The global notebook supply chain is approaching the third quarter of 2025 with cautious optimism, balancing persistent uncertainty over US tariff policies with hopes for a long-awaited device replacement cycle.

Taiwan-based passive components giant Yageo announced on June 25, 2025, that its previously disclosed tender offer to acquire Japan’s Shibaura has received approval from Taiwan’s Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA) Investment Commission. According to relevant Japanese regulations, the takeover bid (TOB) period will be extended from the original deadline of July 1 to July 9, as Yageo continues to gradually increase its shareholding stake.

As the calendar turns to the third quarter of 2025, the global smartphone industry finds itself at a critical juncture, shaped by a complex mix of geopolitical tensions, tariff uncertainty, and currency volatility. These macroeconomic headwinds continue to weigh on consumer sentiment, making a strong recovery in end-market demand increasingly difficult. Industry analysts are warning of rising operating costs and mounting challenges for smartphone vendors in the second half of the year.