DigiTimes heard rumors that Samsung Electronics and memory module firms, including Kingston Technology, have raised their quotes for 4GB DDR3 memory modules, and that prices will likely be pushed up further prior to Lunar New Year in February. The site notes that pricing of DDR3 memory modules is rebounding, after having dropped significantly in 2012.
Samsung recently raised prices for 4GB DRAM parts to between US$17 and US$17.50, while Kingston also lifted its quotes to more than US$20, the sources revealed.
PC OEMs have to accept higher module prices, amid concerns that sluggish growth in chip output may lead to an undersupply, the sources said. With upstream chip producers holding limited inventories, the suppliers as well as dedicated module makers have gained more bargaining chips when negotiating prices, the sources pointed out.
DRAM contract prices fell to US$14-14.50 earlier in 2012, with quotes for corresponding chips slipping to as low as US$0.70, the sources observed. However, prices have rebounded since late 2012.
