AI demand boosted Korea's semiconductor exports and profits for Samsung and SK hynix; shipments to China and the US rose. Yet policy risks from U.S. tariffs loom despite a record 2025 level.
Abstract: The article reports that South Korea's semiconductor exports surged in early April, driven by AI-related demand that increased memory-chip shipments and profits for Samsung Electronics and SK hynix. Exports rose to US$18.3 billion in April 1–20, with total exports up 49.4% to US$50.4 billion and a US$10.4 billion trade surplus. China and the United States were primary growth markets, and 2025 semiconductor exports reached a record US$173.4 billion, up over 20% year over year. However, policy uncertainties persist: a 25% U.S. tariff on certain advanced computing chips could affect sentiment, memory-chip exports being excluded, and tensions in the Middle East and broader tariff policies could weigh on the outlook.
Gate News message, April 21 — Fitch Ratings downgraded the Philippines' credit outlook to negative from stable on Monday, April 20, while affirming its "BBB" credit rating. The negative outlook places the rating at risk of a cut within the next 18 to 24 months.
Fitch cited two main drivers for the
Gate News message, April 21 — South Korea's newly appointed central bank governor Shin Hyun-song pledged to advance the development of a central bank digital currency (CBDC) and deposit tokens in his inaugural address on April 21. He outlined plans to expand these initiatives through the second
