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AI Semiconductor Supply Chain: Mapping Critical Dependencies

Jan 20, 2026|Quant Research|Industry Deep Dive
SemiconductorsSupply ChainGeopoliticsASMLTSM

A comprehensive mapping of the AI semiconductor supply chain, identifying single points of failure and geopolitical risk concentrations.

Supply Chain Architecture

The AI semiconductor ecosystem has several critical chokepoints:

  1. EUV Lithography: ASML is the sole supplier of extreme ultraviolet lithography machines
  2. Leading-Edge Foundry: TSMC manufactures 90%+ of leading-edge (<7nm) chips
  3. HBM: SK Hynix controls ~50% of HBM market, Samsung ~40%
  4. Advanced Packaging: TSMC CoWoS and AMKR/ASE for non-TSMC packaging

Geopolitical Risk Matrix

ComponentPrimary SourceGeo Risk
EUV machinesNetherlands (ASML)Medium
Leading-edge fabTaiwan (TSMC)High
HBMSouth KoreaMedium
Chip designUSALow
Rare earthsChinaHigh

Scenario Impact

A Taiwan contingency would impact ~$500B in annual semiconductor output. Investors should monitor cross-strait relations and US/Japan/EU fab expansion timelines.