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UTribe Announces Silver-Backed Token Launch While Telling the Gold Story at Davos

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Davos, Switzerland — January 2026 — Ubuntu Tribe announced the launch of its silver-backed token at the World Economic Forum’s 56th Annual Meeting. CEO Mamadou Kwidjim Toure, speaking at the Mindful Leaders panel, positioned the new asset as a natural extension of the gold story he presented on stage.

Toure was invited to join the Unicorn for Good panel at Mindful Leaders House on the Promenade. He made the announcement in front of African and international business and political leaders. Africa House, which Toure co-founded, recorded over 1,000 registered attendees for its programming alongside the WEF.

At Africa House, Toure led the session “Trading in Data: Compute, AI & the Gold Industry of the Future” and joined the “Roadmap to Wakanda” panel, a discussion on how Africa can leap ahead through AI, blockchain, and the IoT.

The launch comes as precious metals reach new highs:

  • Gold: Surpassed the historic $5,000 mark | +72% growth last year
  • Silver: Doubled in value to $100 | +170% increase over the same period

“Central bank gold reserves now surpass USD reserves,” Toure said. “The world is shifting toward commodity-backed stability, and we want to make sure everyday people can participate in that shift.”

Ubuntu Tribe’s gold token, $GIFT (Gold International Fungible Token), represents one milligram of gold backed one-to-one by physical reserves. The new silver token follows the same model. Together, the two assets democratize access to wealth-preserving metals, letting anyone, anywhere invest for less than one dollar.

The dual-token structure serves different investment profiles. Gold offers long-term, stable growth for conservative investors seeking predictable value appreciation. Silver carries higher volatility but offers faster, potentially higher short-term returns, positioned as a performance accelerator within a diversified digital metals portfolio.

Industrial growth in electric vehicles, batteries, solar infrastructure, and other high-growth technology sectors is driving silver demand. Toure pointed to these sectors as key catalysts for the metal’s medium-term price trajectory.

“Africa and Latin America are major exporters of gold and silver, yet historically the least rewarded by the global value chain,” Toure said. “Tokenization restores some of that balance. It lets citizens worldwide invest in these metals at fractional prices.”

Toure was recently featured in the official World Economic Forum January 2026 report published in African Business magazine. In the interview, he made the case that Africa is not poor but illiquid, and that Ubuntu Tribe is building the infrastructure to unlock the continent’s untapped wealth.

“In 2026, we are adding between $1bn and $1.2bn worth of gold into the system to match growing demand,” Toure said. “Our game is not just to make people escape the poverty trap. It’s to create a generation of well-prepared citizens who can navigate the risks and opportunities of democratized investment.”

Since its 2023 launch, $GIFT has crossed $100 million in trading volume. Tens of thousands of customers use the platform, and the wallet has been downloaded over 10,000 times. Ubuntu Tribe is fully regulated in Europe and aligned with MiCA regulations. The company is working toward approvals in Kenya and the Gulf Cooperation Council.

Toure spent two decades in senior finance roles at KPMG, BNP Paribas, the International Finance Corporation, and General Electric before founding Ubuntu Tribe. He was named one of Forbes’s Top 10 Most Influential Men in Africa and is a World Economic Forum Young Global Leader.

About Ubuntu Tribe

Ubuntu Tribe is a Web3 fintech company pioneering the tokenization of real-world assets to expand global financial inclusion. Rooted in the Ubuntu philosophy — “I am because we are” — the company makes access to wealth-preserving assets available to anyone, anywhere.

Ubuntu Tribe’s flagship product, GIFT (Gold International Fungible Token), is a digital certificate 100% backed by physical gold stored in regulated, independently audited vaults worldwide. By leveraging blockchain, AI, and a transparent Track-and-Trace infrastructure, Ubuntu Tribe democratizes gold ownership, enabling individuals and institutions to save, transact, and build wealth starting from as little as 1 milligram.

Beyond consumer access, Ubuntu Tribe delivers tokenization-as-a-service for corporations and governments, supporting the transition to ethical, compliant, asset-backed digital economies. The company champions responsible sourcing through mercury-free gold production and reinvests 10% of GIFT transaction fees into community-driven social impact initiatives.

Complete Gransino Casino Review: From Registration to Bonuses

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Introduction

The world of online casinos is expanding, offering countless options for those seeking entertainment. If you’re looking for one such option, Gransino is a platform gaining traction. However, with so many choices available, finding a reliable and enjoyable platform can be overwhelming. That’s where expert reviews become invaluable.

