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United Microelectronics Corp. (UMC)
NYSE:UMC

United Micro (UMC) AI Stock Analysis

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UMC

United Micro

(NYSE:UMC)

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Outperform 77 (OpenAI - 5.2)
Rating:77Outperform
Price Target:
$12.00
▲(13.42% Upside)
The score is driven primarily by solid financial health and an improving technical setup (price above key moving averages with positive MACD). Earnings call commentary is constructive on 2026 growth but tempered by near-term margin and utilization headwinds, while valuation is mixed (strong yield but a mid-range P/E).
Positive Factors
Strong, conservative balance sheet
UMC’s low leverage and steadily expanding equity provide durable financial flexibility for a capital-intensive foundry business. Conservative debt levels reduce refinancing risk, support disciplined CapEx, and enable the company to invest through cycles without jeopardizing liquidity or strategic programs.
Advanced-node (22/28nm) momentum
Strong 22/28nm mix raises ASPs and reflects rising tape-outs and customer adoption. Durable migration to these nodes supports higher-margin production, helps UMC outgrow its addressable market, and underpins multi-year revenue and profitability improvement as customers ramp products.
High exposure to specialty technologies
A roughly 50% specialty mix cushions UMC from pure logic cyclicality and captures higher-value niches (e.g., embedded HV). This diversification yields stickier customer relationships, steadier ASPs, and structural resilience across end markets like automotive and power management.
Negative Factors
Volatile free cash flow
Irregular FCF reduces predictability for dividends, buybacks and externally funded investments. In a capital-heavy sector, swings driven by capex and working capital can constrain strategic agility during downturns, forcing trade-offs between reinvestment and shareholder returns over multi-year cycles.
Rising depreciation and margin pressure
Increasing depreciation from recent capacity adds is a persistent accounting headwind that will compress reported gross and operating margins even if volumes rise. Sustained higher D&A combined with inflationary input costs can limit margin recovery and reduce near-term earnings leverage from volume growth.
Limited near-term capacity headroom
With some fabs at full utilization and only modest capacity growth planned, UMC may face allocation constraints as demand recovers. Limited short-term expansion capacity increases the risk of lost wallet share or the need for strategic pricing concessions, constraining sustainable revenue upside until ramps complete.

United Micro (UMC) vs. SPDR S&P 500 ETF (SPY)

United Micro Business Overview & Revenue Model

Company DescriptionUnited Microelectronics Corporation operates as a semiconductor wafer foundry in Taiwan, Singapore, China, Hong Kong, Japan, the United States, Europe, and internationally. The company provides circuit design, mask tooling, wafer fabrication, and assembly and testing services. It serves fabless design companies and integrated device manufacturers. United Microelectronics Corporation was incorporated in 1980 and is headquartered in Hsinchu City, Taiwan.
How the Company Makes MoneyUMC generates revenue primarily through its foundry services, which involve manufacturing semiconductor wafers for clients based on their designs. The company operates on a contract basis, charging fees for production based on the complexity and volume of the chips produced. Key revenue streams include the production of standard logic, mixed-signal, and radio frequency ICs. UMC's partnerships with major semiconductor design companies and collaborations with technology firms enhance its market presence and contribute to its earnings. Additionally, the company invests in research and development to innovate and improve its manufacturing processes, allowing it to attract a broader customer base and command premium pricing for advanced technologies.

