On July 10, Nanya Technology, the DRAM subsidiary of Formosa Plastics Group, announced its second-quarter financial results. The company achieved its highest revenue in nearly six quarters, yet persistent declines in average selling prices (ASP) and foreign exchange losses led to a seventh consecutive quarterly loss. However, with major global manufacturers phasing out DDR4 production—driving up DDR4 prices—Nanya has emerged as a key supplier, positioning the industry for a strong rebound in the second half of 2024.
Nanya's Q2 revenue reached NT$10.526 billion, marking a 46.4% quarter-over-quarter increase and a 40% year-over-year rise. Despite this growth, the appreciation of the New Taiwan Dollar resulted in a NT$1.124 billion forex loss, contributing to a net loss of NT$4.109 billion for the quarter. This extends Nanya's losing streak to seven quarters, with earnings per share at -NT$1.32, a gross margin of -20.6%, and an operating loss of NT$4.501 billion.
ASP declined sequentially due to sharp price drops in non-AI products during April and May. Although prices stabilized in June, the recovery was insufficient to offset the quarterly average. Nanya President Pei-Ing Lee noted that Q2 contract prices, negotiated during Q1's weak demand, further pressured actual pricing.
Lee highlighted growing demand for high-capacity, low-power memory driven by AI data centers, smartphone upgrades, and the emergence of AI PCs. While non-AI segments (e.g., traditional PCs and mid-range consumer electronics) remained subdued in H1, supply-demand balance was achieved by late Q2, triggering price rebounds expected to sustain through H2.
Improved negotiation terms in Q3, along with healthy DDR5 and low-power inventory levels, signal better operational performance ahead. Lee emphasized that non-AI applications still account for 90% of DRAM bit volume, with LPDDR4 and DDR4 remaining mainstream. As suppliers optimize capacity and inventory, Nanya anticipates steady growth in H2.
With DDR4 supply tightening and AI-driven demand rising, Nanya is poised to benefit from market recovery, underscoring its strategic role in the memory sector.