Micron Technology has recently experienced a remarkable 28.3% growth in the third quarter of 2024, solidifying its position as a key player in the booming DRAM market. Despite this impressive surge, Samsung still holds the top spot, closely trailed by SK Hynix.
According to research from TrendForce, the demand for DRAM is noticeably increasing, buoyed by the rising interest in DDR5 and HBM memory technologies, even as shipments for older LPDDR4 and DDR4 memories decline. The DRAM market revenue recorded a significant 13.6% increase, rising from $22.9 billion in Q2 2024 to $26.02 billion in Q3 2024, marking a substantial $3.1 billion quarter-over-quarter growth.
While Samsung maintains its leading position in the industry, its market share saw a slight dip to 41.1% in Q3. Nevertheless, the company achieved a 9% increase in revenue. SK Hynix also enjoyed a 13.1% revenue boost, maintaining its share in the market, whereas Micron’s share grew from 19.6% to 22.2%, thanks to heightened shipments of server DRAM and its high-end HBM3e chips.
Micron’s aggressive approach in enhancing production capabilities and introducing cutting-edge memory solutions like the HBM3E, with an impressive 36 GB capacity and 9.2 Gbps speed, has played a crucial role in its growth. SK Hynix has also made strides by revealing its 16-Hi HBM3E memory stack, boasting a 48 GB capacity.
However, Taiwanese DRAM suppliers such as Nanya, Winbond, and PSMC faced a revenue slump, experiencing declines of -17.9%, -8.6%, and -27.6%, respectively. For instance, Nanya’s revenue fell from $307 million to $252 million quarter-over-quarter, while Winbond’s revenue decreased from $168 million to $154 million. PSMC saw a drop from $24 million to $18 million.
Despite these contrasting performances, top players are strategically cutting down on DRAM supply, opting instead to focus on upgrading their existing technology. Reports indicate that Chinese DRAM firms are ramping up their shipments, presenting competitive pricing that could lure OEMs and mobile brands. This might lead to a decline in contract prices for both DRAM and HBM memory products.
Looking forward, the DRAM market revenue is predicted to continue its upward trend in Q4 2024, with Chinese suppliers potentially driving significant market growth.
