After Last Year's Downturn, Prices Stabilize
Impact of Weakened Demand and Launch of New U.S. Administration
In January, the average monthly price of memory semiconductors showed a stable trend for DRAM, while NAND prices rose slightly.
According to market research firm DRAMeXchange on the 3rd, the average fixed transaction price for PC DRAM general-purpose products (DDR4 8Gb 1Gx8) in January was recorded at $1.35 (approximately 1,962 KRW), the same as the previous month.
DRAM prices turned downward in August last year, then sharply dropped by double digits in September (-17.07%) and November (-20.59%), and have remained unchanged since December.
The average fixed transaction price for NAND flash general-purpose products for memory cards and USBs (128Gb 16Gx8 MLC) rose 4.57% from the previous month to $2.18 (approximately 3,168 KRW).
NAND prices increased for five consecutive months from October 2023, maintained a stable trend, then declined for four consecutive months starting last September, before rebounding this month.
Although the steep decline in DRAM prices has eased, forecasts suggest that the sluggishness in memory prices will continue into the first quarter.
January memory prices appeared to have limited volatility as Chinese factory workers left their posts during the Chinese New Year, the largest holiday in China. Market research firm TrendForce estimated that "DRAM prices will fall by 8 to 13% in the first quarter of this year."
Along with the existing trend of weakening demand, the inauguration of the Donald Trump administration and increased geopolitical risks are expected to put further downward pressure on DRAM prices.
For NAND as well, it is expected that prices will be maintained as supply stabilizes with the resumption of operations at Chinese factories after the Chinese New Year.
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