Xin Lang Cai Jing·2025-12-26 12:27Core Viewpoint - Major tech companies, including Apple, Microsoft, Google, and Meta, are sending executives to South Korea to secure storage chip supplies amid ongoing shortages and rising prices, highlighting the competitive landscape for AI data center resources [1][9]. Group 1: Supply Chain Dynamics - The supply of LPDDR and HBM storage chips is currently dominated by SK Hynix, Samsung Electronics, and Micron, with their HBM capacity fully booked through 2026, making it difficult to meet the high demand from clients [4][12]. - Google currently sources 60% of its HBM from Samsung, but due to unexpected demand for TPUs, it has sought additional supplies from SK Hynix and Micron, only to be told that it is "impossible" to meet their requests [4][12]. - Microsoft executives expressed frustration during negotiations with SK Hynix regarding supply contracts, indicating the high stakes involved in securing these critical components [5][12]. Group 2: Strategic Hiring and Management Changes - Major tech companies are altering their hiring practices to prioritize supply chain management in Asia, with procurement managers increasingly based in regions like South Korea, Taiwan, and Singapore [5][13]. - Google and Meta are actively recruiting experts in memory procurement to develop strategies for DRAM and NAND Flash, emphasizing the need for technical coordination and production assurance rather than simple purchasing [6][13]. - The strategy involves placing engineers with expertise in the field to ensure both technical alignment and adequate supply, as companies place indefinite orders for storage chips regardless of price [6][14]. Group 3: Future Projections - Morgan Stanley predicts that Google's TPU shipments will reach 5 million units by 2027, a 67% increase from previous forecasts, contingent on sufficient HBM supply [2][10]. - The seventh generation of Google's TPU will require integration of eight HBM3E stacks, underscoring the critical need for HBM availability to meet production goals [2][10].