Arizona governor Katie Hobbs visits Taiwan as officials downplay TSMC tech outflow concerns

Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs’s high-profile visit to Taiwan (March 16-19, 2025) comes in the wake of TSMC chairman C.C. Wei’s recent announcement of a substantial increase in US investment to US$100 billion. This expanded commitment has intensified debates within Taiwan about technology transfer and potential industrial hollowing effects on the island’s semiconductor ecosystem. The timing of the investment expansion coincides with growing efforts by US states to attract critical segments of the semiconductor supply chain.

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Samsung SDI to raise US$1.38 billion for Hungarian plant expansion and solid-state battery investment

Samsung SDI, a subsidiary of Samsung Electronics, has announced plans to conduct a paid capital increase of KRW2 trillion (US$1.38 billion) to expand its Hungarian factory and invest in solid-state battery technology. The paid capital increase, a process where a company issues new shares to raise funds for strategic investments, will enable Samsung SDI to finance its ambitious expansion plans.

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US EV market faces slowdown as hybrids gain traction

The US electric vehicle market is losing momentum as policy shifts under President Donald Trump reshape incentives and supply chains. While battery electric vehicle (BEV) sales continue to grow, S&P Global Mobility forecasts a slower pace, extending the deceleration that began in 2024. Hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) are emerging as the preferred choice for consumers concerned about charging infrastructure limitations, particularly amid economic uncertainty.

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