This review focuses on Gransino Casino, a platform that has been gaining traction in the online gambling community. Our goal is to provide an unbiased and thorough assessment of Gransino, covering everything a potential player needs to know. From the initial registration process to the ease of withdrawals, the attractiveness of casino bonuses, the strength of its security measures, and the overall player experience, we leave no stone unturned.

Consider this your comprehensive guide to Gransino Casino, offering actionable insights to help you make an informed decision. Whether you’re a seasoned online gambler or new to the world of virtual casinos, this review provides the information necessary to determine if Gransino is the right fit for your gaming needs.

Gransino Casino Overview: Is It Legit?

Gransino Casino emerged onto the online gambling scene in 2020, quickly making a name for itself. The crucial question for any player is: is it a legitimate platform? Let’s break down the key elements.

Firstly, Gransino operates with a license obtained from Costa Rica. While not the most stringent regulatory body, a license, in general, indicates a baseline level of oversight. Furthermore, Gransino employs SSL encryption, a standard security measure ensuring that your data is transmitted securely, protecting your financial and personal information. This is a critical aspect of online casino security.

The platform is owned by Rabidi N.V.. Taking into account its licensing, security protocols, and general user feedback, Gransino Casino garners a rating of 3.8/5. While there’s always room for improvement, this score reflects a generally positive experience, so there is some security. It’s reasonably secure and worth considering, like other platforms that offer similar conditions.

Registration Process: A Step-by-Step Guide

Creating an account at Gransino Casino is straightforward. The registration process is designed to be user-friendly and efficient, allowing you to quickly access the casino’s wide range of games and betting options. Here’s a breakdown of the steps:

  1. Visit the Gransino Casino Website: Navigate to the official Gransino Casino website. Look for the “Sign Up” or “Register” button, usually prominently displayed on the homepage.
  2. Initiate the Registration: Click the “Sign Up” button. This will open the registration form where you’ll need to provide some basic information.
  3. Enter Your Details: You’ll typically be asked to provide your email address, choose a username, and create a strong password. You may also need to select your country of residence and preferred currency.
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  5. Address and Contact Information: Provide your current address and a valid phone number. This information is crucial for account verification and security purposes.
  6. Agree to Terms and Conditions: Read the casino’s terms and conditions and privacy policy carefully. If you agree, tick the box to confirm your acceptance.
  7. Verify Your Account: Gransino Casino will send a verification link to your email address. Click the link to verify your account and activate it.
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In some cases, delays in verification can occur. If you don’t receive the verification email, check your spam or junk folder. If issues persist, contact Gransino Casino’s customer support for assistance. With your account set up, you’re ready to explore the games and start playing!

Game Selection and Software Overview: What Can You Play?

Gransino Casino bursts onto the scene with a treasure trove of gaming options, catering to all tastes. From the flashing lights of high-energy slots to the strategic depths of classic table games, boredom simply isn’t on the cards. For those who crave the real-world thrill, the live casino section puts you face-to-face with professional dealers, all from the comfort of your own space. And if that wasn’t enough, Gransino extends its reach into sports betting, offering a complete package for the avid gambler.

Slot enthusiasts can dive into a massive selection of titles. Beyond slots, Gransino deals out a full house of table games, including blackjack, roulette, baccarat, and poker variations. The live casino, powered by Evolution Gaming, recreates the authentic casino atmosphere with real-time dealers and interactive gameplay.

Gransino partners with industry-leading software providers. These partnerships ensure a steady stream of new releases, keeping the game library fresh. The result is a high-quality, diverse gaming experience that keeps players engaged and entertained.

Bonuses and Promotions: Maximizing Your Rewards

Welcome Bonus Details

Gransino Casino rolls out the red carpet for new players with a compelling welcome bonus designed to boost their initial gaming experience. Upon making their first deposit, players can unlock a generous deposit bonus, significantly increasing their starting bankroll. This bonus provides extra funds to explore the wide variety of games available at Gransino Casino. In addition to the deposit bonus, new players often receive a batch of free spins to use on selected slot games. These free spins offer a fantastic opportunity to test out popular titles and potentially win big without dipping into their deposited funds. The combination of a deposit bonus and free spins makes the Gransino Casino welcome offer an attractive prospect for those looking to get the most out of their initial investment.

