Investor Presentation_ Mid Small Cap_Manufacturer_ Tech Monthly February 2025

Summary of Key Points from the Conference Call Industry Overview - The focus is on the small-cap perspective in tech-related subindustries, particularly semiconductor-related companies [3][4] - The overall industry view is categorized as "In-Line" by Morgan Stanley MUFG Securities [1] Semiconductor Industry Insights - There is no change in earnings growth trends at semiconductor testing and cutting-edge package companies [5] - Orders for electrical power equipment have been increasing due to production capacity constraints and future delivery projects, with demand driven by the replacement of aging equipment, renewable energy, data centers, and power grid battery systems [7] - The market for front-end semiconductor processing equipment (SPE) is dull in 2025, with risks including a slowdown in China and ongoing adjustments in SPE for power chips [8] - Strong demand for high-bandwidth memory (HBM) in DRAM SPE is noted, but a cautious outlook is maintained for commodity DRAM [8] - A recovery in NAND is observed after a prolonged downturn, with advancements in cryogenic etching and hybrid bonding technologies [8] - Demand for photoresist-related materials remains strong, particularly for EUV applications [8] - The timing of recovery in automotive and industrial equipment demand has been delayed, with strong demand noted only for testing-related components [9] Market Forecasts - Forecasts for various end markets indicate fluctuations in unit sales, with notable projections for servers, PCs, smartphones, and light vehicles [10] - For example, smartphone sales are projected to decline from 1,206 million units in 2023 to 1,164 million in 2024, before recovering to 1,283 million by 2026 [10] - The forecast for electric vehicles (BEV) shows significant growth, with projections increasing from 8 million units in 2024 to 14 million by 2026 [10] Stock Price Trends - Stock price trends for semiconductor equipment-related companies are tracked, with various companies showing different performance metrics [12][15][21] - The Nikkei average serves as a benchmark for comparison, with specific companies like Tokyo Electron and ASML highlighted for their stock performance [13][14] Company-Specific Performance - Detailed sales performance data for specific companies in the semiconductor supply chain is provided, showing year-over-year changes in sales [27][28] - For instance, Shinko Electric Industries reported a significant decline in plastic packaging sales, dropping by 40% in one quarter [28] - Other companies like AJINOMOTO and Taiyo Holdings also show varying performance metrics, indicating a mixed outlook across the sector [28] Conclusion - The semiconductor industry is experiencing a complex landscape with both challenges and opportunities, particularly in the context of evolving technologies and market demands [8][9] - Continuous monitoring of demand trends, stock performance, and company-specific earnings will be crucial for investors looking to navigate this sector effectively [8][27]