United Micro Earnings Call Summary

Earnings Call Date:Jan 28, 2026
(Q4-2025)
|
% Change Since: |
Next Earnings Date:Apr 29, 2026
Earnings Call Sentiment Positive
The call presented a generally constructive operational picture driven by shipment growth (+12.3% YoY), Q4 revenue and improved gross margin (~30.7%), strong 22/28nm momentum (22nm +31% QoQ) and disciplined CapEx guidance (USD 1.5B). Management flagged near-term margin headwinds from higher depreciation and inflationary costs, modest utilization guidance (mid-70s in Q1), some one-time pricing concessions for strategic customers, and multi-year timelines for advanced packaging and silicon photonics ramp. On balance, the positives around volume growth, product-mix improvement and strategic investments slightly outweigh the margin and timing risks noted.
Q4-2025 Updates
Positive Updates
Q4 Revenue and QoQ Growth
Consolidated revenue in Q4 2025 was TWD 61.81 billion, up 4.5% quarter-over-quarter.
Strong Q4 Gross Margin and Profitability
Gross margin improved to ~30.7% in Q4 2025 (gross profit TWD 18.95 billion); net income attributable to shareholders for Q4 was ~TWD 10.05–10.06 billion with EPS of TWD 0.81.
Full-Year Shipment and USD Revenue Growth
For 2025 shipments increased 12.3% year-over-year and revenue in U.S. dollars grew 5.3% year-over-year, demonstrating operational volume growth and USD revenue improvement.
Full-Year Revenue, Net Income and Cash Position
Full-year 2025 revenue was TWD 237.5 billion (up 2.3% YoY), net income attributable to owners was ~TWD 41.7 billion (net income rate ~17.6%), EPS for 2025 was TWD 3.34, and cash on hand remained above TWD 110 billion with total equity of TWD 379.8 billion.
22-nanometer Momentum and Product-Mix Improvement
22-nanometer revenue rose 31% quarter-on-quarter (Q4) to a record high and accounted for >13% of Q4 revenue; 22nm + 28nm combined represented 36% of Q4 revenue and grew ~3 percentage points year-over-year, supporting better mix and ASP outlook.
Specialty Technologies and Diversified Revenue Base
Specialty technologies represent ~50% of overall revenue; embedded high-voltage comprises ~30% of specialty revenue, underscoring diversified, higher-value product exposure.
Geographic and IDM Mix Shifts
IDM account increased to 19% for the full year (up 3 percentage points); geographic mix saw North America decline from 25% in 2024 to 22% in 2025 while Asia and Europe increased, reflecting a diversified customer footprint.
CapEx Discipline and Completed Singapore Expansion Phase
2026 cash-based CapEx planned at USD 1.5 billion (slightly below USD 1.6 billion in 2025). Phase III of Singapore Fab 12i was completed in 2025 and will begin capacity expansion in H2 2026, supporting supply-chain diversification.
Progress on Strategic Technology Partnerships
12-nanometer collaboration with Intel is on track (PDK/IP delivery in 2026, tape-outs expected 2027). Silicon photonics (12-inch PIC pluggable products) and advanced packaging initiatives have tape-out/activity momentum (over 20 new tape-outs for advanced packaging in 2026) with expected ramping in 2026–2027.
Improved EBITDA Margin and Operational Initiatives
Management noted an improvement in 2025 EBITDA margin vs 2024 and ongoing cost reduction, productivity and efficiency programs to mitigate inflationary pressures.
Negative Updates
Full-Year EPS Decline
EPS for 2025 declined to TWD 3.34 from TWD 3.80 in 2024, indicating reduced profitability per share year-over-year despite higher shipments and USD revenue growth.
Near-Term Margin Pressure and Q1 Guidance
Management guided Q1 2026 gross margin to the high-20% range (below Q4's ~30.7%), citing higher depreciation and inflationary production/material costs; depreciation expected to rise low-teens percent in 2026, pressuring margins.
Utilization and Capacity Constraints
Reported utilization was ~78% in Q4 but Q1 2026 utilization guidance is mid-70% range; capacity remained flat Q/Q and will decline ~1% due to maintenance, while 2026 capacity increase is modest (~1.2% YoY).
Uncertainty in ASP Upside Magnitude
Although management expects a more favorable ASP environment in 2026, they emphasized pricing discussions remain ongoing and declined to quantify node-level pricing; magnitude of ASP improvement is uncertain and tied to utilization and mix.
Regional Revenue Shift Away from North America
North America's revenue share dropped from 25% in 2024 to ~22% in 2025, indicating regional mix shifts that may affect certain customer exposures.
One-Time Price Adjustments to Support Customers
Management acknowledged mixed pricing actions: certain strategic customers received one-time price concessions (downward adjustments) to support market share, which could constrain near-term ASP and margins for those pockets of demand.
Execution and Timing Risks for New Initiatives
Advanced packaging, silicon photonics and Intel 12nm projects have multi-year ramp timelines (tape-outs and commercial ramping into 2026–2027); near-term revenue contributions are limited and depend on successful execution and customer ramp schedules.
Xiamen Fab at Full Utilization
Xiamen fab is running at full capacity, implying limited near-term headroom there and potential customer or allocation constraints in that region.
Company Guidance
UMC guided that Q1 2026 wafer shipments will be flat with ASPs in U.S. dollars remaining firm, gross margin of roughly the high‑20% range and capacity utilization in the mid‑70% range; for 2026 it pegged cash‑based CapEx at about USD 1.5 billion (vs. USD 1.6B in 2025), expects overall capacity to rise ~1.2% year‑over‑year with Singapore Phase III starting deployment in H2‑2026 and ramping into 2027, anticipates depreciation to increase by the low‑teens annually (peaking this year or next), and reiterated confidence that 2026 will be a growth year in which UMC should outgrow its addressable market (forecasted to grow low single‑digits) while the broader foundry market is expected to grow in the low‑20% range.

