No. 48

No. 48

Taiwan Semiconductor Mfg. (TSM)

Country: Taiwan
Revenue (Millions): 10,293
Revenue Growth: 3%
Return on Equity: 21%
Shareholder Return: -12%

TSMC is the world's biggest foundry, a chipmaker that produces semiconductors for others. With the slump in the economy depressing demand for chips, TSMC's stock price has lagged behind the benchmark Taiwan stock index. However, on May 4 it forecasted improved sales for the second quarter. Based in Hsinchu, Taiwan's premier high-tech zone, TSMC is now considering an expansion beyond semiconductors into other industries such as solar power.