Shares of the Kingboard Group saw an uptick during the morning trading session. At the time of writing, Kingboard Laminates Holdings (01888) rose by 4.72% to HK$24.68, while Kingboard Holdings (00148) increased by 2.37% to HK$41.3. The movement follows industry reports indicating that Japanese semiconductor materials giant Resonac has raised prices for its CCL (Copper Clad Laminate) and bonding sheet products by 30%, effective March 1.

Market observers anticipate that Resonac's price increase will extend to high-end manufacturing segments such as MLCC (Multi-Layer Ceramic Capacitors), HDI (High-Density Interconnect) boards, IC substrates, and high-frequency, high-speed PCBs. Additionally, the PCB industry is poised for a significant catalyst with the upcoming launch of Nvidia's LPU inference chip.

According to Wanlian Securities, the acceleration in computing power is driving technological upgrades in AI-related PCBs, boosting demand for high-layer count boards, HDI, and other advanced PCB products. China leads globally in PCB output value, with major domestic manufacturers accelerating capital expenditures to expand production capacity for high-end PCBs like HDI and multi-layer boards.

Among upstream materials, copper clad laminates are expected to benefit from the expansion in PCB production. Due to rising raw material costs and strong demand, CCL product prices have continued to increase recently, which is likely to enhance corporate profitability.