WT Microelectronics, a Taiwan-based IC distributor, reports that the impact of US tariffs on its operations remains minimal, as most components are exempt from such duties. WT Microelectronics chairman Eric Cheng notes that while certain sectors like smartphones, PCs, and servers have experienced accelerated inventory replenishment due to tariffs, the overall semiconductor industry is unmistakably emerging from its trough in the second quarter of 2025.
Over the past decade, Samsung Electronics executive chairman Lee Jae-Yong has leveraged global mergers and acquisitions (M&A) to transform Samsung into a "technology-first" company. Rather than pursuing large-scale deals, Lee has focused on strategic acquisitions that strengthen core technologies. These efforts have laid the foundation for Samsung's competitiveness in semiconductors, automotive electronics, AI, and display sectors.
On May 8, Infineon Technologies announced its financial results for the second quarter of fiscal 2025, reporting revenue of EUR3.59 billion (approx. US$4.03 billion), a 1.1% decline year-over-year. Automotive revenue contributed EUR1.86 billion to the total. Total segment profit was EUR601 million, down 15% year-over-year, with a segment result margin of 16.7%, compared to 19.5% in the prior year. The automotive segment achieved a result margin of 20.7%.
As tariff uncertainties and sharp foreign exchange swings reshape the global automotive supply chain, Taiwanese LED car lighting module manufacturer Excellence Opto (EOI) is facing heightened operational challenges.
China dominates global solar manufacturing with an 85% market share, a position that has prompted strategic shifts in US policy. During former President Joe Biden's administration, the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) offered substantial subsidies, enticing Chinese solar firms to establish US-based factories. In contrast, President Donald Trump has signaled intentions to repeal the IRA and escalate tariff wars, further accelerating Chinese manufacturers' rush to build American facilities.
Innolux Corporation, one of the world's leading panel manufacturers, held its annual general meeting this week. During the meeting, shareholders elected a new nine-member board, including five independent directors. Following the meeting, the board reappointed Jim Hung as Chairman and CEO, reinforcing his leadership amid a pivotal moment in the company's transformation.
Recent fluctuations in the New Taiwan Dollar exchange rate have created uncertainty across markets and supply chains, with small and medium-sized automotive parts manufacturers acknowledging their lack of operational flexibility.
Billionaire Li Shufu is ramping up a push to streamline his sprawling business empire, with his Hong Kong-listed Geely Automobile Holdings Ltd. offering to take premium electric-car maker Zeekr Private.
Tesla has rolled out a new camera-based driver-assistance system in China while awaiting government approval for its Full Self-Driving (FSD) technology. Unlike most Chinese EV makers that rely on LiDAR sensors, Tesla is sticking to a vision-only approach, it says offers superior performance and lower costs.
Mitsubishi Motors said on May 7 that it signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Foxtron Vehicle Technologies—a joint venture between Foxconn and Yulon Motor—to jointly develop and supply electric vehicles. Under the OEM agreement, Foxtron will design the EV, while production will be handled by Yulon, with both sides planning to finalize a formal contract in due course.
The fatal crash involving a Xiaomi SU7 and three students has sparked nationwide backlash and triggered a fundamental shift in how Chinese automakers market self-driving technology. The buzzword "smart driving" is rapidly being phased out in favor of the more conservative and safety-conscious term "assisted driving."
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