Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the challenges and contradictions faced by the U.S. semiconductor industry, particularly in relation to the CHIPS Act and the role of TSMC, highlighting the internal chaos and global competition that the U.S. is experiencing in its pursuit of technological sovereignty [3][4]. Group 1: CHIPS Act and TSMC's Role - The CHIPS Act, initiated during the Biden administration, is now facing criticism and funding cuts from the Trump administration, revealing the complexities of U.S. technology policy [3]. - TSMC, as the largest foundry globally, is seen as a strategic asset for the U.S., receiving significant financial support for its investments in Arizona, including $6.6 billion in subsidies and $25 billion in tax incentives [3]. - Despite the financial incentives, TSMC's most advanced manufacturing processes (2nm and 1.4nm) will remain in Taiwan, indicating a strategic choice rather than a technical limitation [3]. Group 2: Global Competition and Subsidy Race - The U.S. has inadvertently sparked a global subsidy race, with major tech hubs investing over $150 billion in semiconductor manufacturing and R&D, raising concerns about potential overcapacity and profit compression [4]. - The original intent of the CHIPS Act was to reduce reliance on Asian supply chains and curb China's advancements in critical technologies, but the execution has led to a misalignment with these goals [4]. Group 3: Current Semiconductor Landscape - A 2022 survey by the U.S. Department of Commerce revealed that the most severe chip shortages were in traditional chips (40nm and above), which are primarily produced in Asia, indicating a disconnect between the CHIPS Act's objectives and the actual market needs [4]. - The political divide in the U.S. regarding semiconductor policy has led to uncertainty about the future of the CHIPS Act, with potential delays or renegotiations of subsidies, causing semiconductor companies to adopt a wait-and-see approach [4]. Group 4: Future Directions - The establishment of the National Semiconductor Technology Center (NSTC) in New York marks a new phase for U.S. semiconductor policy, focusing on advanced research in 1.4nm and quantum chips [5]. - Success in regaining technological leadership will require not only financial investment but also clear strategy and international coordination to avoid misdirection and execution imbalances [5].