• Global chip sales have experienced a notable uptick, marking the first increase in over a year and signaling a rebound in demand propelled by emerging technologies, particularly artificial intelligence. According to the Semiconductor Industry Association based in Washington, semiconductor revenue worldwide reached $48 billion in November 2023, reflecting a 5.3% growth compared to the same period in the previous year. While the month-on-month increase was more moderate at 2.9%, this positive trend suggests a turning point for the semiconductor industry.

• Amid this positive trajectory, Samsung Electronics Co., the world's leading memory chipmaker, posted its sixth consecutive quarter of declining operating profit, underscoring the uneven nature of the industry's recovery among manufacturers. Notably, China played a pivotal role in driving the global increase in chip sales, recording a robust 7.6% growth in November compared to the previous year. Chip sales to the Americas also saw a rise of 3.5%, while Europe experienced a 5.6% increase. In contrast, sales to Japan decreased by 2.8%. The Semiconductor Industry Association, representing 99% of the US chip industry and nearly two-thirds of non-US chip firms, highlights these encouraging developments as the industry navigates dynamic global conditions.