Samsung’s operating profit is set to hit a record 86 trillion won, driven by AI-driven memory chip shortages and rising prices.
Samsung Electronics is poised to report an 18-fold jump in second-quarter operating profit to 86 trillion won ($56.35 billion), reflecting surging demand for memory chips used in AI infrastructure. The record profit underscores the sector’s rally, fueled by shortages in DRAM and NAND chips, which have pushed prices higher and expanded margins for memory makers.
The company’s earnings growth follows triple-digit share gains this year for Samsung, SK Hynix, and Micron, reinforcing their combined $1 trillion valuation. Analysts warn, however, that accounting provisions for employee bonuses could temper reported earnings, while cooling AI infrastructure spending remains a key downside risk.
Memory shortages are expected to persist through next year, as AI inference demand outpaces global supply growth. The trend has already pressured downstream businesses, including Samsung’s mobile division, likely leading to further smartphone price increases industry-wide.