Understanding Wagering Requirements and T&Cs

Diving into the world of online casinos like Gransino Casino can be thrilling, with enticing bonuses and a vast array of games. However, navigating the maze of wagering requirements and Terms and Conditions (T&Cs) is crucial for a smooth and enjoyable experience. Neglecting these details can lead to frustration and disappointment, turning potential winnings into unattainable goals.

Wagering requirements, also known as rollover or playthrough requirements, dictate how many times you must bet the value of a bonus before you can withdraw any associated winnings. For instance, if you receive a $100 bonus with a 30x wagering requirement, you’ll need to wager a total of $3,000 (30 x $100) before cashing out. This doesn’t mean you have to deposit $3,000; rather, it’s the cumulative amount of bets you place.

These requirements heavily influence your ability to access your winnings. A high wagering requirement can make it incredibly difficult to actually profit from a bonus. It’s like running on a treadmill – you’re expending energy (placing bets) but not moving forward (withdrawing funds) until you hit that magic number.

Beyond wagering requirements, the T&Cs encompass a range of other crucial details. Game restrictions might limit bonus play to specific games, potentially excluding your favorites. Time limits dictate how long you have to meet the wagering requirements, adding pressure to your gameplay. Minimum and maximum bet limits can also impact your strategy, forcing you to adjust your usual betting patterns. Some players encounter T&Cs that are downright confusing or even misleading. The language can be dense and difficult to interpret, leading to misunderstandings about bonus eligibility or withdrawal conditions.

To avoid these pitfalls, always read the fine print carefully. Before claiming a bonus, take the time to understand the wagering requirements, game restrictions, and other relevant conditions. If anything is unclear, don’t hesitate to contact customer support for clarification. By arming yourself with knowledge, you can navigate the world of online casinos with confidence and avoid the disappointment of unmet expectations.

Payment Methods: Deposits and Withdrawals

Gransino Casino provides players with a variety of deposit and withdrawal methods to ensure convenient and secure transactions. Payment options include traditional credit cards like Visa and Mastercard, popular e-wallets, and modern cryptocurrency solutions. This allows players to choose the method that best suits their needs and preferences.

Deposit and withdrawal limits at Gransino Casino vary depending on the chosen payment method. Typical minimum deposit amounts start at a reasonable level, while maximum limits cater to both casual players and high rollers. Details about specific limits can be found on the Gransino Casino website in the payment section.

Withdrawal times may vary depending on the payment method used. E-wallets and cryptocurrencies often provide faster withdrawal processing compared to traditional methods like credit cards. While Gransino Casino strives to process withdrawals quickly and efficiently, it’s important to check the estimated withdrawal times for each payment option. It’s also good to know if any fees are associated with either deposits or withdrawals. All information is available on website or by getting in touch with customer support.

Customer Support: Getting Help When You Need It

Gransino Casino understands that players may occasionally need assistance. That’s why they offer multiple channels to reach their customer support team. The most direct route is often through their live chat feature, typically providing near-instantaneous responses for urgent inquiries. For less time-sensitive matters, players can utilize email support. While response times may be slightly longer compared to live chat, it’s a reliable way to address detailed issues. While direct phone support availability can vary, Gransino Casino provides also phone support to assist with any issue. Furthermore, a comprehensive FAQ section is available, addressing many common questions and concerns. Players from around the globe are welcomed, and support is offered in multiple languages. The quality of assistance is excellent, with knowledgeable agents readily available to resolve queries efficiently.

Mobile Compatibility: Playing on the Go

Gransino Casino understands the need for gaming on the go, and they’ve made sure their platform is accessible across various devices. While a dedicated mobile app isn’t currently available, their website is fully optimized for mobile browsers. This means you can enjoy a seamless gaming experience on your smartphone or tablet, whether you’re using iOS or Android.

The mobile website maintains a user-friendly interface, with easy navigation and quick loading times. The game selection is also impressive, with many of the same titles available on the desktop version. So you can play your favorite slots, table games, and even live dealer games directly from your mobile device. For quick access, create a shortcut on your device’s home screen.

Pros and Cons: A Quick Summary

Gransino Casino offers a wide selection of games and enticing bonuses, creating a vibrant gaming experience. However, some users might find the wagering requirements a bit steep. Ultimately, it’s a mixed bag of exciting opportunities and potential drawbacks that require careful consideration.

Conclusion: Is Gransino Casino Right for You?

So, after diving deep into what Gransino Casino has to offer, what’s the final verdict? Gransino presents a mixed bag. Its extensive game library and sportsbook are definite pluses, providing plenty of options for entertainment. The welcome bonus and ongoing promotions can add value, but it’s crucial to understand the wagering requirements attached.

