Contract prices for mainstream multi-level cell (MLC) NAND flash chips are expected to rebound later in July 2010, as system OEMs and memory card makers restock for the upcoming peak season, according to the latest date.
Contract quotes for 32Gb and 64Gb 2-bit per cell chips edged down 4-6% to average US$6.67 and US$13.82, respectively, in the first half of June. Early June prices for 32Gb and 64Gb 3-bit per cell parts have also slid 1-3%, the price tracker indicated.
Meanwhile, average prices for 8Gb and 16Gb MLC chips remained flat at US$3.76 and US$3.96, respectively, in the first half of June.
Chip suppliers have initiated pricing strategies to boost buying sentiment during the weak season. Demand may not pick up until the first half of July, partly due to the impact of Europe's bond crisis.
Also expects upcoming launches of smartphones and tablet PCs to further stimulate NAND flash demand in the second half of 2010. The bullish demand would help digest chip suppliers' rising output using more advanced processes (3x/2xnm), as well as 3-bit per cell chips. As a result, NAND flash supply is expected to become tighter in the second half, and allow room to prop up prices.