5 AI Chip Stocks Most Exposed to Trump’s New 25% Tariff

Core Viewpoint - The semiconductor industry, particularly companies like TSMC, NVIDIA, and AMD, faces significant risks from potential tariffs on AI chips, which could impact profitability and market dynamics. Group 1: TSMC's Position and Tariff Risks - TSMC manufactures 90% of the world's advanced chips from Taiwan, making it highly vulnerable to tariff risks, especially with a potential 25% tariff on Taiwan-manufactured chips [4] - The company has raised its 2026 capital expenditure guidance to $56 billion, indicating confidence in AI demand, but this confidence is now challenged by tariff uncertainties [3] - TSMC's stock surged 8% following strong earnings, but this rally may be precarious if tariff details disappoint [6][22] Group 2: Impact on NVIDIA and AMD - NVIDIA and AMD rely on TSMC for manufacturing all their AI chips, making them susceptible to margin compression due to a 25% cost increase from tariffs [7][11] - NVIDIA generated $187 billion in trailing revenue with 70% gross margins, which cannot absorb a 25% cost increase without affecting demand or profitability [8] - AMD's revenue for Q3 increased by 36% year-over-year to $9.2 billion, but it has less pricing power than NVIDIA, making it more vulnerable to tariff impacts [11][12] Group 3: Qualcomm and Apple's Exposure - Qualcomm's exposure to tariffs is nuanced as it designs mobile processors and 5G chips, but still relies on TSMC for manufacturing, creating indirect exposure [15] - Qualcomm generated $44.3 billion in trailing revenue with 26% operating margins, which limits its ability to pass on tariff costs [16] - Apple is the least exposed to AI chip tariffs as it does not manufacture AI chips for external sale, allowing it to absorb incremental costs better than pure-play chip manufacturers [18][19] Group 4: Market Sentiment and Future Outlook - The market remains optimistic about AI demand, as evidenced by the rally in TSMC's stock, but the future profitability of companies like TSMC and NVIDIA will depend on tariff exemptions [21][22] - If tariffs force hyperscalers to delay purchases or negotiate price cuts, NVIDIA's operating margins could come under pressure [9]