Intel has announced that it will be selling a 10% stake in its Vienna-based subsidiary, IMS Nanofabrication, to Taiwanese foundry giant TSMC. This move is part of Intel's strategy to develop advanced chips using extreme ultraviolet lithography (EUV) technology. The deal values IMS Nanofabrication at $4.3 billion, the same valuation assigned during the sale of a 20% stake to Bain Capital earlier this year.
The sale to TSMC is expected to close in the fourth quarter, while the sale to Bain Capital is anticipated to close in the third quarter. Despite these stake sales, Intel will retain the majority share and IMS Nanofabrication will continue to function as a standalone subsidiary led by CEO Elmar Platzgummer.
IMS Nanofabrication specializes in the development of multi-beam masking tools necessary for EUV lithography, a critical technology for manufacturing state-of-the-art chips. This investment from TSMC and Bain Capital will enhance the independence of IMS Nanofabrication and bolster confidence in its growth potential. With Intel and TSMC both embracing EUV technology for chip production, this collaboration supports the advancement of lithography technology and benefits the overall semiconductor manufacturing ecosystem.
Kevin Zhang, senior vice president of business development at TSMC, expressed that this investment strengthens the long-term partnership between TSMC and IMS Nanofabrication, which dates back to 2012. The aim is to accelerate innovation and foster deeper cross-industry collaboration.
By securing these strategic investments, IMS Nanofabrication is well-positioned to address the considerable growth opportunities in the development of multi-beam mask writing tools. The advancements made in these tools over the next decade and beyond will play a crucial role in the manufacturing of cutting-edge semiconductor chips.
