Samsung Electronics projects an operating profit of ₩107.4 trillion, approximately $80.17 billion, for the third quarter. This figure surpasses analyst expectations of ₩106.1 trillion and marks a ninefold increase compared to the same period last year. If confirmed, this will be the first time the company exceeds the ₩100 trillion threshold in quarterly operating profit.
The surge in profit is driven by a global shortage of memory chips fueled by AI infrastructure development. High demand for DRAM, NAND, and HBM memory in AI servers has led to significant price increases. Revenue is estimated to reach ₩195 trillion, a 127% year-over-year growth, with the semiconductor division expected to be the primary contributor to these record-breaking results.
Despite the semiconductor boom, other business segments face challenges. The shift of manufacturing capacity toward high-margin HBM has limited the supply of standard DRAM. Consequently, the smartphone division is experiencing higher component costs, forcing price hikes for some consumer electronics. Samsung plans to release its full financial report on October 29.
Market analysts anticipate that memory demand will continue to outpace supply in the coming years. However, the industry remains exposed to potential risks, including new US tariffs and intensified competition from China. While the current market imbalance has secured record profits for Samsung, it also signals potential further price increases for end-users of electronic devices.
