Shares in the PCB sector collectively advanced in afternoon trading. At the time of writing, KINGBOARD HLDG (00148) rose 5.45% to HKD 64.8; KB LAMINATES (01888) gained 4.49% to HKD 57; VGT (02476) increased 2.01% to HKD 445.8; DELTON (01989) edged up 0.33% to HKD 181.9.

The move follows a notice issued by KB LAMINATES to customers on May 27, announcing a price increase of 10% for board materials and 20% for PP (Prepreg). The company cited persistently high copper prices and continuously rising prices coupled with tightening supply for glass fabric as reasons for the adjustment. The new pricing takes effect for orders received from that date.

This marks the fourth price hike by KB LAMINATES this year, with the cumulative increase now exceeding 40%.

According to supply chain research by Morgan Stanley, the PCB cost for NVIDIA's VR200 has surged by over 233% compared to the GB300. This is projected to elevate the total PCB consumption value to approximately $117,000, a significant jump from the $35,000 for the GB300. This substantial cost escalation is primarily driven by an increase in the number of PCBs, which now incorporate new modules such as the ConnectX module and mid-board PCB. Additionally, upgrades in both the number of PCB layers and the grade of Copper-Clad Laminate (CCL) contribute to the higher costs.