Gransino Casino could be a solid choice for those seeking a wide range of games and betting opportunities. However, beginners might feel overwhelmed by the sheer volume of options and should proceed with caution. High rollers might appreciate the potential for larger bets, but responsible bankroll management is essential. Sports bettors will find a comprehensive platform, but should still compare the odds and betting markets with other sportsbooks. Ultimately, the decision to play at Gransino Casino is a personal one. But remember, responsible gambling is always the priority. Set limits, stick to them, and never chase losses. Have fun, and always gamble aware!

Last Chance To Join Early! BlockDAG’s Final Presale Hours Offers $0.0005 Entry Into $0.05 Listing

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As of January 29, 2026, the crypto market reflects a mix of confidence and hesitation. Bitcoin is trading close to $89,000, holding its role as the market anchor, while Solana sits around $125, showing stability within ongoing consolidation. This pattern highlights a phase where large-cap assets maintain strength but offer limited volatility.

Solana remains one of the top cryptos of 2026, known for delivering speed and consistency across decentralized applications. Yet, as its market cap expands, the path to exponential upside narrows. It functions more like a dependable network than a fast-moving wealth generator. In contrast, BlockDAG (BDAG) is approaching its final presale hours at $0.0005 before its $0.05 listing. That built-in 100x difference signals rare potential among the top cryptos of 2026.

The Growth Limit for Major Cryptos

Solana remains among the top cryptos of 2026, yet its size now makes huge returns difficult. To achieve another 10x, its total market value would need to reach levels beyond most forecasts. Solana has matured into a large network that behaves more like a traditional stock, offering stability but less explosive growth. It is safer for long-term holders but does not carry the same wealth-building potential that smaller-cap projects offer.

In contrast, early-stage entrants like BlockDAG deliver far greater upside. Its entry price of $0.0005 and expected listing at $0.05 set a built-in 10,000% gap. This pre-established margin is why BlockDAG is widely named one of the top cryptos of 2026. Instead of waiting years for returns, the opportunity exists from the moment trading begins, appealing to those seeking high growth.

Building Resilient and Scalable Networks

Solana remains recognized for speed, processing thousands of transactions per second, yet it has historically suffered outages that disrupted service. Its chain design relies on a single data pathway that can overload when activity spikes. This technical structure causes occasional slowdowns, fueling a search for networks capable of performing under heavier loads.

BlockDAG introduces a hybrid consensus model combining Proof of Work with a Directed Acyclic Graph to deliver stable scalability. The design allows numerous transactions to run in parallel while maintaining strong security. It also supports Ethereum compatibility, enabling developers to migrate apps easily. With its balance of performance and reliability, BlockDAG positions itself among the top cryptos of 2026 by solving issues that limited earlier-generation networks.

Expanding Reach Through an Engaged Community

Strong community engagement remains one of the most reliable growth indicators among the top cryptos of 2026. While Solana has retained loyal users, BlockDAG has mobilized a far broader base before launch. It has already raised more than $449 million from over 312,000 participants, signaling strong trust and anticipation across retail supporters worldwide.

The project’s mobile mining application has surpassed 3.5 million users, granting simple access to daily earnings without heavy power use. This pre-launch adoption represents powerful momentum that most blockchain networks never achieve before exchange listing. With a vibrant community already driving early participation, BlockDAG heads toward its public release with velocity and depth that support its reputation as one of the top cryptos of 2026.

The Urgency Behind the Final Countdown

Timing remains the critical factor separating opportunities in 2026. Solana trades openly on major exchanges, meaning entry can occur anytime without scarcity. BlockDAG, on the other hand, is closing the final hours of its presale today, January 29. The final 1.25 billion tokens at $0.0005 mark the end of the early phase before its official exchange listing at $0.05.

This schedule introduces immediate urgency across the market. Significant capital has already rotated from older projects into BlockDAG to capture early advantage. Delay means paying one hundred times more once it lists on February 16. That narrow time window cements BlockDAG’s standing among the top cryptos of 2026, as access to its lowest price point is set to close permanently.

Looking Forward

Solana remains a stable option for those who prefer long-term security, but its market maturity limits rapid expansion. Its high valuation and recurring network setbacks slow its potential, leaving little room for the explosive gains new participants often seek. The project has become a strong but predictable presence in the broader crypto landscape.

BlockDAG stands in clear contrast. Its hybrid DAG-PoW design, high throughput, and large active community set it apart. The built-in price gap from $0.0005 to $0.05 creates instant upside that legacy coins cannot replicate. With presale ending today, it is one of the top cryptos of 2026.

