The Significance of TSM: An In-Depth Analysis of Its Performance and Role in the Tech Industry

PUBLISHED Jan 5, 2025, 3:33:31 PM        SHARE

img
imgThe Common Investor on YouTube

The Significance of TSM: An In-Depth Analysis of Its Performance and Role in the Tech Industry

In recent years, TSM (Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company) has been a hot topic, and it's clear why. The company's stock has soared by an impressive 247% over the last five years, far outpacing the S&P 500's 90% increase during the same period. Even on a shorter scale, TSM's one-year performance has surged by 105%, highlighting its robust growth.

TSM's Outstanding Stock Performance

TSM's stock performance is truly remarkable. With a five-year increase of 247%, it has significantly outperformed the S&P 500, which only saw a 90% rise. Additionally, TSM's one-year performance stands at an impressive 105%, further solidifying its strong market presence.

TSM's Crucial Role in AI and Technology

However, the buzz around TSM isn't just about its stock performance. This company is a key player in the tech world. TSM provides the blueprints that Nvidia uses to manufacture their AI GPUs, which are essential for tech giants like Microsoft, Apple, Google, and Meta. Virtually all AI applications globally are powered through Nvidia and, by extension, TSM.

The Importance of TSM's Business Model

To understand whether TSM is a good investment, it's crucial to examine the company's business model and competitive advantages. TSM is often considered one of the most important companies globally due to its indispensable resources for major tech companies. Without TSM, companies couldn't produce advanced AI chips, GPUs, or even high-end iPhones. This is why TSM has such a significant moat in the industry.

The Competitive Landscape

While companies like Samsung and Intel are trying to compete with TSM, they face numerous challenges. Samsung's semiconductor business is not as profitable, and Intel lacks extensive experience in cutting-edge nanometer technology. TSM's expertise in chip fabrication, particularly in making smaller and more compact chips, sets it apart from the competition.

TSM's Complex and Costly Operations

TSM's operations are complex and costly. The machinery required is expensive, and it takes significant time and resources to train staff and establish new facilities. Despite these challenges, TSM continues to expand, with new facilities in Arizona and Japan, although most cutting-edge technology is developed in Taiwan.

TSM's Valuation and Growth Potential

PE ratios are crucial in evaluating TSM's value compared to the S&P 500. With a PE ratio of 32.85, TSM is slightly above the S&P 500's average, reflecting its significant growth and important moat. The company has been dramatically outpacing the S&P 500, making it an attractive investment for those looking at long-term growth.

Evaluating TSM: A Closer Look at PE Ratios, Earnings, and Revenue Growth

When analyzing a company's financial health, it’s essential to be cautious with Price-to-Earnings (PE) ratios. Sometimes, one-time expenses can distort PE ratios, making things look better or worse than they are. By comparing GAAP earnings to non-GAAP earnings, you can get a clearer picture. If these figures are similar, the PE ratio is likely accurate. However, a significant discrepancy between GAAP and non-GAAP earnings warrants a closer look to understand the reasons behind it.

PE Ratios and Earnings per Share

TSM doesn't have significant discrepancies between GAAP and non-GAAP earnings, indicating a reliable PE ratio. With consistent earnings per share, the company stands out in the semiconductor industry. TSM had exceptionally high margins in late 2021 and early 2022. Despite now recording record profits of $1.94 and an expected $2.20 for the last quarter, the performance isn't as high as it was during that period. Currently, TSM is generating $20.2 billion in revenue, with profits expected to reach $23.5 billion to $26.3 billion.

The Importance of Sustaining Margins

In earnings calls, investors are often eager to know if profit margins will increase. However, unless TSM can sustain high margins over an extended period, short-term gains aren't particularly significant. As a long-term investor, consistent profit margins are more important than temporary spikes. TSM excels in maintaining customer loyalty by not inflating prices for short-term gains.

Revenue Growth Over the Years

Revenue growth is a key indicator of a company's health. Visualizing TSM's revenue annually makes it clear. Despite a slight downturn, the company experienced substantial growth from 2021 to 2023 and is projected to continue this trajectory into 2024. The semiconductor industry is typically cyclical, with companies like STM and Micron experiencing downturns. However, TSM has bucked this trend due to the high demand for high-end GPU computing from companies like Nvidia, Apple, Meta, Google, and Microsoft.

