Samsung Electronics has received strong customer feedback for its next-generation high-bandwidth memory (HBM) chips, known as HBM4, with clients reportedly declaring, “Samsung is back,” co-CEO and chip chief Jun Young-hyun said in a New Year address.
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In October, Samsung revealed it was in advanced discussions to supply its HBM4 chips to U.S. artificial intelligence leader Nvidia, as the South Korean company seeks to strengthen its position in the AI chip market against rivals, including fellow South Korean chipmaker SK Hynix.
Jun acknowledged that while customer recognition is encouraging, Samsung continues to work on improving the competitiveness of its HBM4 products.
SK Hynix CEO Kwak Noh-Jung noted in his New Year remarks that the AI chip market has grown faster than expected, intensifying competition. He emphasized that 2026 would be a tougher business environment, highlighting the need for continued investment to prepare for future growth.
According to Counterpoint Research, SK Hynix led the HBM market in Q3 2025 with a 53% share, followed by Samsung at 35% and Micron at 11%.
The positive sentiment around South Korea’s chipmakers was reflected in the stock market, with Samsung Electronics and SK Hynix shares rising 7.2% and 4%, respectively, on the first trading day of 2026, surpassing the KOSPI’s 2.3% gain.
Samsung also highlighted its foundry business, which manufactures chips designed by customers, as being “primed for a great leap forward” after recent global supply deals. In July 2025, the company signed a $16.5 billion contract with Tesla.
Separately, co-CEO TM Roh, who oversees Samsung’s device experience division including mobile phones, TVs, and home appliances, warned of potential risks in 2026, citing rising component prices and global tariffs. Roh emphasized proactive supply chain diversification and operational optimization to maintain competitiveness amid uncertainty.
