Driven by AI chip demand, Samsung forecasts profit surge of eight times to $80 billion

Samsung expects operating profits for July–September to reach 107.4 trillion won ($80.2 billion), a record high, compared to 12.2 trillion won last year and ahead of Refinitiv's estimate of 106 trillion won. Sales are forecast at 195 trillion won, up 126.6% year-on-year. Samsung will disclose profit and sales estimates before releasing its full quarterly report. This guidance marks the company's fourth consecutive quarter of record performance and underscores the persistent shortage in memory chips as AI firms drive up prices through heavy procurement. The surging demand for memory chips is also putting pressure on other buyers, such as smartphone and PC manufacturers, forcing them to absorb rising costs.