Semiconductors

Chipmaker’s chairman short-circuits shareholders

10 Mar 2017

The man leading Cypress Semiconductor's board also helps run a Beijing-backed private equity firm that's buying a tech outfit Cypress eyed in the past. Cypress' recently departed founder now wants the chairman ousted. The governance and conflicts could fry the corporate wiring.

Toshiba memory-chip selloff is drastic medicine

14 Feb 2017

The Japanese group unveiled a $6.3 bln writedown, forecast negative equity and parted company with its chairman. The delivery was chaotic but the message well-telegraphed. The possible sale of a majority of its most valuable unit is new, and reveals the depth of its crisis.

Samsung hits a sweet spot in new technology cycle

6 Jan 2017

The world's biggest smartphone-maker expects fourth-quarter operating profit to top $7.7 bln, smashing expectations. As more devices move to new-generation memory chips and displays, Samsung's early investments in those areas are starting to pay off. That bodes well for 2017.

Renesas programs model outbound Japan deal

13 Sep 2016

The world's No. 3 chipmaker has agreed to buy U.S. peer Intersil for $3.2 bln. Unusually for a Japanese buyer, Renesas has large, clear synergy targets. These are mostly based on higher sales but if achieved, would more than cover the deal's near-$1 bln premium.