Core Insights - ASE Technology Holding Co., Ltd. reported unaudited net revenues of NT$168,569 million for Q3 2025, representing a year-over-year increase of 5.3% and a sequential increase of 11.8% [1] - The net income attributable to shareholders for the quarter was NT$10,870 million, up from NT$9,733 million in Q3 2024 and NT$7,521 million in Q2 2025 [1] - Basic earnings per share for the quarter were NT$2.50 (US$0.168 per ADS), compared to NT$2.25 for Q3 2024 and NT$1.74 for Q2 2025 [1] Financial Performance - Total non-operating income for the quarter was NT$775 million [3] - Cost of revenues was NT$139,692 million, up from NT$125,063 million in Q2 2025 [5] - Gross margin increased to 17.1% in Q3 2025 from 17.0% in Q2 2025, while operating margin improved to 7.8% from 6.8% [5] - Income before tax was NT$13,976 million, compared to NT$9,255 million in Q2 2025 [5] Revenue Breakdown - Net revenues from packaging operations, testing operations, EMS operations, and others represented approximately 47%, 11%, 41%, and 1% of total net revenues, respectively [5] - Net revenues for ATM operations were NT$100,289 million, up by 16.9% year-over-year and 8.3% sequentially [11] - Net revenues for EMS operations were NT$69,022 million, down by 8.4% year-over-year but up by 17.4% sequentially [13] Cost Structure - Raw material costs totaled NT$83,106 million, representing 49% of total net revenues [5] - Labor costs amounted to NT$18,525 million, accounting for 11% of total net revenues [5] - Depreciation, amortization, and rental expenses totaled NT$15,650 million for the quarter [5] Customer Concentration - The five largest customers accounted for approximately 41% of total net revenues in Q3 2025, down from 43% in Q2 2025 [9] - Top 10 customers contributed 58% of total net revenues in Q3 2025, compared to 60% in Q2 2025 [9] Capital Expenditures - Equipment capital expenditures in Q3 2025 totaled US$779 million, with US$534 million allocated to packaging operations [9]

Core Insights - The article provides a comprehensive evaluation of NVIDIA in the Semiconductors & Semiconductor Equipment industry, focusing on financial metrics, market position, and growth prospects [1][2]. Company Overview - NVIDIA is a leading developer of graphics processing units (GPUs), initially used for gaming but now also critical in artificial intelligence applications [2]. - The company offers AI GPUs and a software platform, Cuda, for AI model development and training, while expanding its data center networking solutions [2]. Financial Metrics Comparison - NVIDIA's Price to Earnings (P/E) ratio is 53.16, which is 0.73x lower than the industry average, indicating potential undervaluation [5]. - The Price to Book (P/B) ratio of 45.37 is 5.12x the industry average, suggesting overvaluation in terms of book value [5]. - The Price to Sales (P/S) ratio of 27.84 exceeds the industry average by 2.21x, indicating possible overvaluation based on sales performance [5]. - NVIDIA's Return on Equity (ROE) stands at 28.72%, which is 24.58% above the industry average, reflecting efficient equity use and strong profitability [5]. - The company's EBITDA is $31.94 billion, which is 0.8x below the industry average, potentially indicating lower profitability [5]. - Gross profit of $33.85 billion is 1.03x above the industry average, highlighting strong profitability from core operations [5]. - Revenue growth of 55.6% significantly surpasses the industry average of 26.43%, showcasing exceptional sales performance [5]. Debt-to-Equity Ratio Analysis - NVIDIA has a lower debt-to-equity ratio of 0.11 compared to its top 4 peers, indicating a more favorable balance between debt and equity, which is a positive aspect for investors [8]. - The debt-to-equity ratio is a critical metric for evaluating financial health and risk profile within the industry [7]. Summary of Key Takeaways - NVIDIA's low P/E ratio suggests potential undervaluation, while high P/B and P/S ratios indicate strong market sentiment [7]. - High ROE reflects efficient use of shareholder funds, while low EBITDA may suggest challenges in cash generation [7]. - Strong gross profit margin and high revenue growth indicate a positive sales trajectory within the sector [7].

V i e w p o i n t | 16 Sep 2025 12:20:59 ET │ 10 pages Nicholas Lai +886-2-8726-9093 nicholas.lai@citi.com See Appendix A-1 for Analyst Certification, Important Disclosures and Research Analyst Affiliations. Taiwan Semiconductors and Electronic Components & Equipment US marketing feedback - Structural AI growth continues, prefer NVIDIA supply chain on smooth product cycle transition CITI'S TAKE We were in the US meeting investors over the past two weeks. We note that US investors appear more positive on AI' ...

