KCE gains on AI demand, weak baht, upgrades; tariffs and costs weigh
AI-driven PCB demand and weak baht boost profit KCE benefited from AI-driven demand for printed circuit boards and a weak baht, which helped exports. Second-quarter profit rose 51–52% to 276 million baht, beating estimates, and the company paid a 0.60-baht interim dividend.
This explains the main positive force behind KCE's price during the period.
Broker upgrades on price hikes and Tesla robot hopes Brokers repeatedly upgraded KCE, citing price increases, tight supply, data-center demand, and a potential Tesla Optimus robot contract, though unsigned. Foreign inflows and falling US bond yields also supported the stock.
This captures the analyst and market sentiment that drove buying interest.
US tariffs and rising raw material costs threaten margins US Section 301 tariffs of 12.5% on Thai electronics and possible semiconductor tariffs pose risks. Raw material costs are rising, with fiberglass up 50–60% and copper foil up 7–8%, while Chinese competition and flooding near Ayutthaya plants add pressure.
This highlights the key counterweights that could limit gains.
Analysts warn sustained AI demand needed to offset costs Analysts caution that KCE needs sustained AI demand and further price increases to offset cost pressures. Without them, margin gains may not last, leaving the stock's outlook balanced between strong demand and rising expenses.
This gives a fair picture of the mixed outlook that investors are weighing.
