Information technology Thanks to the AI boom: Chip manufacturer TSMC's profit rises by 58 percent
The boom in artificial intelligence has brought the chip manufacturer Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC) a healthy profit in the first quarter despite the conflict situation in the Middle East.
16.04.2026, 10:59
SDA
As the world's largest contract manufacturer for semiconductors announced, profits rose by 58 percent in the first three months compared to the same period last year.
TSMC is an important supplier for tech companies such as Nvidia and Apple. The Taiwanese company's figures exceeded expectations and showed that demand for advanced chips remains high.
Possible impact of Middle East conflict
In view of the tense situation caused by the Iran war and the volatile situation in the Middle East, CFO Wendell Huang said that the prices of certain chemicals and gases could rise. This could have an impact on profitability, although "it is too early to quantify the impact," he said.
According to Huang, TSMC is strengthening its strategy to source goods from multiple sources and diversify its global supplier base for specialty chemicals or gases such as helium and hydrogen. The chip giant is working with its suppliers to strengthen the resilience of its supply chain. "Therefore, we do not expect any short-term impact on our operations in terms of material supply," Huang said.
Good outlook for second quarter
In concrete terms, net profit in the first quarter amounted to 572.5 billion Taiwan dollars (around 15.4 billion euros). Turnover increased by 35.1 percent or 1.13 trillion Taiwan dollars. According to Huang, TSMC expects sales of between 39.0 and 40.2 billion US dollars (around 33.1 to 34.1 billion euros) for the current second quarter.
In addition, TSMC intends to increase its investments in order to expand capacity due to AI-driven demand, according to CEO C.C. Wei. The focus will be on advanced technologies to support customer innovation, he explained.
