Tech News
Back to home
Technology

US gov't blocks China's largest LED chipmaker's $239 million bid to acquire Dutch lighting firm Lumileds — US blocks acquisition attempt of European firm

Source

Tom's Hardware

Published

TL;DR

AI Generated

The US government has blocked China's largest LED chipmaker, Sanan Optoelectronics, from acquiring Dutch lighting firm Lumileds for $239 million due to national security risks related to Lumileds' GaN chip technology. This marks the second time in a decade that a Chinese bid for Lumileds has been thwarted by the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS). The concern lies in Lumileds' GaN chips, which have military applications, prompting CFIUS to prevent the acquisition. Sanan's failed bid comes amidst governance issues at the company, including the detention of its founder and a significant drop in market capitalization.

Read Full Article

Similar Articles

MIT Technology Review

The Download: murderous ‘mirror’ bacteria, and Chinese workers fighting AI doubles

Scientists initially proposed creating mirror bacteria with reversed proteins and sugars for research purposes, but now fear these organisms could pose a catastrophic threat to life on Earth. In China, tech workers are concerned about AI replication of their skills and personalities, leading to fears of losing professional identity. Meanwhile, the White House and Anthropic are working on a compromise, and other tech news includes Palantir's manifesto, Germany's push for looser AI rules, and Nvidia's shift towards AI over gaming.

MIT Technology Review•
US lawmakers amend new restrictions on Chinese chipmakers — MATCH Act's blanket restrictions removed from select chipmaking tools

US lawmakers amend new restrictions on Chinese chipmakers — MATCH Act's blanket restrictions removed from select chipmaking tools

US lawmakers have revised the MATCH Act to narrow its restrictions, removing a provision that banned sales of cryogenic etching tools to chipmakers in countries like China. The updated bill eliminates a nationwide restriction on cryogenic etch equipment, easing concerns in the semiconductor equipment industry. While the original draft included cryogenic etching equipment as a separate type needing export controls, existing US export rules already covered these tools since 2021. The latest version of the bill maintains restrictions on sales of advanced wafer fabrication equipment to certain Chinese semiconductor manufacturers but no longer presumes denial of licenses for servicing equipment at covered facilities.

Tom's Hardware•
Intel hires tenured Samsung exec to lead Foundry Services — signals company focus on winning business from potential Foundry suitors

Intel hires tenured Samsung exec to lead Foundry Services — signals company focus on winning business from potential Foundry suitors

Intel has appointed Shawn 'Seung Hoon' Han, a seasoned Samsung executive, as the new senior vice president and general manager of Foundry Services. Han's extensive experience at Samsung Foundry will bring valuable expertise to Intel's Foundry division, focusing on engaging with external customers. The move signifies Intel's strategic shift towards enhancing customer acquisition, trust, and long-term relationships in the competitive foundry market. Han's role will involve leading sales, customer relations, and securing external partnerships, emphasizing the importance of customer-centric strategies for Intel Foundry's success. His appointment underscores Intel's commitment to strengthening its position in the foundry business and converting technical interest into tangible business opportunities.

Tom's Hardware•
China has spent 3.6 times more than the US on chipmaking subsidies over the past decade — $142 billion and counting, easily outweighs CHIPS Act

China has spent 3.6 times more than the US on chipmaking subsidies over the past decade — $142 billion and counting, easily outweighs CHIPS Act

China has outspent the US in chipmaking subsidies by 3.6 times over the past decade, totaling $142 billion compared to $39 billion in the US. This spending has positioned China as a major player in the global tech landscape, but the report suggests that other governments need to respond strategically to mitigate potential risks. Despite China's significant investments, the report argues that they have not achieved a breakthrough in leading-edge chip technology, with US-based companies still dominating global semiconductor shipments. The report also highlights the challenges Chinese firms face in catching up with advanced technologies due to factors like R&D intensity and access to crucial tools.

Tom's Hardware•

We use cookies

We use cookies to ensure you get the best experience on our website. For more information on how we use cookies, please see our cookie policy.