United Micro Financial Statement Overview

Summary
Strong overall fundamentals with solid profitability and conservative leverage (Income Statement 78, Balance Sheet 83). The key risk is uneven free-cash-flow conversion, with notable volatility and weakness in 2023–2024 before a rebound in 2025 (Cash Flow 70).
Income Statement
78
Positive
UMC shows solid profitability with healthy gross and operating margins across the period, though margins have compressed meaningfully from 2022–2023 peaks (e.g., gross margin trending down into 2024–2025). Revenue growth is volatile and cyclical: a sharp decline in 2023 was followed by modest growth in 2024 and a very strong rebound in 2025. Net profit remains strong, but the drop from 2023 to 2024–2025 indicates earnings are sensitive to industry conditions.
Balance Sheet
83
Very Positive
The balance sheet looks strong and conservatively levered, with a low debt-to-equity ratio throughout (roughly 0.14–0.21) and a steadily expanding equity base over time. Returns on equity are solid but have come down from the 2022 high, consistent with the normalization in profitability. Overall, the company appears well-capitalized with manageable leverage, though recent returns suggest a less favorable pricing/cycle environment versus peak years.
Cash Flow
70
Positive
Cash generation from operations is consistently strong, supporting financial flexibility. However, free cash flow is more volatile: it turned negative in 2023, was very weak relative to profits in 2024, and then recovered sharply in 2025. This pattern suggests capital spending and/or working-capital swings can materially impact cash available to shareholders, even when reported earnings remain robust.
BreakdownDec 2025Dec 2024Dec 2023Dec 2022Dec 2021
Income Statement
Total Revenue237.55B232.30B222.53B278.71B213.01B
Gross Profit68.91B75.65B77.74B125.76B72.05B
EBITDA109.50B97.35B105.85B153.72B107.44B
Net Income41.72B47.21B59.69B89.48B51.25B
Balance Sheet
Total Assets579.00B560.17B546.58B524.65B450.96B
Cash, Cash Equivalents and Short-Term Investments110.66B115.24B144.88B178.60B170.90B
Total Debt78.34B70.47B64.16B45.61B46.82B
Total Liabilities199.14B194.46B202.86B201.83B186.58B
Stockholders Equity379.77B365.45B343.38B322.47B264.15B
Cash Flow
Free Cash Flow52.40B5.33B-8.02B62.98B40.39B
Operating Cash Flow100.41B93.87B86.00B145.86B90.35B
Investing Cash Flow-53.45B-85.94B-97.79B-54.43B-62.16B
Financing Cash Flow-39.42B-39.20B-29.09B-57.25B12.49B

United Micro Technical Analysis

Technical Analysis Sentiment
Positive
Last Price10.58
Price Trends
50DMA
8.47
Positive
100DMA
7.90
Positive
200DMA
7.54
Positive
Market Momentum
MACD
0.88
Negative
RSI
58.51
Neutral
STOCH
67.53
Neutral
Evaluating momentum and price trends is crucial in stock analysis to make informed investment decisions. For UMC, the sentiment is Positive. The current price of 10.58 is above the 20-day moving average (MA) of 9.57, above the 50-day MA of 8.47, and above the 200-day MA of 7.54, indicating a bullish trend. The MACD of 0.88 indicates Negative momentum. The RSI at 58.51 is Neutral, neither overbought nor oversold. The STOCH value of 67.53 is Neutral, not indicating any strong overbought or oversold conditions. Overall, these indicators collectively point to a Positive sentiment for UMC.

