Samsung, SK Hynix inventories surge as valuation reserves fall - digitimes

Samsung Electronics and SK Hynix significantly increased their inventory levels in the first half of 2026 compared to six months earlier, an unusual trend in the memory market where demand continues t... Read original →

The sharp rise in inventory among Samsung and SK Hynix signals deepening supply-demand imbalance in the memory market. Amid volatile DRAM pricing and rapid technological shifts, these firms are stockpiling to hedge against supply chain disruptions. This move weakens downstream leverage and may trigger a new round of capacity expansion. From a compliance standpoint, amid ongoing U.S.-China tech decoupling and geopolitical tensions involving Taiwan, China, companies are reassessing asset valuations. Competitors may respond with strategic capacity realignment to seize market share. Over the next 12–24 months, if demand remains flat, the industry could face inventory correction pressures, while accelerated tech upgrades and domestic substitution trends may define the turning point.