Long-Term Investment Perspective

For long-term investors, understanding these cyclical trends can be advantageous. Buying at lows and holding through highs allows for potential gains. Consistent growth in revenue and profit over time is a positive sign, suggesting that TSM can outpace the S&P 500 in the long run.

Revenue Sources and Industry Impact

TSM's revenue primarily comes from high-performance computing (likely AI and top-end gaming), which accounts for a significant portion of its revenue. Smartphones contribute 34%, with other sectors like automotive, internet of things, and digital others also playing a role. The automotive sector, in particular, is expected to grow with advancements in self-driving vehicles.

Competitors and Market Position

While companies like Samsung and Intel are also in the semiconductor market, TSM has a competitive edge with cutting-edge technology (5 nanometer and 3 nanometer). Samsung's semiconductor business is not as profitable, and Intel lacks the advanced technology that TSM has mastered.

Evaluating Growth, Risks, and Future Prospects

Steady Growth and Fair Valuation

Expecting TSM to continue its growth trajectory, the current price point isn't excessively high. With a PE ratio of 34, the stock isn't cheap, but considering the rapid pace of the business, it's justified. In terms of share price performance, TSM is performing well, and there's little worry among investors. However, it isn't the perfect buying opportunity, as it's not undervalued. The S&P 500's PE ratio is around 30, while TSM's is 34, making it fairly valued but not a bargain.

Unique Risks and Advantages

Every company has its unique risks and advantages, and TSM is no exception. One significant risk is the geopolitical situation involving China and Taiwan. The possibility of an invasion of Taiwan has been a concern, though a full-scale military operation seems unlikely due to the complexity. However, any significant disruption could severely impact TSM, making it a critical factor for investors to consider.

Performance Compared to U.S. Companies

Historically, U.S. companies tend to outperform their foreign counterparts. However, TSM is an exception due to its significant technological advancements and strategic importance in the semiconductor industry. Despite being a foreign company, TSM's performance and potential make it a valuable investment.

Leadership and Long-Term Strategy

TSM's leadership is another key advantage. The company's long-term thinking, commitment to not exploiting customers for short-term gains, and strategic supply management contribute to its stability and growth. TSM's approach to maintaining good relationships with customers and competitors, such as AMD and Nvidia, is indicative of its forward-thinking strategy.

Projecting Future Performance

While predicting a stock's future price is challenging, TSM is expected to outperform the S&P 500 over the next five years. The continuous investment in AI and the demand for high-quality, high-tech chips position TSM at the forefront of the industry. Although a 500% increase in five years might be unrealistic, TSM's potential for consistent growth makes it a strong candidate for long-term investment.

https://youtu.be/ackCj05Qkcg?si=JHM7DLLFQLCZdhDa



Sound investments
don't happen alone

Find your crew, build teams, compete in VS MODE, and identify investment trends in our evergrowing investment ecosystem. You aren't on an island anymore, and our community is here to help you make informed decisions in a complex world.

More Reads
The AI Boom in Tech Stocks: Winners and Losers
Image

AI is revolutionizing industries, driving innovation, and transforming the stock market. This article explores the history, advancements, and benefits of AI, from generative models like ChatGPT to applications in sectors such as healthcare, finance, and transportation. In 2024, the stock market showcased clear winners like Nvidia, Microsoft, and Tesla, which capitalized on AI technologies, and losers like Intel and Snapchat, which struggled to adapt. While AI offers opportunities for efficiency, automation, and economic growth, it also brings challenges, including overvaluation fears, ethical dilemmas, and regulatory scrutiny. Looking forward, companies that balance innovation with responsible practices will define AI's sustainable impact.

Is Vertiv a BUY Even After a Massive Run?
Image

An in depth look at Vertiv (VRT)

Not a Cheap Market
Image

Stock Market Commentary

The Evolution of Holiday Shopping: Winners, Trends, and Economic Insights for 2024
Image

The 2024 holiday shopping season showcases resilience as retailers adapt to inflation's impact on consumer spending. With extended discounts and hybrid shopping models, companies like Amazon, Walmart, and Target attract value-focused buyers. This article further explores economic conditions, retail strategies (E-commerse vs brick and mortar), key players and popular gifts.

USLM Stock Soars 209% YTD: Why United States Lime & Minerals Is a Strong Buy
Image

United States Lime & Minerals (USLM) has emerged as a top-performing stock in 2024, delivering an impressive 209% YTD return. Operating in the cyclical materials industry, USLM benefits from favorable macroeconomic conditions, including lower inflation and increasing infrastructure demand. This article takes a closer look into the fundamentals and financial ratios to determine whether USLM is an attractive buying opportunity for investors.

