Japan Technology: Semiconductors: Investor visit feedback and sector outlook (June 2025) We summarize feedback gathered from over 40 investor meetings conducted across the east coast of the United States and Singapore in late May and early June 2025. While concerns regarding tariffs, export regulations, and the macroeconomic environment persist, investor sentiment towards the semiconductor/SPE sector has improved compared to the period before the 1Q earnings season (April-May). We especially note heightened ...

Core Viewpoint - Nvidia has experienced remarkable growth of 1,321% over five years, establishing itself as a leader in the AI sector, but Qualcomm is emerging as a potential rival due to its focus on Edge AI and cost-effective chip solutions [1][2][3]. Group 1: Nvidia's Market Position - Nvidia continues to dominate the AI and semiconductor sectors despite a -13.04% year-to-date performance dip, benefiting from data centers and enterprise software solutions [2]. - The company has a market cap that surpasses most tech giants, solidifying its position in the AI race [1]. Group 2: Qualcomm's Strategic Shift - Qualcomm is reinventing itself by focusing on Edge AI, aiming to bring artificial intelligence closer to users through smartphones, PCs, and electric vehicles [3]. - The company's expertise in low-power, high-efficiency chips positions it well for the anticipated shift towards more hands-on AI systems [3]. Group 3: Growth Predictions for Qualcomm - Predictions indicate Qualcomm stock could see a maximum increase of +48.70% over the next 12 months, with an average projected growth of +13.23% [4]. - Recent advancements by DeepSeek in developing affordable AI models could enhance Qualcomm's market position, as the company reported a 17% year-over-year revenue growth and a 21% earnings per share increase in Q2 FY2025 [7]. Group 4: Electric Vehicle Market Potential - The electric vehicle industry is projected to grow at a steady annual rate of 6.01% by 2029, reaching a market volume of approximately US$990.4 billion [8]. - Lower-cost AI solutions are expected to be favored by automakers for scaling smart car features, aligning with Qualcomm's focus on cost-effective chip solutions [9]. Group 5: Partnerships and Future Outlook - Qualcomm has previously collaborated with major automakers like BMW and Mercedes-Benz, indicating potential for future high-profile partnerships in the automotive sector [9]. - With a strong foothold in the automotive industry and a focus on affordable chip solutions, Qualcomm may capitalize on the next wave of AI adoption, similar to Nvidia's trajectory [10].

April 21, 2025 11:41 PM GMT Asia Technology | Asia Pacific M Foundation Tuesday TMT: TSMC, Tariff Impact on Technology, and Japan SPE Join our Technology analysts Shawn Kim, Charlie Chan, Tetsuya Wadaki, and Derrick Yang as they discuss TSMC's takeaways post results, further potential tariff impacts on Technology, and Japan semicap equipment updates. | Morgan Stanley Asia Limited+ | | | --- | --- | | Shawn Kim | | | Equity Analyst | | | Shawn.Kim@morganstanley.com | +852 3963-1005 | | Morgan Stanley Taiwan ...