United Micro Risk Analysis

United Micro disclosed 46 risk factors in its most recent earnings report. United Micro reported the most risks in the "Finance & Corporate" category.
Finance & Corporate - Financial and accounting risks. Risks related to the execution of corporate activity and strategy
Latest Risks Added 0 New Risks

United Micro Peers Comparison

Overall Rating
UnderperformOutperform
Sector (61)
Financial Indicators
Name
Overall Rating
Market Cap
P/E Ratio
ROE
Dividend Yield
Revenue Growth
EPS Growth
77
Outperform
$30.43B21.2311.43%6.06%5.87%-20.93%
76
Outperform
$15.53B78.077.19%8.03%-6.03%
73
Outperform
$26.13B81.173.87%-16.13%-81.06%
69
Neutral
$43.74B39.0011.16%2.29%8.01%10.41%
64
Neutral
$26.53B53.323.00%1.28%-17.33%-76.71%
63
Neutral
$25.44B-533.09-0.38%0.25%-106.22%
61
Neutral
$37.18B12.37-10.20%1.83%8.50%-7.62%
* Technology Sector Average
Performance Comparison
Ticker
Company Name
Price
Change
% Change
UMC
United Micro
10.58
5.00
89.74%
ASX
ASE Technology Holding Co
19.78
9.96
101.43%
ON
ON Semiconductor
62.20
8.93
16.76%
STM
STMicroelectronics
28.62
6.36
28.57%
TSEM
Tower
134.71
86.03
176.73%
GFS
GlobalFoundries Inc
44.46
2.96
7.13%

United Micro Corporate Events

United Microelectronics Posts Solid Q4 2025 Results and Signals Growth for 2026
Jan 28, 2026

On January 28, 2026, UMC reported its consolidated operating results for the fourth quarter and full year 2025, posting Q4 revenue of NT$61.81 billion, up 4.5% sequentially and 2.4% year-on-year, with a gross margin of 30.7% and net income of NT$10.06 billion. Earnings per share for 2025 reached NT$3.34, supported by a 93% year-on-year surge in full-year 22nm revenue and record 22nm sales in the fourth quarter, where 22/28nm technologies contributed 36% of revenue and 22nm alone exceeded 13%, reflecting a favorable product mix and stable wafer demand despite only modest market growth. Management said 2026 is expected to be another growth year, underpinned by accelerating tape-outs on 22nm platforms, new technology solutions, and expanded manufacturing capacity including the completed Phase 3 facility at Singapore Fab 12i and U.S. partnerships such as a 12nm collaboration with Intel and an MOU with Polar Semiconductor. UMC also highlighted sustainability milestones achieved in 2025, including the inauguration of an on-site Circular Economy and Recycling Innovation Center in Taiwan that is expected to cut waste from its Taiwan fabs by up to one-third, while guidance for the first quarter of 2026 calls for flat wafer shipments, firm U.S. dollar ASPs, gross margin in the high-20% range, mid-70% capacity utilization and 2026 capital expenditures of US$1.5 billion.

The most recent analyst rating on (UMC) stock is a Buy with a $14.00 price target. To see the full list of analyst forecasts on United Micro stock, see the UMC Stock Forecast page.

United Microelectronics Sets Q4 2025 Investor Call and Reports December Insider Share Activity
Jan 14, 2026

On January 14, 2026, United Microelectronics Corporation announced it will hold an online institutional investor conference on January 28, 2026, to present its financial and operating results for the fourth quarter of 2025, signaling continued engagement with the capital markets as it updates investors on recent performance. In a separate disclosure covering December 2025, the company reported share trading activity by its directors, executive officers and 10% shareholders, showing mostly incremental increases in individual holdings and no pledged or cleared pledges of UMC common shares during the month, suggesting stable insider confidence and limited leverage against their equity positions.