Core Insights - The article provides a comprehensive analysis of NVIDIA in comparison to its competitors in the Semiconductors & Semiconductor Equipment industry, focusing on financial metrics, market position, and growth potential [1] Company Overview - NVIDIA is a leading developer of graphics processing units (GPUs), initially used for gaming but now also critical in artificial intelligence applications [2] - The company offers AI GPUs and a software platform, Cuda, for AI model development and training, while expanding its data center networking solutions [2] Financial Metrics Comparison - NVIDIA's Price to Earnings (P/E) ratio is 50.48, which is significantly below the industry average by 0.7x, suggesting potential undervaluation [5] - The Price to Book (P/B) ratio of 43.08 is 4.83x the industry average, indicating possible overvaluation in terms of book value [5] - NVIDIA's Price to Sales (P/S) ratio of 26.44 exceeds the industry average by 2.08x, which may also suggest overvaluation in sales performance [5] - The Return on Equity (ROE) stands at 28.72%, which is 24.7% above the industry average, reflecting efficient use of equity to generate profits [5] - EBITDA for NVIDIA is $31.94 billion, which is 0.8x below the industry average, potentially indicating lower profitability [5] - The company has a gross profit of $33.85 billion, which is 1.03x above the industry average, indicating stronger profitability from core operations [5] - Revenue growth for NVIDIA is 55.6%, surpassing the industry average of 27.21%, demonstrating robust sales expansion [5] Debt to Equity Ratio - NVIDIA has a debt-to-equity (D/E) ratio of 0.11, indicating a lower reliance on debt financing compared to its peers, which is viewed positively by investors [8] - The D/E ratio allows for a concise evaluation of the company's financial health and risk profile [7] Summary of Key Takeaways - NVIDIA's low P/E ratio compared to peers suggests potential undervaluation, while high P/B and P/S ratios indicate strong market sentiment [7] - The high ROE reflects efficient use of shareholder funds, while low EBITDA may indicate lower cash generation [7] - High gross profit margin signifies strong profitability, and high revenue growth indicates a positive sales trend within the industry sector [9]

