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Roula Khalaf, Editor of the FT, selects her favourite stories in this weekly newsletter.
Nvidia has reported a significant surge in quarterly revenues, surpassing Wall Street estimates despite facing challenges from new US restrictions on its China sales. The chip company posted a revenue of $44.1bn for the quarter ending April 27, marking a 69% increase compared to the previous year and exceeding Wall Street’s projected revenue of $43.3bn. Shares of Nvidia rose more than 4% in after-hours trading following the announcement.
Despite the impact of US-China trade tensions and export restrictions, Nvidia remains optimistic about its performance. The company anticipates revenue of $45bn for the current quarter, with CEO Jensen Huang highlighting strong demand for its products. However, Huang criticized US export controls, stating that shielding Chinese chipmakers from competition only strengthens them in the global market.
In response to the challenges in China, Nvidia is exploring alternative strategies to remain competitive in the region. The company is considering offering a modified version of its Blackwell chip specifically designed for the Chinese market. Huang emphasized the importance of winning over AI developers, acknowledging that China’s ability to produce its own AI chips challenges previous assumptions.
Regarding President Trump’s efforts to boost domestic manufacturing, Huang expressed support for the vision and stated Nvidia’s commitment to investing in US manufacturing. The company had initially projected a $5.5bn writedown due to the China restrictions, but managed to reduce the impact through material reuse.
Nvidia’s financial performance for the quarter showcased resilience, with adjusted gross margins meeting expectations. The company’s outlook for the current quarter remains positive, with gross margin estimates slightly above analyst predictions.
Nvidia’s ability to navigate challenges and capitalize on opportunities in the AI market remains a key focus for the company. Despite external pressures, Nvidia’s innovative approach and strategic partnerships position it for continued success in the evolving tech landscape.
As Nvidia continues to expand its presence globally, with recent infrastructure spending announcements in key markets, the company’s resilience and adaptability set a strong foundation for future growth. Huang’s upcoming engagements in Europe signal further strategic initiatives that will enhance Nvidia’s market position and drive long-term value for shareholders.