies, including a 14nm FinFET embedded high-voltage process platform, and is exploring collaboration with Intel to extend its process capabilities from 12nm to 6nm [3][4]. - UMC invested NT$15.6 billion in R&D last year, focusing on process technologies required for 5G communications, AI, IoT, and automotive electronics, with progress in special processes and 3D IC advanced packaging [3]. Group 4: Performance Enhancements - The 12nm FinFET process technology platform offers significant improvements over the 14nm technology, achieving a 10% performance increase and a 20% reduction in power consumption, while also reducing chip area by over 10% [4]. - UMC's advancements in process technology enhance its cost competitiveness and position in the semiconductor market [4].

Core Viewpoint - United Microelectronics Corporation (UMC) is exploring the feasibility of entering advanced chip production, specifically targeting 6nm technology, to enhance its growth potential in a market dominated by TSMC, Samsung, and Intel [1][2]. Group 1: Company Strategy and Developments - UMC is assessing future growth drivers, including the potential production of 6nm chips suitable for advanced connectivity applications and AI accelerators [1]. - The company is considering expanding its collaboration with Intel in 12nm chip production, potentially incorporating 6nm technology into this partnership [1][2]. - UMC's CFO indicated that substantial progress in advanced manufacturing technology will depend on partnerships to alleviate financial burdens [2]. Group 2: Market Position and Competition - UMC is currently the fourth largest chip foundry globally, with a market share of 4.7%, following TSMC, Samsung, and SMIC [3][4]. - As of Q1 2025, UMC's revenue decreased by 5.8%, reflecting competitive pressures from local Chinese manufacturers and the rise of SMIC, which has overtaken UMC to become the third largest foundry [2][3]. - The global foundry market is highly concentrated, with the top five companies accounting for 90.2% of the market share [3]. Group 3: Financial Considerations and Challenges - Entering the 6nm production space may require significant capital investment, estimated at around $5 billion, which poses a challenge for UMC [7]. - UMC's capital expenditure for the current year is projected to be $1.8 billion, significantly lower than SMIC's ongoing expenditure of over $7 billion [7]. - The company is exploring a "light asset" model to share the financial burden of new technology investments with partners [7]. Group 4: Industry Trends and Future Outlook - By 2030, mainland China is expected to lead global semiconductor foundry capacity, potentially holding 30% of the market, which adds competitive pressure on UMC [5]. - The demand for mature semiconductor products is rebounding slower than expected, prompting UMC to seek new growth opportunities [7]. - The transition to advanced chip production is complicated by the need for cutting-edge equipment, such as EUV lithography machines, which are costly and may impact production quality if older technologies are used [8].

[Filing Information](index=1&type=section&id=Filing%20Information) This section provides an overview of the administrative details for the Form 6-K filing by United Microelectronics Corporation [General Filing Details](index=1&type=section&id=General%20Filing%20Details) This section identifies the Form 6-K filing by United Microelectronics Corporation on June 30, 2025 - The filing is a Form 6-K, a report of a foreign issuer, submitted by United Microelectronics Corporation[1](index=1&type=chunk) - The report was filed on June 30, 2025[1](index=1&type=chunk) [Signatures](index=2&type=section&id=SIGNATURES) This section confirms the official authorization and signing of the Form 6-K report by the registrant's CFO - The report was signed on behalf of United Microelectronics Corporation by **Chitung Liu, CFO**[5](index=5&type=chunk) - The signature date is **June 30, 2025**[5](index=5&type=chunk) [Exhibit Index](index=3&type=section&id=EXHIBIT%20INDEX) This section provides a list of exhibits accompanying the Form 6-K filing - Exhibit 99.1 is described as '**6K on 06/30/2025**'[7](index=7&type=chunk)

Summary of Key Points from the Conference Call on Global Semiconductors and Semiconductor Capital Equipment Industry Overview - The focus is on the **Global Semiconductor Capital Equipment** industry, particularly the implications of potential changes in U.S. export controls affecting shipments to China [1][2][3]. Core Insights and Arguments - **Export Control Waivers**: Since October 2022, U.S. semiconductor capital equipment (semicap) companies have faced increasing restrictions on shipments to China. Non-Chinese customers with fabs in China have been receiving waivers, but the U.S. Commerce Department is considering canceling these waivers, which would require licenses for shipments [2][3]. - **Impact on Multinational Companies**: Major multinationals with significant capacity in China include **Samsung**, **SK hynix**, **TSMC**, and **UMC**. For instance, SK hynix has 35% of its DRAM capacity in China, while Samsung has 30% of its NAND capacity there [4][5]. - **WFE Spending**: The total WFE (Wafer Fabrication Equipment) spending by non-Chinese companies in China is projected to be around **$2 billion** in 2024, which is only about **4%** of the total WFE deployed in China and less than **2%** of the global WFE market estimated at **$108 billion** [5][6][33][37]. - **Memory Chip Exposure**: Memory chips are seen as the most exposed segment, with China-based fabs accounting for **10%** of global DRAM and **15%** of NAND capacity. However, case-by-case approvals for licenses may mitigate immediate impacts [6][39]. Additional Important Insights - **Deglobalization Trends**: Japanese semiconductor capital equipment companies are expected to benefit from deglobalization trends, as they can serve both U.S. and Chinese markets. Companies like **Tokyo Electron** and **Kokusai** may gain from increased demand for etching and deposition equipment [7]. - **Investment Implications**: - **AMAT (Applied Materials)**: Rated as Outperform with a target price of **$210.00**, driven by secular WFE growth and capital return strategies [10]. - **LRCX (Lam Research)**: Also rated Outperform with a target of **$95.00**, supported by a potential NAND upgrade cycle [10]. - **Tokyo Electron**: Rated Outperform with a target of **¥33,800**, expected to gain market share due to competitive pricing [11]. - **ASML**: Rated Market-Perform with a target of **€700.00**, reflecting a cautious outlook on growth relative to consensus estimates [14]. - **Domestic Chinese Companies**: Companies like **NAURA**, **AMEC**, and **Piotech** are rated Outperform, benefiting from domestic WFE substitution trends in China [15][16][17]. Conclusion - The semiconductor capital equipment industry is facing significant regulatory changes that could impact multinational companies operating in China. While immediate effects may be limited, the long-term implications of export controls and deglobalization trends will shape the competitive landscape. Investment opportunities exist in both established players and emerging domestic companies in China.

Core Insights - The article compares United Microelectronics Corporation (UMC) and Infineon Technologies AG (IFNNY) to determine which stock is more attractive to value investors [1][3] Valuation Metrics - UMC has a forward P/E ratio of 15.32, while IFNNY has a forward P/E of 26.33 [5] - UMC's PEG ratio is 1.74, compared to IFNNY's PEG ratio of 1.78 [5] - UMC's P/B ratio is 1.72, whereas IFNNY has a P/B of 2.92 [6] Analyst Outlook - UMC currently holds a Zacks Rank of 2 (Buy), indicating a more favorable earnings estimate revision activity compared to IFNNY, which has a Zacks Rank of 3 (Hold) [3][7] - UMC's stronger estimate revision activity and more attractive valuation metrics suggest it is the superior option for value investors at this time [7] Value Grades - UMC has a Value grade of A, while IFNNY has a Value grade of C, reflecting UMC's better valuation metrics [6]