Core Viewpoint - Tekscend Photomask, a leading semiconductor photomask manufacturer, has successfully launched an IPO in Japan, raising 156.6 billion yen, marking it as the second-largest IPO in Japan this year, and positioning the company as a key player in the global semiconductor industry [1][2][5]. Company Overview - Tekscend Photomask, headquartered in Tokyo, was formerly a division of Toppan Holdings and became independent in late 2021. The company is primarily owned by Toppan (50.1%) and Integral Corp. (49.9%) [3]. - The company specializes in semiconductor photomasks for process nodes ranging from 90nm to 1nm, including advanced specifications like EUV, and operates eight factories across Japan, the U.S., and Europe [4][5]. IPO Details - The IPO was priced at 3,000 yen per share, at the upper limit of the pricing range, and attracted significant interest from institutional investors, including the Qatar Investment Authority [2][3]. - The funds raised will be used for R&D in 1nm EUV masks, expanding production capacity in Dresden and Tokyo, and repaying acquisition loans [5][15]. Market Position and Strategy - Tekscend holds approximately 25% market share in the advanced photomask market for 3nm and below, making it the only company in Japan capable of mass-producing EUV masks [5][15]. - The company aims to achieve mass production of 2nm masks by the 2026 fiscal year and 1nm masks by 2030, with a roadmap that includes significant technological advancements and collaborations with IBM and imec [4][14]. Industry Context - Japan's semiconductor industry is experiencing a resurgence, supported by government policies and investments aimed at reclaiming 10% of global production capacity [7][10]. - The establishment of companies like Rapidus, backed by major corporations, aims to enhance Japan's position in the semiconductor supply chain, particularly in advanced logic chips [8][10]. Financial Performance - Tekscend's projected revenue for the 2024 fiscal year is approximately 175 billion yen, with an operating profit margin of 18%. The company plans to increase the revenue share from high-end masks to 55% by 2028 [5][15]. - The IPO proceeds are expected to significantly enhance the company's financial position, allowing for strategic investments in high-margin segments of the semiconductor supply chain [15][16].