TSMC Profit Surge Fails to Lift Global Chip Stocks
Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. (TSMC) reported a 77% increase in second-quarter profit, beating analysts’ expectations thanks to strong demand for artificial intelligence chips. Despite the strong results, semiconductor stocks across Asia and Europe remained under pressure as investors questioned whether heavy AI spending will continue to deliver strong returns.
South Korea’s KOSPI index declined, while shares of major chipmakers including Samsung Electronics and SK Hynix remained volatile. Market sentiment was also affected by geopolitical tensions in the Middle East and uncertainty over future interest rate decisions.
Investors are now watching upcoming earnings from major technology companies to determine whether AI-related investments can continue supporting market growth in the second half of 2026.