On Tuesday, Susquehanna adjusted its price target on Samsung Electronics (LON:0593xq) Co Ltd . (KS:005930:KS) (OTC: SSNLF (OTC:SSNLF)), increasing it to KRW85,000 from KRW83,000, while maintaining a Neutral rating on the stock. The firm highlighted Samsung's strategic changes, particularly within its Semiconductor business unit, as a key factor for the revised target.
The firm's analyst pointed out that Samsung Electronics is shifting its strategy to focus more on profitability and return on invested capital (ROIC) in its Semiconductor division. This shift comes after a period of poor yields and execution in the company's DRAM business unit. The analyst noted that Samsung could start high-volume manufacturing (HVM) of its HBM3.0 for GPU customers by late 2024, which is expected to provide a significant boost to the business.
Samsung's move to customize its High Bandwidth (NASDAQ:BAND) Memory (HBM) for new computing and networking applications, spurred by advancements in artificial intelligence (AI), is anticipated to rejuvenate its DRAM business. The company's ample clean room capacity is also seen as a competitive advantage that could contribute to material growth into 2025.
In the Foundry sector, Samsung is reportedly reassessing its leading-edge roadmap, with the Taylor Fab, initially intended for advanced manufacturing, potentially being repurposed for HBM production. The firm suggests that Samsung Foundry may prioritize 3/5nm technologies, attract more customers, and enhance its margin profile, while potentially slowing or even halting the transition to sub-3nm processes.
Susquehanna's update also reflects an anticipation of a rise in memory prices, with shipments in the second half of 2024 tracking to increase by more than 10% quarter over quarter. This price trend has prompted the firm to update its estimates and price target for Samsung Electronics.
InvestingPro Insights
As Samsung Electronics Co Ltd . (005930:KS) (OTC: SSNLF) undergoes strategic shifts in its Semiconductor business, noted by Susquehanna, the company's financial health and market position offer additional context for investors. According to InvestingPro data, Samsung holds a significant amount of cash on its balance sheet, which exceeds its debt. This robust financial position is a testament to the company's prudent capital management and provides it with the flexibility to navigate its strategic changes effectively.
InvestingPro Tips also reveal that Samsung's net income is expected to grow this year, with three analysts having revised their earnings upwards for the upcoming period. This anticipated growth in profitability is likely a reflection of the company's strategic focus on profitability and ROIC within its Semiconductor division. Moreover, Samsung has been a prominent player in the Technology Hardware, Storage & Peripherals industry, and its ability to maintain dividend payments for 32 consecutive years underscores its financial stability and commitment to shareholder returns.
Investors might also be interested in knowing that Samsung is trading at a high EBIT valuation multiple, suggesting a strong market belief in its future earnings potential. Furthermore, analysts predict that Samsung will remain profitable over the last twelve months, which aligns with Susquehanna's positive outlook on the company's initiatives in the DRAM business and the Foundry sector. For investors seeking more in-depth analysis, there are additional InvestingPro Tips available, which can be accessed at https://www.investing.com/pro/005930. To gain access to these insights, use coupon code PRONEWS24 to get an additional 10% off a yearly or biyearly Pro and Pro+ subscription.
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