The Trump administration has formalized a policy requiring semiconductor companies building U.S. factories to sell shares in exchange for subsidies, a reversal of agreements made under the Biden administration. President Donald Trump, seeking to cement U.S. semiconductor dominance, is attempting to secure equity stakes in firms like Intel, TSMC, Micron, and Samsung Electronics. Korean companies are alarmed. If enforced, Samsung could be compelled to hand over a stake nearly equal to Chairman Lee Jae-yong’s holdings. Critics argue this may be an attempt to undermine or cancel previously promised subsidies. On Aug. 19, U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Rutnick told CNBC that the Biden-era subsidy policy was “handing out cash to wealthy corporations.” He explained Trump’s approach would convert subsidies into equity investments — “a smarter approach from a taxpayer’s perspective.” Reports suggest the government is negotiating to take a 10 percent stake in Intel for $10.9 billion in subsidies, with profits like dividends used for public benefit. Rutnick said the U.S. would not exercise voting rights. Reuters confirmed Rutnick is considering acquiring shares in firms using CHIPS Act subsidies, naming Intel, Micron, TSMC, and Samsung Electronics. This raises the possibility that Samsung could be forced to issue shares in proportion to the $4.7 billion subsidy for its $51 trillion won foundry in Taylor, Texas. SK Hynix, investing 5 trillion won in Indiana, is set to receive $640 billion won in subsidies. These deals were finalized under Biden in December 2024. Samsung is also subject to debt guarantees, requiring repayment of up to $6.4 billion if its U.S. subsidiary fails to meet obligations. Industry voices expressed frustration: “It’s incomprehensible for the U.S. to ignore existing contracts and demand shares,” said one insider. “Predicting the Trump administration’s policy is meaningless, so we will closely monitor developments.” Analysts warn that if new shares are issued equivalent to subsidy payments, Washington could acquire about 1.56 percent of Samsung Electronics — close to Chairman Lee’s 1.65 percent stake. Such dilution would impact ordinary shareholders, raising concerns about corporate governance and foreign influence (ICE SEOUL)

Fonte notizia: HANKYOREH