Shang Hai Zheng Quan Bao·2025-11-07 00:42Core Viewpoint - The storage chip industry is entering a rare "super cycle" driven by a combination of surging demand and supply constraints, primarily fueled by advancements in AI technology and the expansion of smart terminal products [2][3][4]. Demand Side Summary - The rapid development of AI technology is a core driver of increased demand for storage chips, with major tech companies like Nvidia and Amazon accounting for 95% of HBM demand [2]. - The launch of new smart terminal products, including smartphones, PCs, and AI glasses, is further stimulating the need for high-capacity and high-performance storage solutions [2][4]. - AI server demand is significantly impacting the storage chip market, with DRAM contract prices expected to soar over 170% year-on-year by Q3 2025, driven by the high memory requirements of AI training [3]. Supply Side Summary - The supply of storage chips is tightening due to production cuts initiated by major manufacturers like Micron, Samsung, and SK Hynix, influenced by weak NAND Flash demand and pricing pressures [2][3]. - The shift in production focus towards high-bandwidth memory (HBM) and DDR5 is leading to a reduction in the supply of traditional memory products like DDR4 [3][4]. Market Outlook - The storage industry is expected to maintain a tight supply-demand balance, with prices likely to continue rising through Q4 2025 due to the ongoing AI boom and the need for data center upgrades [4][5]. - Companies are advised to focus on semiconductor equipment manufacturers that specialize in critical processes like etching and deposition to capitalize on the anticipated growth in storage demand [4].