 

Presale: https://purchase.blockdag.network

Website: https://blockdag.network

Telegram: https://t.me/blockDAGnetworkOfficial

Discord: https://discord.gg/Q7BxghMVyu

Tesla to Retire Models S and X as Musk Moves to Convert Fremont Factory for Optimus Humanoid Robots Production

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Tesla is preparing to close a defining chapter in its history, ending production of its Model S and Model X vehicles and repurposing the Fremont, California, factory to build Optimus humanoid robots.

The decision, which marks a sharp strategic turn away from Tesla’s oldest passenger cars and deeper into robotics and artificial intelligence, is seen as a declaration that the company’s next act — and Elon Musk’s personal financial upside — will be driven less by cars and more by robots.

On Wednesday’s fourth-quarter earnings call, Musk said Tesla will wind down the Model S and X programs and repurpose the Fremont, California, factory to build Optimus humanoid robots at scale. The move comes as Musk has just secured approval for a reworked compensation package valued at up to $1 trillion, a deal that explicitly hinges on Tesla achieving extraordinary market capitalization and operational milestones far beyond what traditional auto manufacturing can plausibly deliver.

“It’s time to basically bring the Model S and X programs to an end with an honorable discharge,” Musk said. “If you’re interested in buying a Model S and X, now would be the time to order it.”

The two models, first launched in 2012 and 2015 respectively, helped establish Tesla as a credible challenger to luxury automakers. But they have become marginal to Tesla’s business. The Model 3 and Model Y now account for about 97% of deliveries, while the S and X, priced around $95,000 to $100,000, have struggled amid intensifying global EV competition and slowing demand at the high end of the market.

Tesla’s latest earnings underscore the pressure. The company reported its first-ever annual revenue decline, with sales falling in three of the past four quarters. Against that backdrop, Musk has been accelerating a pivot away from being valued as a carmaker and toward a vision of Tesla as an AI, autonomy, and robotics company.

That pivot is inseparable from Musk’s compensation.

Under the newly approved pay package, Musk does not receive a salary or cash bonus. Instead, he is entitled to massive tranches of stock options that vest only if Tesla’s valuation climbs to $8.5 trillion over the next decade. Delivering that outcome through vehicle sales alone would be extraordinarily difficult in a mature, increasingly competitive auto market.

Robotics, Musk argues, changes the math.

Optimus is designed as a general-purpose humanoid robot that could eventually perform factory work, logistics tasks, and household duties. If successful, Musk has claimed the robot could become Tesla’s most valuable product, with a total addressable market far larger than that of automobiles.

On the call, Musk said Tesla will replace the Model S and X production line in Fremont “with a 1 million unit per year line of Optimus.” The scale is striking and signals that Tesla is already thinking in terms of mass deployment rather than niche experimentation.

“This is a completely new supply chain,” Musk said. “There’s really nothing from the existing supply chain that exists in Optimus.”

Tesla said it plans to unveil the third generation of Optimus this quarter, describing it as the company’s first design meant for mass production. Musk added that headcount at the Fremont facility will increase and output will rise, suggesting Tesla sees robotics manufacturing as a growth engine even as legacy vehicle programs are shut down.

Investors have historically valued Tesla less like a car company and more like a technology platform, rewarding it with a valuation that far exceeds traditional automakers. That premium has come under pressure as EV growth slows and margins compress. By doubling down on robots and AI, Musk is attempting to restore — and vastly expand — that technology narrative.

This also explains why Musk has been increasingly vocal about a future dominated by autonomous systems and humanoid labor. A successful Optimus rollout would not just diversify Tesla’s revenue streams; it would fundamentally change how the company is valued, potentially unlocking the market capitalization thresholds embedded in Musk’s pay deal.

Critically, the Fremont shift shows Tesla is willing to sacrifice heritage products to free up capacity for that future. The Model S and X are not being replaced by new vehicles or next-generation EV platforms. They are being displaced by a bet that humanoid robots can be manufactured at automotive scale and sold profitably.

However, that bet carries substantial risk. Tesla currently has no commercial robotics business, and Optimus remains unproven outside controlled demonstrations. Regulatory, safety, and labor concerns could also shape how quickly such robots are adopted. Yet for Musk, the alternative — remaining primarily an automaker — offers limited upside relative to the ambitions encoded in his compensation package.

