Q: What do you think about Intel, Samsung and TSMC's agreement on 450mm wafer production? And what do you think about the outlook for the semiconductor industry in the second half of 2008?
A: While people are talking about 450mm wafer migration, I think it is too early to discuss the topic because there is no equipment available for evaluating 450mm wafers at the moment. Therefore, I think we are still lacking sufficient information to evaluate 450mm wafer production yet.
Regarding the outlook for the semiconductor industry in the second half of 2008, I would like to reiterate what Chartered said at its previous investors conference, that is, 2008 will be a good year for semiconductor companies. The impact from the subprime mortgage crisis will be the only concern and I am still closely monitoring its impact.
Chartered has no plans for 450mm wafer production yet
Posted on Saturday, June 21 2008 @ 7:05 CEST by Thomas De Maesschalck