On August 25, Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing is reportedly considering returning approximately $6.6 billion in CHIPS Act subsidies received from the U.S. government to preemptively avoid potential "equity-for-subsidies" requirements that could be imposed by a future Trump administration. Sources indicate that Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing executives have held preliminary discussions on this matter.

Meanwhile, the launch of the iPhone 16 has led to continued price declines for the iPhone 15. According to technology media reports, the iPhone 15 has reached a new price low of 239 yuan in recent promotional activities, marking the lowest price since the device's market debut.

U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick stated earlier this week that the U.S. government plans to acquire approximately 10% equity in Intel and is considering expanding this "subsidy-to-equity" model to other semiconductor companies. Government officials view the Biden administration's incentive measures as "free money" and therefore seek substantial returns on investment.

Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing executives are concerned that U.S. government equity participation could lead to additional policy pressures. Consequently, the company is considering proactively returning the funds to avoid related risks.

However, reports also indicate that an unnamed government official stated only subsidy recipients who have not committed to additional investments would potentially face government equity requirements. Given that Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing has committed to investing "hundreds of billions of dollars" in the United States, the likelihood of being required to surrender equity stakes is currently low, making the subsidy return a precautionary measure.

Apple iPhone 15 (domestic version) reference price: 5,288 yuan, with promotional prices as low as 239 yuan available through select platforms.