APALT(002540)2024-10-13 16:43Investment Rating - The report reiterates a "Buy" rating on both SK Hynix and Samsung Electronics, with Hynix being on the APAC Conviction List [2][4][5]. Core Insights - The report highlights that Korean memory suppliers, SK Hynix and Samsung Electronics, are expected to experience stronger growth in 3Q24 in terms of average selling price (ASP) and bit shipment compared to Nanya Technology, primarily due to a higher mix of high-end products like HBM and DDR5 [2][3]. - Nanya Technology reported a mid-single-digit percentage increase in ASP for 3Q24, while its bit shipment decreased by low-twenties percent. In contrast, Hynix and SEC are expected to see DRAM ASP growth of 12% and 9%, respectively, with bit shipment growth of +2% and -2% [2][3]. - The pricing outlook for 4Q24 is challenging for Nanya, as it anticipates minimal contribution from DDR5, while Hynix and SEC are expected to see blended DRAM ASP growth of 9% and 6%, respectively, due to continued improvement in product mix towards HBM and DDR5 [2][3]. - Nanya has lowered its capital expenditure guidance for the year from NT20 billion, representing a ~3% decline from peak levels in 2022. In contrast, DRAM capex for Hynix and SEC is expected to grow year-over-year, primarily focused on HBM capacity and fab construction [2][3]. Summary by Sections Nanya Technology Performance - Nanya's 3Q24 ASP increased by mid-single-digit percentage quarter-over-quarter, while bit shipment decreased by low-twenties percent [2]. - The company faces challenges in 4Q24 due to minimal DDR5 output and elevated inventory levels in the DDR3&4 market [2][3]. SK Hynix and Samsung Electronics Outlook - Hynix and SEC are positioned to benefit from stronger demand for high-end products, with expected ASP growth of 12% and 9% for Hynix and SEC, respectively, in 3Q24 [2][3]. - Both companies are expected to see solid pricing growth in 4Q24, driven by a favorable product mix towards HBM and DDR5 [2][3]. Capital Expenditure Trends - Nanya has significantly reduced its capex guidance for the year, while Hynix and SEC are expected to increase their DRAM capex, focusing on HBM and fab construction [2][3].