In a rare sign of easing tensions, the US and China have reached a temporary détente on tariffs, agreeing to a 90-day truce that significantly reduces mutual trade penalties. Under the agreement, Washington will lower tariffs on Chinese imports to a maximum of 30%, while Beijing will scale back its duties on American goods to 10%.

Intelligent Epitaxy Technology (IntelliEPI), a supplier of epitaxial wafers, is positioned for strong performance in 2025, driven by increasing demand in the artificial intelligence and defense sectors. The company’s chairman, Yung-Chung Kao, anticipates moderate operational growth in the second quarter of 2025, supported by a positive outlook for orders. However, the supply of indium phosphide (InP) substrates remains a critical variable, with shipments expected to remain balanced. The company’s overarching goal is to achieve an all-time revenue peak for the year.

Semiconductor testing interface and equipment provider MPI Corporation delivered a stronger-than-expected first quarter in 2025, driven by robust demand from AI and high-performance computing (HPC) clients. Despite the typical seasonal slowdown, the company reported near-full capacity utilization and double-digit year-over-year growth across key metrics.