GlobalFoundries, Taiwanese chipmaker UMC consider merger: sources

TAIWAN’S major chipmaker United Microelectronics and US-based GlobalFoundries are looking into the possibility of a merger, two sources familiar with the matter told Reuters on Monday.

A combined company would establish a larger US-based firm with a global manufacturing footprint spanning Asia, United States and Europe.

The potential deal comes as the US seeks to strengthen its semiconductor supply chain amid rising geopolitical tensions in the Taiwan Strait and increasing competition from China in the mature chip market.

The merged company would prioritize research and development investments in the US and could possibly emerge as a viable alternative to Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co, the world’s leading chipmaker.

UMC said the “company policy is not to comment on market rumours”, while GlobalFoundries did not immediately respond to a Reuters’ request for comment.

GlobalFoundries has a market capitalisation of US$20.41 billion, while UMC is currently valued at US$16.90 billion, according to data compiled by LSEG.

Shares of UMC ended 0.2 per cent higher at NT$44.65 on Monday, while GlobalFoundries closed marginally up. REUTERS