研报 | MLCC市场下半年旺季不确定风险增加

Core Insights - The MLCC supply-demand rhythm is disrupted in the first half of 2025, with increased risks of a "weak peak season" in the second half due to rising caution and wait-and-see attitudes among companies and end markets [1] - OEMs and ODMs have moved North American Chromebook and some consumer laptop orders to the first quarter, leading to unexpectedly weak stocking momentum for the traditional education laptop peak season starting in April [1] - The average forecast order volume for Dell and HP education laptops from MLCC suppliers is expected to decrease by 20% to 25% in the second quarter [1] Group 1: Market Demand and Supply Challenges - The decline in end-market demand and soaring sales costs present two major challenges for MLCC suppliers, including the risk of OEMs reducing orders and potential price reductions [2] - The Japanese yen has become a favored safe-haven currency, appreciating from 150 to 141 yen against the dollar since April, impacting MLCC pricing [2] - Current pricing for mid-capacity and automotive-grade MLCC products is below the levels seen in Q4 2019, indicating a significant market shift [2] Group 2: AI Server Segment - The order and material preparation momentum for AI servers remains robust, with ODMs in Mexico benefiting from the USMCA agreement, allowing for normal shipments [1] - However, future international situation changes could still pose risks to this segment [1] - High-end standard products commonly used in AI servers have seen significant profit declines due to competitive bidding in 2024, leading to low visibility in end-order demand [2]