Apple Supplier IQE Considers Sale After Earnings Downgrade Amid Weak Mobile Demand
IQE Plc, a key supplier of semiconductor wafers for Apple's facial recognition technology, plunged to multiyear lows after slashing earnings guidance and exploring strategic alternatives. The Cardiff-based firm saw shares drop 9% to 7.82 pence as weakening smartphone demand compounds U.S. tariff pressures on chip components.
The company warned of persistent softness in wireless communication components through year-end, prompting plans to shift production stateside. This aligns with broader industry trends as manufacturers navigate the TRUMP administration's tariff regime designed to onshore semiconductor capacity.