0518 GMT - MPI stands to benefit from demand for custom artificial intelligence application-specific integrated circuit projects, Daiwa Capital Markets analysts say in a research report. Capitalizing on Taiwan's semiconductor manufacturing cluster, the Taiwanese company has maintained a high market share across such ASIC projects and is progressively becoming an exclusive supplier. Given more ASIC projects are being developed and moving into mass production, demand for probe cards is poised to grow. The brokerage initiates coverage of the stock with a buy rating and a target price of 8,415.00 New Taiwan dollars. Shares are 2.6% higher at NT$5,605.00.