Is Target Stock Undervalued? A Comprehensive Analysis of TGT in 2024?
Image

Target (TGT), a cornerstone of the U.S. retail industry, has faced a mix of opportunities and challenges in recent years. This article analyzes Target's financial performance, key metrics, and competitive positioning, highlighting its resilience in navigating economic pressures like inflation and shifting consumer behaviors towards digital shopping. Despite margin compression in 2023, Target has showcased recovery in 2024, driven by its focus on e-commerce, operational efficiency, and innovative shopping solutions. With steady dividend payouts and potential undervaluation, Target presents an opportunity for long-term investors.

2024 Bitcoin Price Insights: Trends and Predictions for 2025
Image

Bitcoin experienced significant price growth in 2024, surging from $40,000 in January to an all-time high of $99,000 in November. Key factors driving this growth included the Bitcoin halving event, increased institutional investment, and the pro-crypto stance of President Trump’s administration following the U.S. elections. The introduction of spot Bitcoin ETFs and options trading further fueled market demand.

Vale Commits to Restoring Hectares of the Amazon Rainforest
Image

Vale’s commitment to sustainability, including its pledge to restore 500,000 hectares of degraded land in the Amazon rainforest by 2030, positions it favorably in an increasingly environmentally conscious market.

Why You Should Take a look at Boise Superior Industries International
Image

Superior Industries International, Inc. (NYSE:SUP) is a leading global supplier of aluminum wheels. The company designs, engineers, and manufactures a wide variety of innovative and high-quality products using the latest lightweighting and finishing technologies.

Boise Cascade is a leading manufacturer and distributor of building materials
Image

Boise Cascade has a strategic approach to growth through acquisitions. In 2022, the company acquired Coastal Plywood Company, significantly expanding its manufacturing capacity and product offerings.

Freeport-McMoRan - The Top Miner of Gold, Silver, and Molybdenum
Image

Freeport-McMoRan is a leading mining company with a diverse portfolio of mineral assets. It primarily explores for copper, gold, molybdenum, silver, and other metals.

Is Costco Stock Worth Buying?
Image

Costco is one of the world's largest wholesale companies. Does that make it a worthy buy opportunity?

Albemarle - Lithium Mining Leader
Image

Albemarle has strategically expanded its operations through several key acquisitions. In 2015, the company acquired Rockwood Holdings, significantly boosting its lithium production capabilities.

Why Pan American Silver Corp (PAAS) is a Buy
Image

Pan American Silver Corp (PAAS) stands out as a compelling buy for several reasons. As one of the world’s largest silver producers, the company extracted 4.57 million ounces of silver in Q2 2024, along with significant amounts of gold, zinc, lead, and copper.

SCHD vs. VYM: Which Dividend ETF Is The Best?
Image

While looking for passive income investments, there is no better place to look than a good dividend stock. Dividend stocks come in all forms and sizes, and with volatility in the market, it can be hard to choose the correct one.

Why USLM United States Lime & Minerals Inc. is a Buy
Image

USLM operates in two main segments: Lime and Limestone Operations, and Natural Gas Interests. The Lime and Limestone segment includes plants and facilities in Arkansas, Colorado, Louisiana, Oklahoma, and Texas, serving markets in the Central United States.

Why Smart Sand Inc. (SND) is a Buy
Image

Smart Sand Inc. is headquartered in Yardley, Pennsylvania, and operates facilities in key locations to serve major oil and gas basins. The company specializes in the excavation, processing, and sale of high-quality sands or proppants used in hydraulic fracturing operations.

Why CEMEX S.A.B. de C.V. (CX) is a Buy
Image

In the competitive landscape, CEMEX stands out due to its global reach and diverse product offerings. Major competitors include LafargeHolcim, HeidelbergCement, and CRH.

Why Cementos Pacasmayo is a Buy
Image

Cementos Pacasmayo S.A.A. is a strong buy for investors seeking a reliable dividend stock with growth potential.

Resources for Publishers
Resources for New Investors
Boosted with BossCoin
Financial Literacy Leaders
user_profile
Wise Intelligent
user_profile
Tom Hamilton
user_profile
Mark Robertson
user_profile
Kevin Matthews II
user_profile
Akeiva Ellis
user_profile
Brendan Dale
user_profile
Kenneth Chavis IV
user_profile
Sharita Humphrey