EP 159: MediaTek and the Evolving Custom ASIC Business, More Memory Pain, and More

The podcast analyzes MediaTek's evolving role in the custom ASIC market, highlighting its shift from a perceived low-cost provider to a serious competitor against Broadcom and Marvell. Ben Bajarin emphasizes MediaTek's increased willingness to showcase its IP, including SERDES and optical technologies, marking a cultural shift for the company. The discussion explores MediaTek's close relationship with TSMC and its potential advantages in wafer allocation and advanced packaging. Additionally, the conversation pivots to the memory market, noting current shortages and conflicting signals from stock performance versus supply chain realities, with potential constraints on data center builds due to shortages in helium, tungsten and water. Finally, the podcast touches on Intel's buyback of its Ireland fab stake from Apollo, interpreting it as a move to escape unfavorable contractual terms.