Murata Manufacturing and Ibiden raised their full-year forecasts in their first-quarter results, helped by expanding AI-related demand. As disclosure of data center sales also progresses, attention is turning to the shape of the electronic components market five years from now and the relative advantages of Japanese companies.
Share prices and earnings in the electronic components sector have remained firm against a backdrop of expanding AI demand. In particular, growing investment related to AI is supporting corporate growth, and moves toward the next stage are gaining momentum.
Murata Manufacturing and Ibiden substantially raised their full-year forecasts in their first-quarter results, demonstrating the strength of AI demand. In addition, Murata Manufacturing disclosed data center sales for the first time at the time of its earnings announcement.
Supply-demand conditions are becoming increasingly tight, particularly in AI-related fields, and production capacity is expected to continue falling short of demand. This is increasing the importance of cutting-edge products, and the analysis indicates that Japanese companies’ technological capabilities will continue to be valued.
The industry landscape five years from now will focus on the secrets behind the strength of Murata Manufacturing and Ibiden, as well as the strategies of companies attracting attention, including TDK and MinebeaMitsumi. The article explains why Japanese electronic components manufacturers may be able to maintain a certain position regardless of the outcome of the AI race.