The most recent analyst rating on (UMC) stock is a Buy with a $10.00 price target. To see the full list of analyst forecasts on United Micro stock, see the UMC Stock Forecast page.

United Microelectronics Posts Modest December and Full-Year 2025 Revenue Growth
Jan 7, 2026

On January 7, 2026, United Microelectronics Corporation reported its operating metrics for December 2025, showing net sales of NT$19.28 billion for the month, up 1.66% from December 2024, and full-year 2025 net sales of NT$237.55 billion, a 2.26% increase over 2024, signaling modest growth momentum amid a competitive foundry landscape. The company disclosed that it had no funds lent to other parties, reported no active endorsements or guarantees after the early prepayment and release of its guarantee on USC (Xiamen)’s syndicated bank loan, and outlined limited financial derivative activity primarily in forward contracts with small associated fair value and realized losses and minor gains, underscoring a conservative financial risk profile for stakeholders.

The most recent analyst rating on (UMC) stock is a Sell with a $4.80 price target. To see the full list of analyst forecasts on United Micro stock, see the UMC Stock Forecast page.

United Microelectronics Invests NT$1.26 Billion in New Equipment to Boost Production and R&D
Dec 30, 2025

Between January 7 and December 19, 2025, United Microelectronics Corporation acquired a batch of machinery and equipment from Applied Materials South East Asia Pte. Ltd. for a total consideration of NT$1,259,089,982 in a non-related party transaction. The purchase, finalized and approved internally on December 19, 2025, was determined through price negotiation based on market prices and is intended to support UMC’s production and R&D activities, signaling continued investment in manufacturing capacity and technology capabilities that could enhance its competitiveness and operational efficiency in the semiconductor foundry market.

The most recent analyst rating on (UMC) stock is a Buy with a $8.50 price target. To see the full list of analyst forecasts on United Micro stock, see the UMC Stock Forecast page.

UMC Advances Capacity Expansion and Strategic Investments in December 2025
Dec 17, 2025

On December 17, 2025, UMC announced two significant developments during its board meeting aimed at enhancing its operations and strategic positioning. First, the company approved a capital budget execution worth NT$ 30,096 million to expand its production capacity leveraging its working capital. Second, UMC disclosed its participation in the capital increase of Unimicron Technology Corp., subscribing up to 6,034,482 shares worth NTD 700,000,000, reflecting a strategic investment aligned with the company’s vision. These initiatives signify targeted growth investments and underline UMC’s commitment to both operational expansion and strengthening strategic partnerships.

The most recent analyst rating on (UMC) stock is a Buy with a $8.50 price target. To see the full list of analyst forecasts on United Micro stock, see the UMC Stock Forecast page.

United Microelectronics Announces Employee Stock Awards and Shareholder Trading Updates
Dec 10, 2025

On December 5, 2025, United Microelectronics Corporation announced the record date for a capital increase related to the issuance of 32,878,000 restricted stock awards for employees, following approvals from the 2024 Annual Shareholders’ Meeting and the Financial Supervisory Commission. Additionally, the company reported trading activities and changes in share pledges by its directors, executive officers, and significant shareholders for November 2025, reflecting minor adjustments in shareholdings.

The most recent analyst rating on (UMC) stock is a Buy with a $8.50 price target. To see the full list of analyst forecasts on United Micro stock, see the UMC Stock Forecast page.

UMC and Polar Partner for U.S. Semiconductor Manufacturing
Dec 4, 2025

On December 4, 2025, UMC announced a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Polar Semiconductor to explore collaboration on U.S.-based 8-inch wafer production. This partnership aims to enhance supply chain resilience and meet the growing demand for domestic semiconductor manufacturing, particularly in the U.S. The collaboration is expected to strengthen UMC’s market position by supporting multi-sourcing strategies and addressing customer needs for made-in-USA chips. Additionally, UMC reported a 5.91% increase in net sales for November 2025 compared to the previous year, reflecting continued growth in its operations.

The most recent analyst rating on (UMC) stock is a Buy with a $8.50 price target. To see the full list of analyst forecasts on United Micro stock, see the UMC Stock Forecast page.

