Component shortages. "AI causes some weakening"

Siltronic has raised its annual sales forecast for the second time this year due to increasing demand for silicon wafers used in semiconductor production. CEO Michael Heckmeier noted that strong demand for AI-related chips is leading manufacturers to allocate more supplies to this sector, potentially reducing availability for other applications. He emphasized that AI's growth is driving a significant increase in silicon usage, with AI server farms consuming three to four times more silicon than traditional servers. Despite potential fluctuations in AI demand, Heckmeier believes the overall industry growth can continue, as production capacities could shift back to chips for smartphones and computers, where demand remains strong.