NASDAQ:SKHY SK hynix Q2 2026 Earnings Report $128.72 -1.45 (-1.11%) As of 10:46 AM Eastern This is a fair market value price provided by Massive. Learn more. ProfileEarnings HistoryForecast SK hynix EPS ResultsActual EPS$8.76Consensus EPS $5.12Beat/MissBeat by +$3.64One Year Ago EPSN/ASK hynix Revenue ResultsActual RevenueN/AExpected RevenueN/ABeat/MissN/AYoY Revenue GrowthN/ASK hynix Announcement DetailsQuarterQ2 2026Date7/29/2026TimeBefore Market OpensConference Call DateTuesday, July 28, 2026Conference Call Time8:00PM ETConference Call ResourcesConference Call AudioConference Call TranscriptSlide DeckPress ReleaseEarnings HistoryCompany ProfileSlide DeckFull Screen Slide DeckPowered by SK hynix Q2 2026 Earnings Call TranscriptProvided by QuartrJuly 28, 2026 ShareLink copied to clipboard.Key Takeaways Positive Sentiment: Record second-quarter performance: Revenue reached KRW 79.3 trillion, up 51% quarter-on-quarter, while operating income rose to KRW 60.5 trillion and operating margin reached an all-time high of 76%. Results were driven by higher DRAM and NAND prices, HBM, server memory, and enterprise SSD demand. Positive Sentiment: AI memory demand remains robust: SK hynix expects AI infrastructure investment to continue despite more efficient models and data-center leasing, with demand broadening across HBM, server DRAM, and high-capacity enterprise SSDs. The company forecasts constrained-market demand growth of mid-20% for DRAM and high-teens for NAND. Positive Sentiment: HBM4 and product mix support the second half: HBM4 mass production began in the second quarter, with a full ramp planned for the second half, while HBM4E samples have been delivered and volume production is targeted for 2027. Management expects higher HBM4 and 1c-nanometer DRAM contributions to lift shipments, blended ASPs, and earnings. Positive Sentiment: Long-term agreements improve demand visibility: The company has completed or is negotiating multi-year agreements with around 10 customers, typically covering roughly five years and including volume commitments, pricing mechanisms, and deposits. Management said these arrangements should support investment planning and provide greater downside resilience while retaining some market flexibility. Negative Sentiment: Capacity expansion will materially raise investment needs: Accelerated M15X and Yongin expansion, along with planned P&T7 and M17 projects, is expected to push 2026 capital expenditures into the high-KRW-40-trillion range. Although investments will be staged against customer demand, the scale increases execution, cash-allocation, and potential future oversupply risks. AI Generated. May Contain Errors.Conference Call Audio Live Call not available Earnings Conference CallSK hynix Q2 202600:00 / 00:00Speed:1x1.25x1.5x2xTranscript SectionsPresentationParticipantsPresentationSkip to Participants Park Seong-hwanHead of Investor Relations at SK hynix00:00:00Good morning. Thank you for your participation in SK hynix earnings release conference call. Today, we will begin with SK hynix's presentation and move on to a Q&A session. If you have any questions, please press star one, that is star and one on your phone. Note that presentations will be interpreted simultaneously, and the Q&A session will be consecutively interpreted. With that, we will now begin SK hynix earnings release conference call for second quarter of 2026. Good morning, afternoon, and evening. This is Park Seong-hwan, Head of IR at SK hynix. Welcome to the SK hynix 2026 second quarter earnings release conference call. Allow me to introduce the executives present here with me today. Park Seong-hwanHead of Investor Relations at SK hynix00:00:49We are joined by President of Corporate Center, Song Hyeon-jong, CFO, Kim Woo-hyun, Head of DRAM Marketing, Park Joon-deok, Head of NAND Marketing, Song Chang-seop, and Head of HBM Sales and Marketing, Kim Ki-tae. Let me issue a disclaimer that our second quarter results included in this conference call are consolidated figures and provisional in nature, as the external auditor's review has not yet been completed. Accordingly, they remain subject to change. In addition, forward-looking statements, including market outlook and the company's plans may vary depending on changes in macroeconomic and market circumstances. With that, we will now begin SK hynix earnings release conference call for second quarter of 2026. President Song Hyeon-jong will first present the earnings, followed by the company's future plans and market outlook, and a Q&A session with the attending executives. Good morning, everyone. Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix00:01:43This is Song Hyeon-jong, President of Corporate Center. Allow me to first introduce SK hynix's performance for the second quarter of 2026. In the second quarter, strong demand driven by the expansion of AI infrastructure investment and a tight supply environment continued, leading to a sustained upward trend in prices. Both DRAM and NAND recorded meaningful price increases following the previous quarter, with AI-related products such as server DRAM and enterprise SSDs driving this growth. As a result, second quarter revenue increased by 51% quarter-on-quarter and 257% year-on-year, reaching KRW 79.3 trillion, marking a record high revenue following the previous quarter. In DRAM, amidst limited supply capabilities, we expanded sales centered on HBM3E and AI server DRAM products, achieving high single-digit percent increase in bit shipments in line with our guidance. In particular, sales of LPDDR products for servers, including SOCAMM2, grew significantly. Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix00:02:48ASP rose by approximately 30%, driven by the continued price strength in conventional DRAM. In NAND, from a low base of reduced shipments in the first quarter and with the expansion of enterprise SSD sales, we recorded a mid-teen percent increase in bit shipments in line with our guidance. Our enterprise SSD revenue increased twofold from that of the previous quarter, and Solidigm's revenue from high-capacity enterprise SSDs of 30 TB and above also expanded more than threefold from that of last quarter. ASP increased by mid 50% due to strong pricing across all products. With price increases across both DRAM and NAND segments and improvement in stock cost structure, second quarter operating income reached KRW 60.5 trillion, up 61% quarter-on-quarter and 557% year-on-year. Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix00:03:40Operating margin also improved by 5 percentage points from that of the previous quarter to record 76%, achieving all-time highs for both operating income and operating margin. Second quarter depreciation and amortization amounted to KRW 4 trillion. EBITDA stood at KRW 64.6 trillion with an EBITDA margin of 81%. Net non-operating profit reached KRW 62.2 trillion, including foreign exchange-related net gains of KRW 1.1 trillion due to the rising exchange rate and gains from the sale and valuation of investment assets totaling KRW 63.3 trillion. Consequently, pre-tax profit was KRW 122.7 trillion, net profit was KRW 93.9 trillion, and the net profit margin was 118%. As of the end of the second quarter, our cash and cash equivalents, including short-term investments, stood at KRW 88 trillion, an increase of KRW 33.6 trillion from the end of the previous quarter. Interest-bearing debt decreased by KRW 0.7 trillion-KRW 18.6 trillion. Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix00:04:49Accordingly, net cash expanded to KRW 69.4 trillion, and debt-to-equity ratio improved by 5 percentage points from the previous quarter end to 7%. Now let me share our market outlook. AI technology is evolving into an agentic form that performs complex tasks on behalf of users for extended periods. As AI spreads across various services such as search, coding, and productivity tools, the scope of demand is widening from a memory perspective. Alongside high-performance memory like HBM, which is necessary for improving AI server performance and expanding system scale, demand for server DRAM to support agent services is also increasing. Additionally, the role of high-performance enterprise SSDs is widening for more efficient processing of continuously generated AI outputs. We are witnessing a structural shift in demand where both AI memory and conventional memory are growing together. Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix00:05:44As AI models improve and software optimization advances, the computational volume and cost per individual task are continuously decreasing. We anticipate that these improvements in efficiency will not dampen overall infrastructure demand. Rather, they will lower price and adoption barriers for AI services, thereby expanding the user base and scope of applications. Major big tech customers are expanding infrastructure investments due to increased AI service usage and shortage of computing capacity. Based on the growth in revenue and profits generated from AI services, they appear to be continuing to expand their memory procurement. In fact, our major customers are still requesting more memory supply. In PC and mobile applications Temporary sales adjustments are occurring due to difficulties in securing memory. We expect these segments to gradually regain growth momentum as supply shortage eases and AI services become more widely adopted. Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix00:06:40Amidst constrained supply conditions, DRAM and NAND demand are projected to grow by mid-20% and high teen percent respectively. Should supply constraints ease going forward, the market's growth trajectory could expand further as latent demand is met. On the supply side, however, it appears difficult for the supply-demand balance to improve meaningfully in the near term. This is due to the increasing complexity of advanced processes applied to HBM and AI server memory, as well as lead times required for constructing new production facilities. With tight supply-demand conditions expected to persist for a considerable period, discussions regarding multi-year contracts to secure mid to long-term supply stability with customers are ongoing. To date, we have concluded LTA negotiations with around 10 customers, including our key customers, and are continuing further discussions with our major industry players. These LTAs represent strategic partnerships that go beyond simple volume supply. Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix00:07:40They are designed to secure mid to long-term supply stability and facilitate the development of next generation memory aligned with our customers' technology roadmaps. While specific pricing structures vary depending on the customer and product characteristics, they are designed to address price volatility. Furthermore, financial mechanisms such as deposits are incorporated to support contract fulfillment and enhance the visibility and reliability of customers' mid to long-term demand plans. Building on this, we will enhance the efficiency of our investments and production operations, thereby strengthening the foundation for mid to long-term business stability and sustainable growth. Next, I will discuss the company's plans. For the third quarter, DRAM shipments are expected to increase by approximately 10% from that of Q2 as we actively respond to demand with focus on server products. For NAND, we plan bit shipment increase of low single-digit percent quarter-on-quarter. Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix00:08:34As AI models become more sophisticated, the performance levels required for memory are rising even further, and the scope of competitiveness is expanding beyond the design of individual memory products to include system architecture and packaging technologies. Leveraging our competitive portfolio of DRAM and NAND, including HBM, and our co-development capabilities with customers, we will lead memory innovation from a system level. First, regarding HBM4, through continuous product optimization, we have demonstrated differentiated technological competitiveness by achieving the data processing speeds required by customers, while attaining industry-leading power efficiency and cost competitiveness. We began mass production shipments in Q2 and plan full-fledged ramp up of production in the second half of the year. For HBM4E, we supply samples to major customer in the first half of the year. Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix00:09:22HBM4E is produced with the optimal tech node that is mature and has proven mass production stability, and we expect the subsequent development schedule to proceed smoothly. Based on our comprehensive competitiveness, which includes stable supply capabilities and cost competitiveness backed by superior quality and high yields, as well as industry-leading performance, we will continue to maintain our HBM leadership. Additionally, for DRAM, we have fully commenced the supply of SOCAMM2 products based on the 1z nm process in the second quarter. Moving forward, we will optimize our product lineup in alignment with customer development schedules and prepare for sample shipments to expand our customer base. For NAND, we will accelerate the transition to advanced nodes and strengthen our portfolio with a focus on high-capacity, high-performance products to meet market demand. Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix00:10:09In the previous quarter, our 321-layer product accounted for the largest proportion of NAND production, and we plan to expand the share within our domestic capacity to the 50% level by the end of the year as planned. In a market situation where supply-demand imbalances persist, stable supply capability, the ability to deliver the volumes customers want in a timely manner, is emerging as a core business competitiveness alongside technological proficiency. Therefore, to respond to robust customer demand and mid to long-term growth opportunities, we are continuing investment plans to expand our production capacity. In the short term, to enhance our supply responsiveness, we are pulling forward the mass production schedule for M15X and proceeding with investments to rapidly expand production capacity following the clean room opening of the Yongin Phase 1 in early 2027. Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix00:11:01Due to the schedule acceleration and investment expansion, our 2026 CapEx is expected to reach the high KRW 40 trillion range. In the mid to long term, based on discussions with customers and market demand forecasts, we plan to proactively secure infrastructure for future supply capacity. Recently, we announced new investment plans for P&T7 to strengthen advanced packaging capabilities and M17, a new NAND production base. Furthermore, we have announced a mid to long-term plan to create a new domestic semiconductor cluster to prepare for long-term demand beyond Yongin. Going forward, actual fab construction, equipment installation, and production capacity expansion will be pursued in stages comprehensively, considering customer demand visibility, investment efficiency, et cetera. We are planning to prepare for mid to long-term growth opportunities without delay while maintaining CapEx discipline, thereby strengthening both our supply responsiveness and financial soundness. Next, I'd like to speak about the ADR issuance. Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix00:11:59On July 10th, we successfully listed our ADRs on the Nasdaq market in the United States. This ADR offering was the largest ever for a foreign company's IPO in the U.S. This listing holds significance not only from the funding perspective, but also more so as a confirmation of the global market trust in our technological competitiveness and growth potential while broadening our connection points with the next generation computing ecosystem. Building on this, we will strengthen strategic cooperation with major customers and partners and explore new business opportunities. Moreover, through relentless technological innovation, we will contribute to the development of the semiconductor industry and the growth of the AI system. Finally, I will address our goals for financial soundness and shareholder returns. Driven by profits and cash generation capabilities expanded to record levels. Our financial capacity has been further strengthened. Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix00:12:50Meanwhile, as structural growth opportunities in the AI era expand, the scale of investment required to realize these opportunities is also increasing significantly compared to the past. In this environment, we prioritize investments in growth opportunities that can generate high profitability and strategic value. At the same time, we aim to secure a financial structure capable of ensuring stable business operations, even amidst market fluctuations, and through this, we intend to continuously share the resulting outcomes with our shareholders. While investment requirements are expected to increase going forward, we believe that our significantly strengthened cash generation capabilities will allow us to meaningfully expand shareholder returns, all while achieving our investment goals for future growth and maintaining our financial soundness targets. We're currently reviewing various additional execution measures for shareholder returns from multiple angles. Operator00:13:44[Non-english language] Translator00:13:57Now Q&A session will begin. Please press star one, that is star and one, if you have any questions. Questions will be taken according to the order you have pressed the number star one. For cancellation, please press star two, that is star and two on your phone. Operator00:14:15[Non-english content JPMorgan [Non-english content]. Translator00:14:20The first question will be provided by Jay Kwon from JPMorgan. Please go ahead with your question. Jay KwonAnalyst at JPMorgan00:15:05[Non-english content] Translator00:15:08Good morning, and thank you for taking my questions. Recently we see that some big tech companies are considering leasing data centers and more efficient AI models emerging. As a result, there are some concerns that AI infrastructure investment could slow or even decline. Based on the company's talks with customers, how do you see some of the major CSPs AI infrastructure investment evolving? Also based on such outlook, could you also explain the implications for demand for HBM, DRAM, and NAND? Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix00:15:56[Non-english content] Translator00:16:00Thank you for the question. We are well aware of the concerns that investment in AI infrastructure may slow down following news reports of some big tech companies exploring data center leasing and introduction of more efficient AI models. Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix00:16:20[Non-english content] Translator00:16:33We view these developments not as a sign of AI investment slowdown, but more as a transition towards higher utilization of the AI infrastructure that has already been built at scale and as well as accelerated monetization efforts. Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix00:16:51[Non-english content] Translator00:17:08Given that for major CSPs, AI competitiveness is closely tied to their core competitiveness, including search, advertising, cloud services, and software, we believe investments aimed at strengthening AI capabilities are likely to remain solid. Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix00:17:27[Non-english content] Translator00:17:49Likewise, we do not see these more efficient AI models reducing infrastructure demand. Rather, we believe that they will further broaden the AI base, like accessibility and adoption, because as models and systems become more efficient, the same infrastructure can support more users and services. Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix00:18:09[Non-english content] Translator00:18:24It is evidenced by the explosive demand for the recent high-efficiency AI models, which suggest that the higher efficiency is driving broader AI adoption and usage rather than reducing demand for infrastructure. Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix00:18:38[Non-english content] Translator00:18:46This view is also supported by the medium to long-term demand outlook we have discussed with our key customers. Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix00:18:54[Non-english content] Translator00:19:24We expect the CSP's AI-related investment to continue over the medium to long term, and the kind of memory demand being discussed with our customers reflects this trend. Of course, the timing of individual projects may differ due to physical constraints, such as power availability and data center construction. We do believe AI infrastructure investment will remain solid beyond next year, supported by ongoing AI competition among CSPs and continued expansion of AI services. Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix00:19:59[Non-english content] Translator00:20:18We expect memory demand in general to keep expanding, not only for HBM for AI compute, but also for server DRAM to support agentic AI and high-performance, high-capacity NAND to accommodate the expansion of AI services as well as growth in data. Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix00:20:38[Non-english content] Translator00:20:41Thank you very much. We will take the next question. Operator00:20:45[Non-english content] Translator00:20:50The following question will be presented by Rokho Kim from Hana Securities. Please go ahead with your question. Rokho KimAnalyst at Hana Securities00:20:58[Non-english content] Translator00:21:31The company recently presented plans to significantly expand its capacity over the medium to long term. What is the basis for your long-term memory demand outlook that supports this strategy? Does it include demand secured through the long-term agreements? Given the increase in the capacity, there are understandably some concerns in the market about potential oversupply. What is the company's view regarding such concerns? Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix00:22:03[Non-english content] Translator00:22:18Thank you very much for the question. We plan for our medium to long-term capacity strategy based on the structural growth in memory demand, driven by AI expansion, as well as our ongoing discussions with key customers on their longer-term demand. Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix00:22:37[Non-english content] Translator00:22:57Recently, our collaboration with customers is evolving beyond transactional relations into more strategic long-term partnerships. The stronger intent by the customers to reach long-term agreements with suppliers, as well as build partnerships, also it serves as the evidence of the sustained demand coming from the AI ecosystem. Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix00:23:24[Non-english content] SK hynix [Non-english content] Translator00:23:36The capacity expansion that the SK hynix is currently planning for is based on the visibility into market demand that has been secured in our partnerships with the customers. Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix00:23:51[Non-english content] Translator00:24:03Of course, the actual capital investment and production ramp-up will be implemented in phases while considering demand visibility, investment efficiency, as well as other factors. Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix00:24:14[Non-english content] Translator00:24:27Given that our capacity expansion will be executed flexibly in alignment with confirmed customer demand, we do not believe our medium to long-term investment plans will lead to oversupply right away. Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix00:24:43[Non-english content] Translator00:24:43Thank you. Next question please. Operator00:24:47[Non-english content] Translator00:24:52The following question will be presented by Sunwoo Kim from Meritz Securities. Please go ahead with your question. Sunwoo KimAnalyst at Meritz Securities00:25:01[Non-english content] Translator00:25:34My questions are on LTA. The company's memory peers have recently concluded and announced LTAs. While it was briefly addressed in the company's briefing, could you also provide more details on SK hynix's LTA framework such as contract term and pricing structure? Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix00:26:13[Non-english content] Translator00:26:15The LTAs we are discussing with our customers are designed in various forms to be more specific to each customer and their products. While the contract term normally is around five years, specific conditions may vary depending on the customer and product. Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix00:26:33[Non-english content] Translator00:26:52Our pricing structure will also not be uniform. We are discussing with customers to adopt a range of pricing mechanisms that can better respond to price volatility. The objective is to reduce uncertainty arising from short-term market volatility while enhancing long-term business stability for both our customers and SK hynix. Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix00:27:15[Non-english content] Translator00:27:42At the same time, it is equally important to secure effective purchase commitment, given the impact that demand volatility can have on the memory cycle. In addition to long-term volume commitments, the agreements include mechanisms such as deposits that can strengthen contract implementation and demand visibility. The specific terms will differ depending on each customer's requirements and the contract structure. Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix00:28:24[Non-english content] Translator00:28:27Such structure will enable customers to define more reliable long-term procurement plans while allowing us to optimize our investment and production planning based on improved demand visibility. Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix00:28:41[Non-english content] Translator00:29:04While we cannot say how much of our total sales will be covered by LTAs, we intend to maintain it at an appropriate level based on market conditions and customer demand. This approach should enhance the downside resilience of our earnings while maintaining the flexibility to capture incremental demand and growth opportunities when market conditions become more favorable. Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix00:29:30[Non-english content] Translator00:29:55We have already built a solid base of profitability centered on HBM, supported by long-term collaborations with major AI customers like NVIDIA. Looking ahead, we will continue to strengthen our HBM leadership as we try to balance stability and profitability based on the demand visibility and operational flexibility secured through our LTAs. Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix00:30:21[Non-english content] Translator00:30:23Thank you. We'll take the next question. Operator00:30:27[Non-english content] Translator00:30:32The following question will be presented by S. K. Kim from Daiwa Capital Markets. Please go ahead with your question. S. K. KimAnalyst at Daiwa Capital Markets00:30:40[Non-english content] Translator00:31:11Thank you for taking my questions, congratulations on the good performance. My questions are on DRAM. It appears as if DRAM ASP growth in the second quarter fell below market expectations. What are the reasons, and what is the outlook for the second half of the year? Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix00:31:33[Non-english content] Translator00:31:33We manage the sales mix between HBM and conventional DRAM based on customer demand and some medium to long-term product strategy. In the second quarter, shipments of some high value add products were pushed back into the second half, and changes in the product portfolio appeared to have affected our blended ASP. Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix00:32:27[Non-english content] Translator00:32:27These factors are likely to gradually ease in the second half. As HBM4 shipments ramp up in earnest and the 1c nm conventional DRAM shipment increases, we expect bit growth in the second half to be higher than the level in the first half. Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix00:33:02[Non-english content] Translator00:33:05In addition, considering customer demand and the changing product mix, the growing HBM4 sales and the higher contribution from value-add products will have a positive impact on our blended ASP as well. Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix00:33:35[Non-english content] Translator00:33:35This will result in higher shipment volumes and continued improvement in the product mix, which will push up our ASP as well as earnings in the second half. Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix00:34:16[Non-english content] Translator00:34:16When running our sales strategy, instead of focusing on short-term price movements or profitability, we consider a comprehensive set of factors including demand visibility, long-term customer relationships, and supply demand dynamics across individual product segments. Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix00:34:50[Non-english content] Translator00:34:50This principle will remain as we try to capture market growth opportunities while delivering stable and sustainable earnings growth. Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix00:35:05[Non-english content] Translator00:35:05Thank you. Next question, please. Operator00:35:13[Non-english content] Translator00:35:13The following question will be presented by Dong Han from SK Securities. Please go ahead with your question. Dong-hee HanAnalyst at SK Securities00:35:46[Non-english content] Translator00:35:46Thank you. My questions are on HBM. Translator00:35:49Now, some believe that competitors have made rapid progress in HBM recently. What is the competitiveness of our HBM4 and the key differentiators that will enable the company to maintain its leadership in the HBM market? Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix00:36:10[Non-english content] Translator00:36:10The HBM4 competitiveness is completed not only by delivering the required performance, but also by the capability to supply at scale with stable yield and consistent quality. Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix00:37:07[Non-english content] Translator00:37:07SK hynix has consistently demonstrated these capabilities since the HBM2E generation. Our accumulated competitiveness in time to market, product performance, mass production yield, quality, and customer trust are the differentiators that cannot be replicated in a short period of time. Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix00:37:54[Non-english content] Translator00:37:54Building on this foundation, we began mass production of HBM4 for key customers in the second quarter, with the yield and quality today nearing the levels of HBM3E, which is already in the maturity stage. Our current focus is on steadily ramping up production capacity. Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix00:38:24[Non-english content] Translator00:38:24As mentioned earlier, we have also completed HBM4E sample delivery to customers. Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix00:38:48[Non-english content] Translator00:38:48We have applied optimized manufacturing process with proven technology maturity and production stability. Development is underway smoothly in line with our roadmap, aiming at volume production beginning in 2027. Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix00:39:14[Non-english content] Translator00:39:14Not stopping there, we are also proactively preparing next-generation technologies. In addition to hybrid bonding, we are developing IHBM technology to effectively provide thermal dissipation in future products such as HBM5. The IHBM integrates cooling elements within the package and is expected to reduce thermal resistance by more than 30%, improving system stability and operational efficiency in high-performance, high-density AI environments. Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix00:40:42[Non-english content] Translator00:40:42As the AI market continues to expand and AI accelerators become more sophisticated in performance and packaging, we believe customers will place even greater value on partners with proven manufacturing capability, quality, and reliable supply. Translator00:41:00Since HBM is a high-value add product, quality issues can result in significant costs for customers and broad impact on overall system. Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix00:41:15[Non-english content] Translator00:41:15Leveraging our early co-development experience with customers and long-standing strategic partnerships, we will continue to deliver the right products reliably at the right time, while leading the migration to next-generation technologies. This will enable us to sustain our leadership in the HBM market. Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix00:41:58[Non-english content] Translator00:41:58Thank you. We will take the next question. Operator00:42:02[Non-english content] Translator00:42:02The following question will be presented by Nicolas Gaudois from UBS. Please go ahead with your question. Nicolas GaudoisAnalyst at UBS00:42:16Good morning. Thanks for taking my questions. What is the status for HBM price negotiations for 2027? Could you please explain the whole situation regarding the contract discussions, including your outlook for pricing for both HBM3, HBM4, and also HBM4E forthcoming? Thank you. Translator00:42:38[Non-english content] Song Chang-seopHead of NAND Marketing at SK hynix00:43:15[Non-english content] Translator00:43:37Thank you for the question. Discussion is underway for 2027 HBM supply volume and pricing with our key customers, which is progressing smoothly, supported by solid customer demand. Of course, we cannot disclose the contractual terms or pricing details for individual customers. Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix00:44:01[Non-english content] Translator00:44:19With conventional DRAM prices rising sharply in recent months, such market environment may also have some influence on our HBM pricing discussions. Having said that, of course, HBM pricing is not determined solely by conventional DRAM prices. Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix00:44:39[Non-english content] Translator00:45:00Compared with conventional DRAM, HBM requires much greater resources, including more wafer input, advanced manufacturing process, TSV, and packaging capacity. As each generation evolves, customer requirements for performance and quality continue to rise. While product development and qualification become increasingly complex. Kim Woo-hyunCFO at SK hynix00:45:27[Non-english content] Translator00:45:48Our pricing discussions take into account a comprehensive set of factors, including conventional DRAM pricing and market supply demand, the resources and opportunity costs related with HBM production, technical complexity, and the value that our products deliver to our customers. Kim Woo-hyunCFO at SK hynix00:46:10[Non-english content] Translator00:46:25Our objective is to secure appropriate profitability that corresponds to the differentiated value that we provide to the customers while leading the healthy and sustainable growth of the AI ecosystem. Kim Woo-hyunCFO at SK hynix00:46:41[Non-english content] Kim Woo-hyunCFO at SK hynix00:47:10On the back of our accumulated technological leadership, cost competitiveness, stable manufacturing capability, strong trust and collaboration with our customers, we will continue to maintain solid profitability in our HBM business. Through successful product generation migration and continued value creation for customers, we aim to solidify our position as the strategic partner that grows together with our customers in the AI era. Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix00:47:43[Non-english content] Kim Woo-hyunCFO at SK hynix00:47:51Ultimately, our focus remains on delivering sustainable growth and profitability over the long term. Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix00:47:59[Non-english content] Translator00:48:02Thank you. The next question, please. Operator00:48:09[Non-english content] CLSA Korea [Non-english content] Sanjeev Rana [Non-english content] Translator00:48:13The following question will be presented by Sanjeev Rana from CLSA Securities Korea. Please go ahead with your question. Sanjeev RanaAnalyst at CLSA Securities Korea00:48:22Hi. Good morning. Thank you for taking my question. My question is about the production capacity expansion. In addition to the recent announcements of large scale investments in Korea, there is also a growing discussion about expanding overseas production in countries such as the U.S. and Japan. Could you please elaborate on the company's investment strategy and its direction, both in Korea and internationally? Thank you. Translator00:48:50[Non-english content] Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix00:49:09[Non-english content] Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix00:49:23[Non-english content] Translator00:49:29Thank you for the question. In the AI era, technological leadership alone is not enough. The ability to supply the required volume at the right time has also become a critical part of competitiveness. Especially at a time like today, with extreme supply shortage, it is a duty of the supplier to provide the memory product needed for the ecosystem. Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix00:49:57[Non-english content] Translator00:50:09The company's medium to long-term investment direction is that we will make timely investment in accordance with the AI memory demand, while at the same time executing CapEx based on business feasibility and investment efficiency. Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix00:50:27[Non-english content] Translator00:50:40For the medium to long term, we intend to secure additional manufacturing capacity through the most efficient combination of maximizing the utilization of our existing production site and developing new infrastructure where necessary. Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix00:50:56[Non-english content] Translator00:51:09Inside Korea, we will continue to strengthen the Icheon and Yongin as our key production hubs for next generation DRAM and AI memory, while enhancing Cheongju's manufacturing capability for both NAND and advanced packaging. Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix00:51:32[Non-english content] Translator00:51:34The recently announced large scale investment is also part of this strategy to proactively secure the manufacturing base and infrastructure that is needed to support future demand. Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix00:51:47[Non-english content] Translator00:52:03Looking ahead for the future production base, rather than differentiating between domestic or overseas, the basic direction is to make the optimum decision based on a range of factors such as power supply, water, human resources, the supply chain, semiconductor ecosystem, as well as customer accessibility. Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix00:52:32[Non-english content] Translator00:52:42Having said that, at this time, there are no further decisions made in addition to the investment that has already been announced. Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix00:52:51[Non-english content] Translator00:53:04Going forward, the company will continue to try to secure the production base at the right time to respond to customer demand, while continuing to enhance investment efficiency by utilizing existing assets and also considering new investment. Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix00:53:25[Non-english content] Translator00:53:26Thank you. We'll take the next question. Operator00:53:30[Non-english content] Park Seong-hwanHead of Investor Relations at SK hynix00:53:34The following question will be presented by Hyung-keun Ryu from Daishin Securities. Please go ahead with your question. Hyung-keun RyuAnalyst at Daishin Securities00:53:43[Non-english content] Translator00:54:14Now, my questions are on NAND. The expansion in AI inference and demand for KV cache offloading is rapidly increasing the role of enterprise SSDs. Could you also discuss your strategy for different product segments, including QLC SSDs for HDD replacement and high performance SSDs based on SLC mode? Competition in these segments also appears to be intensifying. Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix00:54:47[Non-english content] Translator00:54:59Yes. As the questioner has observed, the AI market is evolving from a training-centric to an inference-centric environment where NAND is rapidly becoming a core component of the AI memory hierarchy. Kim Woo-hyunCFO at SK hynix00:55:16[Non-english content] Translator00:55:27As a result, we also see that demand for NAND is quickly rising, centered on ESSDs, and we believe that this trend is likely to continue. Song Chang-seopHead of NAND Marketing at SK hynix00:55:37[Non-english content] Translator00:55:51At the same time, we believe that the AI storage market cannot be addressed with a single technology. Requirements for latency, throughput, power, capacity, and TCO all differ depending on the customer. Song Chang-seopHead of NAND Marketing at SK hynix00:56:07[Non-english content] Translator00:56:20Customers are not necessarily asking for specific technologies or media. What matters is the ability to reliably deliver the performance and responsiveness required for each workload. Song Chang-seopHead of NAND Marketing at SK hynix00:56:34[Non-english content] Translator00:56:48Our NAND strategy for the AI era, we believe, is not about choosing out of SLC, TLC, or QLC. Rather, it is about providing the optimal storage portfolio that is customized to each customer's workload. Song Chang-seopHead of NAND Marketing at SK hynix00:57:05[Non-english content] Translator00:57:22For example, in applications like AI data lake and HDD replacement, where storage efficiency and cost competitiveness are important, high-capacity QLC-based eSSDs can be the most competitive solution. Accordingly, we are continuing to strengthen our product lineup in this segment. Song Chang-seopHead of NAND Marketing at SK hynix00:57:45[Non-english content] Translator00:57:58At the same time, we are also focusing on developing new tier AI storage solutions to address emerging applications like KV cache offloading and near-GPU storage. Song Chang-seopHead of NAND Marketing at SK hynix00:58:13[Non-english content] Translator00:58:28Rather than focusing on any single NAND technology, SK hynix is developing solutions that optimize the strength of NAND combined with firmware, enabling us to deliver the most efficient performance for each customer workload. Song Chang-seopHead of NAND Marketing at SK hynix00:58:45[Non-english content] Translator00:59:00As a result, we are expanding our portfolio across multiple usages, including high-performance TLC eSSD, high-capacity QLC eSSD, and high-performance SSDs utilizing SLC mode. Song Chang-seopHead of NAND Marketing at SK hynix00:59:17[Non-english content] Translator00:59:29In the end, in the AI era, it will not be a single SSD that will handle all the workload. Instead, AI systems will adopt a storage hierarchy optimized for each workload. Song Chang-seopHead of NAND Marketing at SK hynix00:59:53[Non-english content] Translator00:59:55With a comprehensive storage portfolio spanning all of these segments, SK hynix will proactively address the evolving needs of AI storage while expanding new long-term growth opportunities for our NAND business. Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix01:00:13[Non-english content] Translator01:00:14Thank you. We'll take the next question. Operator01:00:18[Non-english content] Translator01:00:23The following question will be presented by Youngho Ryu from NH Investment & Securities. Please go ahead with your question. Youngho RyuAnalyst at NH Investment & Securities01:00:31[Non-english content] Translator01:00:53Thank you. My question is on the ADRs, which is receiving a lot of market interest. How is the two-way fungibility of ADRs being managed at this time? Also, does the company have any plans to increase the proportion of ADRs outstanding in the future? Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix01:01:12[Non-english content] Translator01:01:37Now, beginning on July 30th, which will be the day after the completion of our stock being listed on the Korea Exchange, the ADRs can be freely converted to the stocks. Conversions of stocks into ADRs may be limited due to the conversion process and the conversion limit as well. Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix01:02:23[Non-english content] Translator01:02:23Based on some cases of Korean companies with DR programs, the conversion of stocks into ADRs may require the issuer to complete some regulatory filing process, which could take several weeks. Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix01:02:45[Non-english content] Translator01:02:45In addition, the total number of ADRs outstanding cannot go over the ADR conversion limit. At present, the conversion limit has been set at 17,790,000 shares, equivalent to the number of shares issued in this ADR offering. Whether to increase the proportion of ADRs will be evaluated after looking into the relevant regulatory environment as well as other factors. Translator01:03:43At this time, no decisions have been made. Thank you. We will take the last question. Operator01:03:53[Non-english content] Park Seong-hwanHead of Investor Relations at SK hynix01:04:00The last question will be presented by Surim Lee from DS Investment & Securities. Please go ahead with your question. Surim LeeAnalyst at DS Investment & Securities01:04:07[Non-english content] Translator01:04:37Thank you for taking my questions. Following the recent sale of the company share in Kioxia, as well as the ADR offering, the company has significantly increased its cash position. Could you discuss your capital allocation strategy? In particular, are there any plans for additional shareholder returns this year? Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix01:05:20[Non-english content] Translator01:05:20The company's capital allocation strategy is now focusing on maintaining the balance among the three goals. Making timely investments to capture the structural growth opportunities in the AI era, preserving a sound financial position, and enhancing shareholder value through shareholder returns. Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix01:05:57[Non-english content] Translator01:05:57With regards to shareholder returns, we do realize that there is strong level of market interest, and we are currently evaluating various options for additional shareholder returns. Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix01:06:09[Non-english content] Translator01:06:29Due to regulatory requirements and procedural restrictions related to the ADR offering, please understand that we cannot disclose any new material information that was not included in the offering document. Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix01:06:53[Non-english content] Translator01:06:53While we cannot provide the specifics regarding the format, size, or timing of any additional shareholder return, we do intend to communicate our plans to the market within the year once they have been finalized. Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix01:07:30[Non-english content] Translator01:07:30Down the road, we will continue to execute investment to support growth in a timely manner, maintain sound financial structure, and pursue the kind of capital allocation strategy that can enhance shareholder value through sustainable cash generation. Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix01:07:56[Non-english content] Translator01:07:56Thank you very much. That concludes the SK hynix 2026 second quarter earnings release conference.Read moreParticipantsExecutivesPark Seong-hwanHead of Investor RelationsSong Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate CenterSong Chang-seopHead of NAND MarketingKim Woo-hyunCFOAnalystsTranslatorJay KwonAnalyst at JPMorganRokho KimAnalyst at Hana SecuritiesSunwoo KimAnalyst at Meritz SecuritiesS. K. KimAnalyst at Daiwa Capital MarketsDong-hee HanAnalyst at SK SecuritiesNicolas GaudoisAnalyst at UBSSanjeev RanaAnalyst at CLSA Securities KoreaHyung-keun RyuAnalyst at Daishin SecuritiesYoungho RyuAnalyst at NH Investment & SecuritiesSurim LeeAnalyst at DS Investment & SecuritiesPowered by Earnings DocumentsSlide DeckPress Release SK hynix Earnings HeadlinesSK hynix Inc. ADR52 minutes ago | wsj.comSK hynix: The Market Missed The Best Part Of Q2 (Rating Upgrade)52 minutes ago | seekingalpha.comLouis Navellier: My #1 AI stock for 2026 (name & ticker inside)Louis Navellier's Stock Grader system helped him flag Nvidia before its 82,000% run and has identified the top S&P 500 stock for 12 years running—and today, he's giving away his #1 AI stock pick for 2026, free. This company's sales are up 28% year over year, it holds over 30,000 patents in wireless and video technology, and it just earned an A-rating in his proprietary Stock Grader system that has cost him $9 million to build and maintain.July 29 at 1:00 AM | InvestorPlace (Ad)SK Hynix misses revenue and profit estimates despite record margins57 minutes ago | proactiveinvestors.comAsian Chip Stocks Drop As SK Hynix Earnings Disappoint1 hour ago | forbes.comAnalyst Says AI Is Making SK Hynix Less Cyclical—and More Valuable2 hours ago | benzinga.comSee More SK hynix Headlines Get Earnings Announcements in your inboxWant to stay updated on the latest earnings announcements and upcoming reports for companies like SK hynix? Sign up for Earnings360's daily newsletter to receive timely earnings updates on SK hynix and other key companies, straight to your email. Email Address About SK hynixSK hynix (NASDAQ:SKHY) is a South Korea-based semiconductor company that develops, manufactures, and sells memory products used in a wide range of electronic devices and computing systems. Its portfolio includes DRAM, NAND flash, and other memory solutions that support applications such as servers, PCs, mobile devices, and consumer electronics. The company serves customers globally through the semiconductor supply chain and is recognized as one of the major memory chip producers in the industry. SK hynix has a long operating history in memory semiconductors and continues to focus on advanced memory technologies designed to improve performance, capacity, and power efficiency. In addition to standard memory products, SK hynix also develops solutions for data centers, enterprise storage, and emerging applications that require high-speed data processing. The company is headquartered in Icheon, South Korea, and operates as part of the broader SK Group.View SK hynix ProfileRead more More Earnings Resources from MarketBeat Earnings Tools Today's Earnings Tomorrow's Earnings Next Week's Earnings Upcoming Earnings Calls Earnings Newsletter Earnings Call Transcripts Earnings Beats & Misses Corporate Guidance Earnings Screener Latest Articles These 3 Stocks Have Soared in 2026—Can They Keep Climbing?Hasbro’s Earnings Beat Shows Why This Is No Longer Just a Toy StoryRambus: Another AI Phoenix Ready to Rise From the Ashes of CorrectionAmkor Sells Off After Earnings—Why Weak Guidance Isn't the Real StoryWestern Digital’s Earnings Will Test Whether Its AI Rally Has More RoomIs the Market Mispricing ServiceNow's AI Future?Whirlpool’s Report May Show How Frozen the Housing Market Really Is Upcoming Earnings Ferrari (7/30/2026)Air Products and Chemicals (7/30/2026)ArcelorMittal (7/30/2026)Vale (7/30/2026)Mastercard (7/30/2026)Apple (7/30/2026)ASE Technology (7/30/2026)Monolithic Power Systems (7/30/2026)CRH (7/30/2026)Quanta Services (7/30/2026) Unlock superior investment research and tools. 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PresentationSkip to Participants Park Seong-hwanHead of Investor Relations at SK hynix00:00:00Good morning. Thank you for your participation in SK hynix earnings release conference call. Today, we will begin with SK hynix's presentation and move on to a Q&A session. If you have any questions, please press star one, that is star and one on your phone. Note that presentations will be interpreted simultaneously, and the Q&A session will be consecutively interpreted. With that, we will now begin SK hynix earnings release conference call for second quarter of 2026. Good morning, afternoon, and evening. This is Park Seong-hwan, Head of IR at SK hynix. Welcome to the SK hynix 2026 second quarter earnings release conference call. Allow me to introduce the executives present here with me today. Park Seong-hwanHead of Investor Relations at SK hynix00:00:49We are joined by President of Corporate Center, Song Hyeon-jong, CFO, Kim Woo-hyun, Head of DRAM Marketing, Park Joon-deok, Head of NAND Marketing, Song Chang-seop, and Head of HBM Sales and Marketing, Kim Ki-tae. Let me issue a disclaimer that our second quarter results included in this conference call are consolidated figures and provisional in nature, as the external auditor's review has not yet been completed. Accordingly, they remain subject to change. In addition, forward-looking statements, including market outlook and the company's plans may vary depending on changes in macroeconomic and market circumstances. With that, we will now begin SK hynix earnings release conference call for second quarter of 2026. President Song Hyeon-jong will first present the earnings, followed by the company's future plans and market outlook, and a Q&A session with the attending executives. Good morning, everyone. Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix00:01:43This is Song Hyeon-jong, President of Corporate Center. Allow me to first introduce SK hynix's performance for the second quarter of 2026. In the second quarter, strong demand driven by the expansion of AI infrastructure investment and a tight supply environment continued, leading to a sustained upward trend in prices. Both DRAM and NAND recorded meaningful price increases following the previous quarter, with AI-related products such as server DRAM and enterprise SSDs driving this growth. As a result, second quarter revenue increased by 51% quarter-on-quarter and 257% year-on-year, reaching KRW 79.3 trillion, marking a record high revenue following the previous quarter. In DRAM, amidst limited supply capabilities, we expanded sales centered on HBM3E and AI server DRAM products, achieving high single-digit percent increase in bit shipments in line with our guidance. In particular, sales of LPDDR products for servers, including SOCAMM2, grew significantly. Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix00:02:48ASP rose by approximately 30%, driven by the continued price strength in conventional DRAM. In NAND, from a low base of reduced shipments in the first quarter and with the expansion of enterprise SSD sales, we recorded a mid-teen percent increase in bit shipments in line with our guidance. Our enterprise SSD revenue increased twofold from that of the previous quarter, and Solidigm's revenue from high-capacity enterprise SSDs of 30 TB and above also expanded more than threefold from that of last quarter. ASP increased by mid 50% due to strong pricing across all products. With price increases across both DRAM and NAND segments and improvement in stock cost structure, second quarter operating income reached KRW 60.5 trillion, up 61% quarter-on-quarter and 557% year-on-year. Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix00:03:40Operating margin also improved by 5 percentage points from that of the previous quarter to record 76%, achieving all-time highs for both operating income and operating margin. Second quarter depreciation and amortization amounted to KRW 4 trillion. EBITDA stood at KRW 64.6 trillion with an EBITDA margin of 81%. Net non-operating profit reached KRW 62.2 trillion, including foreign exchange-related net gains of KRW 1.1 trillion due to the rising exchange rate and gains from the sale and valuation of investment assets totaling KRW 63.3 trillion. Consequently, pre-tax profit was KRW 122.7 trillion, net profit was KRW 93.9 trillion, and the net profit margin was 118%. As of the end of the second quarter, our cash and cash equivalents, including short-term investments, stood at KRW 88 trillion, an increase of KRW 33.6 trillion from the end of the previous quarter. Interest-bearing debt decreased by KRW 0.7 trillion-KRW 18.6 trillion. Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix00:04:49Accordingly, net cash expanded to KRW 69.4 trillion, and debt-to-equity ratio improved by 5 percentage points from the previous quarter end to 7%. Now let me share our market outlook. AI technology is evolving into an agentic form that performs complex tasks on behalf of users for extended periods. As AI spreads across various services such as search, coding, and productivity tools, the scope of demand is widening from a memory perspective. Alongside high-performance memory like HBM, which is necessary for improving AI server performance and expanding system scale, demand for server DRAM to support agent services is also increasing. Additionally, the role of high-performance enterprise SSDs is widening for more efficient processing of continuously generated AI outputs. We are witnessing a structural shift in demand where both AI memory and conventional memory are growing together. Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix00:05:44As AI models improve and software optimization advances, the computational volume and cost per individual task are continuously decreasing. We anticipate that these improvements in efficiency will not dampen overall infrastructure demand. Rather, they will lower price and adoption barriers for AI services, thereby expanding the user base and scope of applications. Major big tech customers are expanding infrastructure investments due to increased AI service usage and shortage of computing capacity. Based on the growth in revenue and profits generated from AI services, they appear to be continuing to expand their memory procurement. In fact, our major customers are still requesting more memory supply. In PC and mobile applications Temporary sales adjustments are occurring due to difficulties in securing memory. We expect these segments to gradually regain growth momentum as supply shortage eases and AI services become more widely adopted. Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix00:06:40Amidst constrained supply conditions, DRAM and NAND demand are projected to grow by mid-20% and high teen percent respectively. Should supply constraints ease going forward, the market's growth trajectory could expand further as latent demand is met. On the supply side, however, it appears difficult for the supply-demand balance to improve meaningfully in the near term. This is due to the increasing complexity of advanced processes applied to HBM and AI server memory, as well as lead times required for constructing new production facilities. With tight supply-demand conditions expected to persist for a considerable period, discussions regarding multi-year contracts to secure mid to long-term supply stability with customers are ongoing. To date, we have concluded LTA negotiations with around 10 customers, including our key customers, and are continuing further discussions with our major industry players. These LTAs represent strategic partnerships that go beyond simple volume supply. Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix00:07:40They are designed to secure mid to long-term supply stability and facilitate the development of next generation memory aligned with our customers' technology roadmaps. While specific pricing structures vary depending on the customer and product characteristics, they are designed to address price volatility. Furthermore, financial mechanisms such as deposits are incorporated to support contract fulfillment and enhance the visibility and reliability of customers' mid to long-term demand plans. Building on this, we will enhance the efficiency of our investments and production operations, thereby strengthening the foundation for mid to long-term business stability and sustainable growth. Next, I will discuss the company's plans. For the third quarter, DRAM shipments are expected to increase by approximately 10% from that of Q2 as we actively respond to demand with focus on server products. For NAND, we plan bit shipment increase of low single-digit percent quarter-on-quarter. Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix00:08:34As AI models become more sophisticated, the performance levels required for memory are rising even further, and the scope of competitiveness is expanding beyond the design of individual memory products to include system architecture and packaging technologies. Leveraging our competitive portfolio of DRAM and NAND, including HBM, and our co-development capabilities with customers, we will lead memory innovation from a system level. First, regarding HBM4, through continuous product optimization, we have demonstrated differentiated technological competitiveness by achieving the data processing speeds required by customers, while attaining industry-leading power efficiency and cost competitiveness. We began mass production shipments in Q2 and plan full-fledged ramp up of production in the second half of the year. For HBM4E, we supply samples to major customer in the first half of the year. Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix00:09:22HBM4E is produced with the optimal tech node that is mature and has proven mass production stability, and we expect the subsequent development schedule to proceed smoothly. Based on our comprehensive competitiveness, which includes stable supply capabilities and cost competitiveness backed by superior quality and high yields, as well as industry-leading performance, we will continue to maintain our HBM leadership. Additionally, for DRAM, we have fully commenced the supply of SOCAMM2 products based on the 1z nm process in the second quarter. Moving forward, we will optimize our product lineup in alignment with customer development schedules and prepare for sample shipments to expand our customer base. For NAND, we will accelerate the transition to advanced nodes and strengthen our portfolio with a focus on high-capacity, high-performance products to meet market demand. Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix00:10:09In the previous quarter, our 321-layer product accounted for the largest proportion of NAND production, and we plan to expand the share within our domestic capacity to the 50% level by the end of the year as planned. In a market situation where supply-demand imbalances persist, stable supply capability, the ability to deliver the volumes customers want in a timely manner, is emerging as a core business competitiveness alongside technological proficiency. Therefore, to respond to robust customer demand and mid to long-term growth opportunities, we are continuing investment plans to expand our production capacity. In the short term, to enhance our supply responsiveness, we are pulling forward the mass production schedule for M15X and proceeding with investments to rapidly expand production capacity following the clean room opening of the Yongin Phase 1 in early 2027. Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix00:11:01Due to the schedule acceleration and investment expansion, our 2026 CapEx is expected to reach the high KRW 40 trillion range. In the mid to long term, based on discussions with customers and market demand forecasts, we plan to proactively secure infrastructure for future supply capacity. Recently, we announced new investment plans for P&T7 to strengthen advanced packaging capabilities and M17, a new NAND production base. Furthermore, we have announced a mid to long-term plan to create a new domestic semiconductor cluster to prepare for long-term demand beyond Yongin. Going forward, actual fab construction, equipment installation, and production capacity expansion will be pursued in stages comprehensively, considering customer demand visibility, investment efficiency, et cetera. We are planning to prepare for mid to long-term growth opportunities without delay while maintaining CapEx discipline, thereby strengthening both our supply responsiveness and financial soundness. Next, I'd like to speak about the ADR issuance. Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix00:11:59On July 10th, we successfully listed our ADRs on the Nasdaq market in the United States. This ADR offering was the largest ever for a foreign company's IPO in the U.S. This listing holds significance not only from the funding perspective, but also more so as a confirmation of the global market trust in our technological competitiveness and growth potential while broadening our connection points with the next generation computing ecosystem. Building on this, we will strengthen strategic cooperation with major customers and partners and explore new business opportunities. Moreover, through relentless technological innovation, we will contribute to the development of the semiconductor industry and the growth of the AI system. Finally, I will address our goals for financial soundness and shareholder returns. Driven by profits and cash generation capabilities expanded to record levels. Our financial capacity has been further strengthened. Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix00:12:50Meanwhile, as structural growth opportunities in the AI era expand, the scale of investment required to realize these opportunities is also increasing significantly compared to the past. In this environment, we prioritize investments in growth opportunities that can generate high profitability and strategic value. At the same time, we aim to secure a financial structure capable of ensuring stable business operations, even amidst market fluctuations, and through this, we intend to continuously share the resulting outcomes with our shareholders. While investment requirements are expected to increase going forward, we believe that our significantly strengthened cash generation capabilities will allow us to meaningfully expand shareholder returns, all while achieving our investment goals for future growth and maintaining our financial soundness targets. We're currently reviewing various additional execution measures for shareholder returns from multiple angles. Operator00:13:44[Non-english language] Translator00:13:57Now Q&A session will begin. Please press star one, that is star and one, if you have any questions. Questions will be taken according to the order you have pressed the number star one. For cancellation, please press star two, that is star and two on your phone. Operator00:14:15[Non-english content JPMorgan [Non-english content]. Translator00:14:20The first question will be provided by Jay Kwon from JPMorgan. Please go ahead with your question. Jay KwonAnalyst at JPMorgan00:15:05[Non-english content] Translator00:15:08Good morning, and thank you for taking my questions. Recently we see that some big tech companies are considering leasing data centers and more efficient AI models emerging. As a result, there are some concerns that AI infrastructure investment could slow or even decline. Based on the company's talks with customers, how do you see some of the major CSPs AI infrastructure investment evolving? Also based on such outlook, could you also explain the implications for demand for HBM, DRAM, and NAND? Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix00:15:56[Non-english content] Translator00:16:00Thank you for the question. We are well aware of the concerns that investment in AI infrastructure may slow down following news reports of some big tech companies exploring data center leasing and introduction of more efficient AI models. Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix00:16:20[Non-english content] Translator00:16:33We view these developments not as a sign of AI investment slowdown, but more as a transition towards higher utilization of the AI infrastructure that has already been built at scale and as well as accelerated monetization efforts. Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix00:16:51[Non-english content] Translator00:17:08Given that for major CSPs, AI competitiveness is closely tied to their core competitiveness, including search, advertising, cloud services, and software, we believe investments aimed at strengthening AI capabilities are likely to remain solid. Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix00:17:27[Non-english content] Translator00:17:49Likewise, we do not see these more efficient AI models reducing infrastructure demand. Rather, we believe that they will further broaden the AI base, like accessibility and adoption, because as models and systems become more efficient, the same infrastructure can support more users and services. Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix00:18:09[Non-english content] Translator00:18:24It is evidenced by the explosive demand for the recent high-efficiency AI models, which suggest that the higher efficiency is driving broader AI adoption and usage rather than reducing demand for infrastructure. Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix00:18:38[Non-english content] Translator00:18:46This view is also supported by the medium to long-term demand outlook we have discussed with our key customers. Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix00:18:54[Non-english content] Translator00:19:24We expect the CSP's AI-related investment to continue over the medium to long term, and the kind of memory demand being discussed with our customers reflects this trend. Of course, the timing of individual projects may differ due to physical constraints, such as power availability and data center construction. We do believe AI infrastructure investment will remain solid beyond next year, supported by ongoing AI competition among CSPs and continued expansion of AI services. Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix00:19:59[Non-english content] Translator00:20:18We expect memory demand in general to keep expanding, not only for HBM for AI compute, but also for server DRAM to support agentic AI and high-performance, high-capacity NAND to accommodate the expansion of AI services as well as growth in data. Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix00:20:38[Non-english content] Translator00:20:41Thank you very much. We will take the next question. Operator00:20:45[Non-english content] Translator00:20:50The following question will be presented by Rokho Kim from Hana Securities. Please go ahead with your question. Rokho KimAnalyst at Hana Securities00:20:58[Non-english content] Translator00:21:31The company recently presented plans to significantly expand its capacity over the medium to long term. What is the basis for your long-term memory demand outlook that supports this strategy? Does it include demand secured through the long-term agreements? Given the increase in the capacity, there are understandably some concerns in the market about potential oversupply. What is the company's view regarding such concerns? Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix00:22:03[Non-english content] Translator00:22:18Thank you very much for the question. We plan for our medium to long-term capacity strategy based on the structural growth in memory demand, driven by AI expansion, as well as our ongoing discussions with key customers on their longer-term demand. Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix00:22:37[Non-english content] Translator00:22:57Recently, our collaboration with customers is evolving beyond transactional relations into more strategic long-term partnerships. The stronger intent by the customers to reach long-term agreements with suppliers, as well as build partnerships, also it serves as the evidence of the sustained demand coming from the AI ecosystem. Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix00:23:24[Non-english content] SK hynix [Non-english content] Translator00:23:36The capacity expansion that the SK hynix is currently planning for is based on the visibility into market demand that has been secured in our partnerships with the customers. Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix00:23:51[Non-english content] Translator00:24:03Of course, the actual capital investment and production ramp-up will be implemented in phases while considering demand visibility, investment efficiency, as well as other factors. Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix00:24:14[Non-english content] Translator00:24:27Given that our capacity expansion will be executed flexibly in alignment with confirmed customer demand, we do not believe our medium to long-term investment plans will lead to oversupply right away. Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix00:24:43[Non-english content] Translator00:24:43Thank you. Next question please. Operator00:24:47[Non-english content] Translator00:24:52The following question will be presented by Sunwoo Kim from Meritz Securities. Please go ahead with your question. Sunwoo KimAnalyst at Meritz Securities00:25:01[Non-english content] Translator00:25:34My questions are on LTA. The company's memory peers have recently concluded and announced LTAs. While it was briefly addressed in the company's briefing, could you also provide more details on SK hynix's LTA framework such as contract term and pricing structure? Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix00:26:13[Non-english content] Translator00:26:15The LTAs we are discussing with our customers are designed in various forms to be more specific to each customer and their products. While the contract term normally is around five years, specific conditions may vary depending on the customer and product. Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix00:26:33[Non-english content] Translator00:26:52Our pricing structure will also not be uniform. We are discussing with customers to adopt a range of pricing mechanisms that can better respond to price volatility. The objective is to reduce uncertainty arising from short-term market volatility while enhancing long-term business stability for both our customers and SK hynix. Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix00:27:15[Non-english content] Translator00:27:42At the same time, it is equally important to secure effective purchase commitment, given the impact that demand volatility can have on the memory cycle. In addition to long-term volume commitments, the agreements include mechanisms such as deposits that can strengthen contract implementation and demand visibility. The specific terms will differ depending on each customer's requirements and the contract structure. Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix00:28:24[Non-english content] Translator00:28:27Such structure will enable customers to define more reliable long-term procurement plans while allowing us to optimize our investment and production planning based on improved demand visibility. Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix00:28:41[Non-english content] Translator00:29:04While we cannot say how much of our total sales will be covered by LTAs, we intend to maintain it at an appropriate level based on market conditions and customer demand. This approach should enhance the downside resilience of our earnings while maintaining the flexibility to capture incremental demand and growth opportunities when market conditions become more favorable. Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix00:29:30[Non-english content] Translator00:29:55We have already built a solid base of profitability centered on HBM, supported by long-term collaborations with major AI customers like NVIDIA. Looking ahead, we will continue to strengthen our HBM leadership as we try to balance stability and profitability based on the demand visibility and operational flexibility secured through our LTAs. Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix00:30:21[Non-english content] Translator00:30:23Thank you. We'll take the next question. Operator00:30:27[Non-english content] Translator00:30:32The following question will be presented by S. K. Kim from Daiwa Capital Markets. Please go ahead with your question. S. K. KimAnalyst at Daiwa Capital Markets00:30:40[Non-english content] Translator00:31:11Thank you for taking my questions, congratulations on the good performance. My questions are on DRAM. It appears as if DRAM ASP growth in the second quarter fell below market expectations. What are the reasons, and what is the outlook for the second half of the year? Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix00:31:33[Non-english content] Translator00:31:33We manage the sales mix between HBM and conventional DRAM based on customer demand and some medium to long-term product strategy. In the second quarter, shipments of some high value add products were pushed back into the second half, and changes in the product portfolio appeared to have affected our blended ASP. Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix00:32:27[Non-english content] Translator00:32:27These factors are likely to gradually ease in the second half. As HBM4 shipments ramp up in earnest and the 1c nm conventional DRAM shipment increases, we expect bit growth in the second half to be higher than the level in the first half. Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix00:33:02[Non-english content] Translator00:33:05In addition, considering customer demand and the changing product mix, the growing HBM4 sales and the higher contribution from value-add products will have a positive impact on our blended ASP as well. Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix00:33:35[Non-english content] Translator00:33:35This will result in higher shipment volumes and continued improvement in the product mix, which will push up our ASP as well as earnings in the second half. Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix00:34:16[Non-english content] Translator00:34:16When running our sales strategy, instead of focusing on short-term price movements or profitability, we consider a comprehensive set of factors including demand visibility, long-term customer relationships, and supply demand dynamics across individual product segments. Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix00:34:50[Non-english content] Translator00:34:50This principle will remain as we try to capture market growth opportunities while delivering stable and sustainable earnings growth. Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix00:35:05[Non-english content] Translator00:35:05Thank you. Next question, please. Operator00:35:13[Non-english content] Translator00:35:13The following question will be presented by Dong Han from SK Securities. Please go ahead with your question. Dong-hee HanAnalyst at SK Securities00:35:46[Non-english content] Translator00:35:46Thank you. My questions are on HBM. Translator00:35:49Now, some believe that competitors have made rapid progress in HBM recently. What is the competitiveness of our HBM4 and the key differentiators that will enable the company to maintain its leadership in the HBM market? Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix00:36:10[Non-english content] Translator00:36:10The HBM4 competitiveness is completed not only by delivering the required performance, but also by the capability to supply at scale with stable yield and consistent quality. Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix00:37:07[Non-english content] Translator00:37:07SK hynix has consistently demonstrated these capabilities since the HBM2E generation. Our accumulated competitiveness in time to market, product performance, mass production yield, quality, and customer trust are the differentiators that cannot be replicated in a short period of time. Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix00:37:54[Non-english content] Translator00:37:54Building on this foundation, we began mass production of HBM4 for key customers in the second quarter, with the yield and quality today nearing the levels of HBM3E, which is already in the maturity stage. Our current focus is on steadily ramping up production capacity. Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix00:38:24[Non-english content] Translator00:38:24As mentioned earlier, we have also completed HBM4E sample delivery to customers. Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix00:38:48[Non-english content] Translator00:38:48We have applied optimized manufacturing process with proven technology maturity and production stability. Development is underway smoothly in line with our roadmap, aiming at volume production beginning in 2027. Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix00:39:14[Non-english content] Translator00:39:14Not stopping there, we are also proactively preparing next-generation technologies. In addition to hybrid bonding, we are developing IHBM technology to effectively provide thermal dissipation in future products such as HBM5. The IHBM integrates cooling elements within the package and is expected to reduce thermal resistance by more than 30%, improving system stability and operational efficiency in high-performance, high-density AI environments. Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix00:40:42[Non-english content] Translator00:40:42As the AI market continues to expand and AI accelerators become more sophisticated in performance and packaging, we believe customers will place even greater value on partners with proven manufacturing capability, quality, and reliable supply. Translator00:41:00Since HBM is a high-value add product, quality issues can result in significant costs for customers and broad impact on overall system. Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix00:41:15[Non-english content] Translator00:41:15Leveraging our early co-development experience with customers and long-standing strategic partnerships, we will continue to deliver the right products reliably at the right time, while leading the migration to next-generation technologies. This will enable us to sustain our leadership in the HBM market. Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix00:41:58[Non-english content] Translator00:41:58Thank you. We will take the next question. Operator00:42:02[Non-english content] Translator00:42:02The following question will be presented by Nicolas Gaudois from UBS. Please go ahead with your question. Nicolas GaudoisAnalyst at UBS00:42:16Good morning. Thanks for taking my questions. What is the status for HBM price negotiations for 2027? Could you please explain the whole situation regarding the contract discussions, including your outlook for pricing for both HBM3, HBM4, and also HBM4E forthcoming? Thank you. Translator00:42:38[Non-english content] Song Chang-seopHead of NAND Marketing at SK hynix00:43:15[Non-english content] Translator00:43:37Thank you for the question. Discussion is underway for 2027 HBM supply volume and pricing with our key customers, which is progressing smoothly, supported by solid customer demand. Of course, we cannot disclose the contractual terms or pricing details for individual customers. Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix00:44:01[Non-english content] Translator00:44:19With conventional DRAM prices rising sharply in recent months, such market environment may also have some influence on our HBM pricing discussions. Having said that, of course, HBM pricing is not determined solely by conventional DRAM prices. Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix00:44:39[Non-english content] Translator00:45:00Compared with conventional DRAM, HBM requires much greater resources, including more wafer input, advanced manufacturing process, TSV, and packaging capacity. As each generation evolves, customer requirements for performance and quality continue to rise. While product development and qualification become increasingly complex. Kim Woo-hyunCFO at SK hynix00:45:27[Non-english content] Translator00:45:48Our pricing discussions take into account a comprehensive set of factors, including conventional DRAM pricing and market supply demand, the resources and opportunity costs related with HBM production, technical complexity, and the value that our products deliver to our customers. Kim Woo-hyunCFO at SK hynix00:46:10[Non-english content] Translator00:46:25Our objective is to secure appropriate profitability that corresponds to the differentiated value that we provide to the customers while leading the healthy and sustainable growth of the AI ecosystem. Kim Woo-hyunCFO at SK hynix00:46:41[Non-english content] Kim Woo-hyunCFO at SK hynix00:47:10On the back of our accumulated technological leadership, cost competitiveness, stable manufacturing capability, strong trust and collaboration with our customers, we will continue to maintain solid profitability in our HBM business. Through successful product generation migration and continued value creation for customers, we aim to solidify our position as the strategic partner that grows together with our customers in the AI era. Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix00:47:43[Non-english content] Kim Woo-hyunCFO at SK hynix00:47:51Ultimately, our focus remains on delivering sustainable growth and profitability over the long term. Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix00:47:59[Non-english content] Translator00:48:02Thank you. The next question, please. Operator00:48:09[Non-english content] CLSA Korea [Non-english content] Sanjeev Rana [Non-english content] Translator00:48:13The following question will be presented by Sanjeev Rana from CLSA Securities Korea. Please go ahead with your question. Sanjeev RanaAnalyst at CLSA Securities Korea00:48:22Hi. Good morning. Thank you for taking my question. My question is about the production capacity expansion. In addition to the recent announcements of large scale investments in Korea, there is also a growing discussion about expanding overseas production in countries such as the U.S. and Japan. Could you please elaborate on the company's investment strategy and its direction, both in Korea and internationally? Thank you. Translator00:48:50[Non-english content] Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix00:49:09[Non-english content] Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix00:49:23[Non-english content] Translator00:49:29Thank you for the question. In the AI era, technological leadership alone is not enough. The ability to supply the required volume at the right time has also become a critical part of competitiveness. Especially at a time like today, with extreme supply shortage, it is a duty of the supplier to provide the memory product needed for the ecosystem. Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix00:49:57[Non-english content] Translator00:50:09The company's medium to long-term investment direction is that we will make timely investment in accordance with the AI memory demand, while at the same time executing CapEx based on business feasibility and investment efficiency. Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix00:50:27[Non-english content] Translator00:50:40For the medium to long term, we intend to secure additional manufacturing capacity through the most efficient combination of maximizing the utilization of our existing production site and developing new infrastructure where necessary. Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix00:50:56[Non-english content] Translator00:51:09Inside Korea, we will continue to strengthen the Icheon and Yongin as our key production hubs for next generation DRAM and AI memory, while enhancing Cheongju's manufacturing capability for both NAND and advanced packaging. Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix00:51:32[Non-english content] Translator00:51:34The recently announced large scale investment is also part of this strategy to proactively secure the manufacturing base and infrastructure that is needed to support future demand. Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix00:51:47[Non-english content] Translator00:52:03Looking ahead for the future production base, rather than differentiating between domestic or overseas, the basic direction is to make the optimum decision based on a range of factors such as power supply, water, human resources, the supply chain, semiconductor ecosystem, as well as customer accessibility. Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix00:52:32[Non-english content] Translator00:52:42Having said that, at this time, there are no further decisions made in addition to the investment that has already been announced. Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix00:52:51[Non-english content] Translator00:53:04Going forward, the company will continue to try to secure the production base at the right time to respond to customer demand, while continuing to enhance investment efficiency by utilizing existing assets and also considering new investment. Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix00:53:25[Non-english content] Translator00:53:26Thank you. We'll take the next question. Operator00:53:30[Non-english content] Park Seong-hwanHead of Investor Relations at SK hynix00:53:34The following question will be presented by Hyung-keun Ryu from Daishin Securities. Please go ahead with your question. Hyung-keun RyuAnalyst at Daishin Securities00:53:43[Non-english content] Translator00:54:14Now, my questions are on NAND. The expansion in AI inference and demand for KV cache offloading is rapidly increasing the role of enterprise SSDs. Could you also discuss your strategy for different product segments, including QLC SSDs for HDD replacement and high performance SSDs based on SLC mode? Competition in these segments also appears to be intensifying. Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix00:54:47[Non-english content] Translator00:54:59Yes. As the questioner has observed, the AI market is evolving from a training-centric to an inference-centric environment where NAND is rapidly becoming a core component of the AI memory hierarchy. Kim Woo-hyunCFO at SK hynix00:55:16[Non-english content] Translator00:55:27As a result, we also see that demand for NAND is quickly rising, centered on ESSDs, and we believe that this trend is likely to continue. Song Chang-seopHead of NAND Marketing at SK hynix00:55:37[Non-english content] Translator00:55:51At the same time, we believe that the AI storage market cannot be addressed with a single technology. Requirements for latency, throughput, power, capacity, and TCO all differ depending on the customer. Song Chang-seopHead of NAND Marketing at SK hynix00:56:07[Non-english content] Translator00:56:20Customers are not necessarily asking for specific technologies or media. What matters is the ability to reliably deliver the performance and responsiveness required for each workload. Song Chang-seopHead of NAND Marketing at SK hynix00:56:34[Non-english content] Translator00:56:48Our NAND strategy for the AI era, we believe, is not about choosing out of SLC, TLC, or QLC. Rather, it is about providing the optimal storage portfolio that is customized to each customer's workload. Song Chang-seopHead of NAND Marketing at SK hynix00:57:05[Non-english content] Translator00:57:22For example, in applications like AI data lake and HDD replacement, where storage efficiency and cost competitiveness are important, high-capacity QLC-based eSSDs can be the most competitive solution. Accordingly, we are continuing to strengthen our product lineup in this segment. Song Chang-seopHead of NAND Marketing at SK hynix00:57:45[Non-english content] Translator00:57:58At the same time, we are also focusing on developing new tier AI storage solutions to address emerging applications like KV cache offloading and near-GPU storage. Song Chang-seopHead of NAND Marketing at SK hynix00:58:13[Non-english content] Translator00:58:28Rather than focusing on any single NAND technology, SK hynix is developing solutions that optimize the strength of NAND combined with firmware, enabling us to deliver the most efficient performance for each customer workload. Song Chang-seopHead of NAND Marketing at SK hynix00:58:45[Non-english content] Translator00:59:00As a result, we are expanding our portfolio across multiple usages, including high-performance TLC eSSD, high-capacity QLC eSSD, and high-performance SSDs utilizing SLC mode. Song Chang-seopHead of NAND Marketing at SK hynix00:59:17[Non-english content] Translator00:59:29In the end, in the AI era, it will not be a single SSD that will handle all the workload. Instead, AI systems will adopt a storage hierarchy optimized for each workload. Song Chang-seopHead of NAND Marketing at SK hynix00:59:53[Non-english content] Translator00:59:55With a comprehensive storage portfolio spanning all of these segments, SK hynix will proactively address the evolving needs of AI storage while expanding new long-term growth opportunities for our NAND business. Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix01:00:13[Non-english content] Translator01:00:14Thank you. We'll take the next question. Operator01:00:18[Non-english content] Translator01:00:23The following question will be presented by Youngho Ryu from NH Investment & Securities. Please go ahead with your question. Youngho RyuAnalyst at NH Investment & Securities01:00:31[Non-english content] Translator01:00:53Thank you. My question is on the ADRs, which is receiving a lot of market interest. How is the two-way fungibility of ADRs being managed at this time? Also, does the company have any plans to increase the proportion of ADRs outstanding in the future? Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix01:01:12[Non-english content] Translator01:01:37Now, beginning on July 30th, which will be the day after the completion of our stock being listed on the Korea Exchange, the ADRs can be freely converted to the stocks. Conversions of stocks into ADRs may be limited due to the conversion process and the conversion limit as well. Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix01:02:23[Non-english content] Translator01:02:23Based on some cases of Korean companies with DR programs, the conversion of stocks into ADRs may require the issuer to complete some regulatory filing process, which could take several weeks. Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix01:02:45[Non-english content] Translator01:02:45In addition, the total number of ADRs outstanding cannot go over the ADR conversion limit. At present, the conversion limit has been set at 17,790,000 shares, equivalent to the number of shares issued in this ADR offering. Whether to increase the proportion of ADRs will be evaluated after looking into the relevant regulatory environment as well as other factors. Translator01:03:43At this time, no decisions have been made. Thank you. We will take the last question. Operator01:03:53[Non-english content] Park Seong-hwanHead of Investor Relations at SK hynix01:04:00The last question will be presented by Surim Lee from DS Investment & Securities. Please go ahead with your question. Surim LeeAnalyst at DS Investment & Securities01:04:07[Non-english content] Translator01:04:37Thank you for taking my questions. Following the recent sale of the company share in Kioxia, as well as the ADR offering, the company has significantly increased its cash position. Could you discuss your capital allocation strategy? In particular, are there any plans for additional shareholder returns this year? Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix01:05:20[Non-english content] Translator01:05:20The company's capital allocation strategy is now focusing on maintaining the balance among the three goals. Making timely investments to capture the structural growth opportunities in the AI era, preserving a sound financial position, and enhancing shareholder value through shareholder returns. Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix01:05:57[Non-english content] Translator01:05:57With regards to shareholder returns, we do realize that there is strong level of market interest, and we are currently evaluating various options for additional shareholder returns. Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix01:06:09[Non-english content] Translator01:06:29Due to regulatory requirements and procedural restrictions related to the ADR offering, please understand that we cannot disclose any new material information that was not included in the offering document. Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix01:06:53[Non-english content] Translator01:06:53While we cannot provide the specifics regarding the format, size, or timing of any additional shareholder return, we do intend to communicate our plans to the market within the year once they have been finalized. Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix01:07:30[Non-english content] Translator01:07:30Down the road, we will continue to execute investment to support growth in a timely manner, maintain sound financial structure, and pursue the kind of capital allocation strategy that can enhance shareholder value through sustainable cash generation. Song Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate Center at SK hynix01:07:56[Non-english content] Translator01:07:56Thank you very much. That concludes the SK hynix 2026 second quarter earnings release conference.Read moreParticipantsExecutivesPark Seong-hwanHead of Investor RelationsSong Hyeon-jongPresident of Corporate CenterSong Chang-seopHead of NAND MarketingKim Woo-hyunCFOAnalystsTranslatorJay KwonAnalyst at JPMorganRokho KimAnalyst at Hana SecuritiesSunwoo KimAnalyst at Meritz SecuritiesS. K. KimAnalyst at Daiwa Capital MarketsDong-hee HanAnalyst at SK SecuritiesNicolas GaudoisAnalyst at UBSSanjeev RanaAnalyst at CLSA Securities KoreaHyung-keun RyuAnalyst at Daishin SecuritiesYoungho RyuAnalyst at NH Investment & SecuritiesSurim LeeAnalyst at DS Investment & SecuritiesPowered by