Group 1 - ASE Technology Holding Co Ltd is rated a buy due to its aggressive growth prospects and potential for high profitability within 1-2 years [1] - The investment philosophy of the analyst emphasizes long-term discipline and consistent alpha generation, indicating a focus on sustainable growth [1] - The article reflects the author's personal opinions and does not involve any compensation from the companies mentioned, ensuring an unbiased perspective [1]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Unconsolidated revenue grew by 9% year on year in 2025, with ATM revenues up 18% year on year [5] - Consolidated net revenues for Q2 2025 were NT$150.8 billion, representing a 2% sequential increase and a 7% year-over-year increase [31] - Gross profit for Q2 2025 was NT$25.7 billion, with a gross margin of 17%, improving by 0.2 percentage points sequentially and 0.6 percentage points year over year [32] - Operating profit was NT$10.2 billion, up NT$500 million sequentially and NT$1.2 billion year over year, with an operating margin of 6.8% [33] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The testing business grew by 31% year on year in the first half of 2025, with expectations for continued momentum into the second half [6] - ATM revenues for Q2 2025 were NT$92.6 billion, up NT$5.9 billion sequentially and NT$14.8 billion year over year, representing a 19% annual increase [36] - EMS revenues for Q2 2025 were NT$58.8 billion, declining 6% sequentially and 7% year over year [43] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company noted a disparity between AI and other general sectors, with expectations for improvement in the second half of 2025 and beyond [21] - The company is experiencing strong demand for high-performance computing (HPC) and AI, alongside a healthy recovery in the general market [63] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to expand its leading-edge advanced packaging and testing revenue, targeting a significant increase in 2025 [7] - Investment in R&D, human capital, advanced capacity, and smart factory infrastructures are seen as key supports for multiyear growth [9] - The company is considering overseas expansions while optimizing resources between Taiwan and other locations [22] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the long-term growth prospects despite current foreign exchange challenges, expecting a return to structural margin levels in 2026 [29][93] - The company is focused on leveraging its scale and capabilities to align pricing and investment strategies with its value proposition [55] Other Important Information - The NT dollar strengthened by 4.9% against the U.S. dollar, negatively impacting financial performance due to currency fluctuations [26] - The company anticipates increasing its debt outstanding throughout the year, with a net debt to equity ratio of 52% [46] Q&A Session Summary Question: How to reconcile strong ATM guidance with slow end markets? - Management indicated that guidance is based on firm customer orders, which include AI and other sectors like wireless and automotive [61][62] Question: Why maintain revenue guidance for advanced packaging despite TSMC's revision? - Management explained that capacity constraints are a factor, and they are focused on execution and operational challenges [66][68] Question: Will pricing strategy change due to current currency environment? - Management noted that pricing strategies are under consideration, with a focus on resource optimization and customer loyalty [74][98] Question: Expectations for AI-related business growth in packaging? - Management confirmed intentions to grow both packaging and testing businesses, with a focus on meeting customer requirements [78][80]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Unconsolidated revenue grew by 9% year on year in 2025, with ATM revenues up 18% year on year [6] - Consolidated net revenues for Q2 2025 were NT$150.8 billion, representing a 2% sequential increase and a 7% year-over-year increase [30] - Gross profit for Q2 2025 was NT$25.7 billion, with a gross margin of 17%, improving by 0.2 percentage points sequentially and 0.6 percentage points year over year [31] - Operating profit was NT$10.2 billion, up NT$500 million sequentially and NT$1.2 billion year over year, with an operating margin of 6.8% [32] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - ATM business revenues for Q2 2025 were NT$92.6 billion, up NT$5.9 billion sequentially and NT$14.8 billion year over year, representing a 7% sequential increase and a 19% annual increase [35] - EMS revenues for Q2 2025 were NT$58.8 billion, declining 6% sequentially and 7% year over year [42] - The testing business grew by 31% year on year in the first half of 2025, with expectations for continued momentum into the second half [7] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company noted a strong demand for high-performance computing (HPC) and AI, with a healthy recovery observed across all sectors in Q2 2025 [62] - The disparity between AI and other general sectors is expected to improve in 2026 and beyond [20] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to expand its leading-edge advanced packaging and testing revenue, targeting a significant increase in 2025 [8] - Investment in R&D, human capital, advanced capacity, and smart factory infrastructures is seen as crucial for multiyear growth [9] - The company is focusing on resource optimization between Taiwan and overseas expansions due to current market dynamics [21] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the long-term growth prospects driven by AI proliferation and a general recovery expected in 2026 [9] - The impact of foreign exchange fluctuations was highlighted as a temporary challenge, with expectations for margins to return to structural levels in the future [28][29] - Management emphasized the importance of execution and operational efficiency in navigating current challenges [22] Other Important Information - The company is experiencing a full capacity in leading-edge operations in Taiwan, prompting considerations for overseas expansions [20] - The company anticipates increasing its debt throughout the year, with a net debt to equity ratio expected to peak in Q3 2025 [45] Q&A Session Summary Question: How to reconcile strong ATM guidance with slow end markets? - Management indicated that guidance is based on firm customer orders covering AI and other sectors, suggesting a strong outlook despite general market weakness [60][62] Question: Why maintain revenue guidance despite TSMC's revision? - Management explained that their capacities are full and incremental capacities are being added, indicating a cautious approach to revenue guidance [65] Question: Will pricing strategy change due to current currency environment? - Management noted that strategic initiatives are being recalibrated, including pricing strategies, but emphasized the importance of customer relationships and long-term growth [72][76] Question: Expectations for AI-related business growth in 2026? - Management expressed optimism about growth in both packaging and testing, with a focus on expanding capabilities to meet increasing demand [79][88]

Financial Performance - First Half 2025 - Consolidated revenues grew by 9% year-over-year (YoY) in the first half of 2025 [3] - ATM (Assembly, Testing, and Material) revenues increased by 18% YoY in the first half of 2025 [3] - The testing business experienced substantial growth, increasing by 31% YoY in the first half of 2025 [3] Strategic Focus - Advanced Packaging and Testing - Leading-edge advanced packaging and testing revenues accounted for over 10% of ATM revenues in the first half of 2025, compared to 6% for the full year 2024 [3] - The company targets a US$1 billion increase in leading-edge advanced packaging and testing revenues versus 2024, contributing 10% of growth [4] - The company expects revenue uptrend continuing into 2026 and beyond driven by leading-edge solutions and broad-based semiconductor demand related to AI proliferation and general recovery [4] Capital Expenditure - Machinery capital expenditure (capex) amounted to US$19 billion in the first half of 2025 [3] - Building, facility, and automation capex reached US$09 billion in the first half of 2025, primarily driven by advanced packaging and testing [3] Second Quarter 2025 Results (NT$ million) - ATM net revenues for Q2 2025 were 91,648, representing a 20% YoY increase [10] - EMS net revenues for Q2 2025 were 58,374, showing a 7% YoY decrease [10] - Total net revenues for Q2 2025 reached 150,750, representing a 7% YoY increase [10]

