Chip giant SK hynix has exceeded Samsung Electronics in market capitalization for the first time, as confirmed by the bourse operator. SK hynix’s market capitalization hit 2,091 trillion won ($1,358 billion), surpassing Samsung Electronics’ 2,090 trillion won, according to the Korea Exchange (KRX) and Yonhap news agency.
This shift marks the first instance of Samsung Electronics relinquishing its long-held top position on the Korea Composite Stock Price Index (KOSPI) since 2000 when it first claimed the top spot in market capitalization back in 1999. SK hynix’s shares surged by 6.15 percent to 2,934,000 won, while Samsung Electronics saw a 0.99 percent increase to 357,500 won.
In other news, SK hynix recently commenced sending out samples of its latest high-bandwidth memory (HBM) chip, the 12-layer HBM4E, to key global clients. This move signifies a significant advancement in the competition to supply cutting-edge memory for artificial intelligence (AI) applications. The 12-layer HBM4E boasts enhancements in performance and power efficiency, offering over 20 percent better power efficiency compared to its predecessor.
SK hynix’s advancements are poised to enhance data processing capabilities for AI training and inference workloads. Ahn Hyun, president and chief development officer, emphasized the company’s commitment to fortifying its AI leadership through the HBM4E, leveraging its top-notch technological prowess and manufacturing expertise. The company’s clientele includes prominent AI firms like Advanced Micro Devices Inc., Nvidia Corp., and Google.