United Microelectronics Clarifies Market Speculation and Announces Bond Issuance
Nov 28, 2025

On November 24, 2025, United Microelectronics Corporation addressed a report by Commercial Times, which highlighted the booming specialty technology process at UMC, expected to maintain its momentum into the following year. Additionally, UMC announced a supplement to its fourth unsecured straight corporate bond issuance for 2025, with a total issuance amount of NT$4,800 million. The bonds, issued at a fixed rate, are intended to aid in debt repayment, reflecting UMC’s strategic financial management aimed at strengthening its market position.

The most recent analyst rating on (UMC) stock is a Hold with a $7.50 price target. To see the full list of analyst forecasts on United Micro stock, see the UMC Stock Forecast page.

United Microelectronics to Attend Taiwan Corporate Day on November 24, 2025
Nov 20, 2025

On November 18, 2025, United Microelectronics Corporation announced its participation in the ‘2025 Taiwan Corporate Day’ investor conference, organized by Citi, scheduled for November 24, 2025, at the Mandarin Oriental Taipei. This engagement is part of UMC’s ongoing efforts to maintain transparency and communication with institutional investors, potentially impacting its market positioning and stakeholder relations positively.

The most recent analyst rating on (UMC) stock is a Hold with a $7.50 price target. To see the full list of analyst forecasts on United Micro stock, see the UMC Stock Forecast page.

United Microelectronics Announces Capital Reduction and Shareholder Activities
Nov 12, 2025

On November 12, 2025, United Microelectronics Corporation announced a capital reduction following the cancellation of the RSA, with the change registered on November 10, 2025. This adjustment slightly decreased the company’s paid-in capital and shares outstanding, while maintaining the book value per share. Additionally, the company reported on the trading and pledging activities of its directors, executive officers, and significant shareholders for October 2025, indicating a focus on transparency and governance.

The most recent analyst rating on (UMC) stock is a Buy with a $8.50 price target. To see the full list of analyst forecasts on United Micro stock, see the UMC Stock Forecast page.

United Microelectronics Reports October 2025 Financial Performance
Nov 6, 2025

On November 6, 2025, United Microelectronics Corporation reported its financial performance for October 2025, highlighting a slight decline in net sales by 0.36% compared to the same period in 2024. Despite this, the year-to-date sales showed a positive growth of 1.94%. The company also announced the release of its endorsement to USC(Xiamen)’s syndicated loan due to early prepayment, indicating a strategic financial maneuver. Additionally, financial derivatives transactions were detailed, showing minimal activity with a small realized profit.

The most recent analyst rating on (UMC) stock is a Buy with a $8.50 price target. To see the full list of analyst forecasts on United Micro stock, see the UMC Stock Forecast page.

Glossary
BuyA stock rated as a "Buy" is expected to perform better than the overall market or a specific benchmark over the near-to-medium term. This rating suggests the stock is likely to deliver higher returns compared to other stocks in the same sector or market index. Note: This is not investment advice; please consult a financial advisor before making investment decisions.
HoldA stock rated as a "Hold" is expected to perform in line with the overall market or a specific benchmark. This rating indicates that the stock is neither particularly compelling nor unfavorable for investment. Note: This is not investment advice; please consult a financial advisor before making investment decisions.
SellA stock rated as a "Sell" is expected to perform worse than the overall market or a specific benchmark over the near-to-medium term. This rating suggests the stock may deliver lower returns compared to other stocks in the same sector or market index. Note: This is not investment advice; please consult a financial advisor before making investment decisions.

Disclaimer

This AI Analyst Stock Report is automatically generated by our AI systems using advanced algorithms and publicly available financial, technical, and market data. While the information provided aims to be accurate and insightful, it is intended for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Any content created by an AI (Artificial Intelligence) system may contain inaccuracies and/or contain errors. Investing in stocks carries inherent risks, and past performance is not indicative of future results. This report does not account for your personal financial circumstances, objectives, or risk tolerance. Always conduct your own research or consult with a qualified financial advisor before making investment decisions. The analysis and recommendations provided are based on historical and current data and may not fully reflect future market conditions or unexpected developments. Neither the creators of this report nor its affiliated entities guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of the information presented. Use this report at your own discretion and risk.Date of analysis: Jan 30, 2026