Core Insights - ASE Technology Holding Co., Ltd. reported unaudited net revenues of NT$150,750 million for 2Q25, representing a year-over-year increase of 7.5% and a sequential increase of 1.8% [1] - Net income attributable to shareholders for the quarter was NT$7,521 million, down from NT$7,778 million in 2Q24 and NT$7,554 million in 1Q25 [1] - Basic earnings per share for 2Q25 were NT$1.74 (US$0.111 per ADS), compared to NT$1.80 for 2Q24 and NT$1.75 for 1Q25 [1] Financial Performance - Net revenues from packaging operations, testing operations, EMS operations, and others accounted for approximately 49%, 11%, 39%, and 1% of total net revenues, respectively [6] - Cost of revenues for the quarter was NT$125,063 million, an increase from NT$123,260 million in 1Q25 [6] - Gross margin increased by 0.2 percentage points to 17.0% in 2Q25 from 16.8% in 1Q25 [6] - Operating margin was 6.8% in 2Q25, compared to 6.5% in 1Q25 [6] Non-Operating Items - Net foreign exchange gain was NT$11,885 million, primarily due to the depreciation of the U.S. dollar against the New Taiwan dollar [3] - Total non-operating expenses for the quarter were NT$938 million [6] - Income before tax was NT$9,255 million in 2Q25, compared to NT$9,810 million in 1Q25 [6] Customer Concentration - The five largest customers accounted for approximately 43% of total net revenues in 2Q25, down from 44% in 1Q25 [11] - One customer represented more than 10% of total net revenues in 2Q25 [11] - Top 10 customers contributed 60% of total net revenues in 2Q25, compared to 61% in 1Q25 [11] Capital Expenditures - Equipment capital expenditures in 2Q25 totaled US$992 million, with US$690 million allocated to packaging operations [11] - Total unused credit lines amounted to NT$355,299 million as of June 30, 2025 [11] - Current ratio was 1.02 and net debt to equity ratio was 0.52 as of June 30, 2025 [11]

Investment Rating - The report maintains a "Buy" rating for JCET Group, Tianshui Huatian, and TongFu Microelectronics, with target prices adjusted to Rmb42.000, Rmb11.500, and Rmb30.000 respectively [5][46][51]. Core Insights - The OSAT industry is expected to continue its revenue and profit growth through 2025, with a projected 20% increase in capex, benefiting back-end equipment vendors [1][3][22]. - The OSAT sector is currently halfway through its recovery phase, with demand driven by industrial, automotive, and advanced packaging for high-performance computing (HPC) and power semiconductors [2][8][21]. - JCET is highlighted as the top pick due to its significant exposure to advanced packaging and new growth potential in automotive and memory sectors [4][28]. Summary by Sections Industry Overview - The OSAT industry has been experiencing growth since 1Q24, on track for its sixth consecutive quarter of year-over-year growth, with inventory levels well managed [2][8]. - Historical growth cycles for the OSAT industry have lasted between 3 to 7 years, indicating that the current cycle is still in its early stages [2][8]. Capacity and Utilization - Overall OSAT capacity utilization rates (UTR) are estimated to be between 60-70% in 1Q25, with expectations for improvement throughout the year [3][17]. - Advanced packaging capacity remains tight, while traditional packaging is expected to drive UTR improvements in the latter half of 2025 [3][18]. Company-Specific Insights - JCET is projected to see a 40% increase in capex this year, while Tianshui Huatian and TongFu Microelectronics are also expected to benefit from the industry's recovery [3][22]. - Tianshui Huatian's reliance on AMD for 50% of its revenue poses a risk amid geopolitical tensions, despite potential gains from the industry recovery [4][26]. Financial Projections - JCET's revenue for 2025 is revised to Rmb41.457 billion, reflecting a 3% increase from previous estimates, with a gross profit margin of 14.1% [40]. - Tianshui Huatian's revenue is expected to remain stable at Rmb16.126 billion for 2025, while TongFu Microelectronics' revenue is adjusted down to Rmb27.441 billion [46][51].