In that sense, the retirement of the Model S and X marks more than the end of two vehicles. Some analysts say it reflects a company reorganizing itself around a single, high-stakes thesis: that robots, not cars, will define Tesla’s next decade.

Samsung Warns of Prolonged Chip Shortage as AI Boom Supercharges Profits but Squeezes Smartphones and Displays

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Samsung Electronics has warned that a worsening global chip shortage is likely to persist this year and beyond, as the explosive build-out of artificial intelligence infrastructure continues to absorb vast amounts of memory supply, reinforcing the company’s dominance in semiconductors while creating growing strains across its broader electronics empire.

The South Korean tech giant said on Thursday that operating profit more than tripled in the fourth quarter to a record level, driven overwhelmingly by soaring memory chip prices and demand linked to AI servers and data centers. Yet the same forces lifting profits are also raising costs for Samsung’s smartphone and display units, sharpening internal trade-offs that underline how uneven the AI-driven cycle has become.

Samsung posted an operating profit of 20 trillion won ($13.98 billion) for the October-to-December period, up sharply from 6.49 trillion won a year earlier and in line with its own guidance. Quarterly revenue climbed 24% to 93.8 trillion won, reflecting both higher prices and stronger shipments across parts of the business.

At the core of the performance was the chip division, Samsung’s main profit engine. Operating profit in semiconductors surged 470% year-on-year to a record 16.4 trillion won, accounting for more than 80% of the group’s total earnings. The results underscored Samsung’s pricing power as the world’s largest memory chipmaker at a time when supply is struggling to keep pace with AI-led demand.

Executives made clear that relief is not imminent. “A significant shortage of memory products across the board is expected to continue for the time being,” Kim Jaejune, an executive in Samsung’s memory business, told analysts on the post-earnings call.

He said any meaningful expansion of supply was likely to be constrained through 2026 and 2027, even as AI-related demand continues to surge.

That warning rattled investors. Samsung shares slipped 1.2% on Thursday, giving back some gains after a strong rally earlier this year, as markets digested the implications for the company’s non-chip businesses.

While higher memory prices are a boon for semiconductors, they are becoming a clear headwind for Samsung’s mobile and display units, which rely heavily on in-house chips. Operating profit in the mobile division fell 10% to 1.9 trillion won in the quarter, squeezed by rising component costs in an intensely competitive global smartphone market.

“Memory price increases are expected to accelerate this quarter and are likely to give surprise earnings, while the memory cost burden will intensify on its mobile business,” Reuters quoted Sohn In-joon, an analyst at Heungkuk Securities, as saying.

He expects Samsung’s overall profit to surge roughly fivefold in the current quarter to around 35 trillion won from a year earlier, largely on the back of chips.

Executives at Samsung’s device businesses struck a cautious tone, according to Reuters. The mobile and display divisions both described the outlook for the year as challenging, citing cost pressures and the risk of weakening demand if prices rise too sharply.

Cho Seung, a senior executive in the mobile division, said Samsung would work closely with major partners to ensure a stable supply while pushing internal efficiencies to limit margin erosion. Still, the pressure is evident. Samsung co-CEO TM Roh described the current shortage as “unprecedented” in an interview with Reuters and did not rule out price increases, a move that could test consumer demand further.

“How the division defends margins as the year progresses will be a key issue,” said Ko Yeongmin, an analyst at Daol Investment & Securities, pointing to the delicate balance between maintaining volumes and protecting profitability.

The display business faces similar strains. Although display operating profit more than doubled to 2 trillion won in the fourth quarter on strong sales tied to Apple’s iPhone 17 series, executives warned that smartphone demand could soften in the current quarter as higher memory costs ripple through the supply chain. Customers, they said, are likely to push harder for price cuts.

Much of the tension across Samsung’s businesses stems from the industry-wide shift toward AI-focused hardware. Chipmakers have diverted manufacturing capacity toward high-bandwidth memory, or HBM, which is essential for AI accelerators used by companies like Nvidia. That has tightened the supply of conventional memory products used in smartphones, PCs, and other consumer devices.

Samsung said it has already begun producing its next-generation HBM4 chips and plans to ship them in February at the request of a “major customer,” widely understood to be Nvidia. Customers are currently completing qualification tests, and Samsung expects overall HBM revenue to more than triple this year after securing orders for all of its available HBM capacity.

The company has been racing to close the gap with domestic rival SK Hynix, which has emerged as Nvidia’s primary supplier of advanced HBM and enjoyed a first-mover advantage after Samsung faced supply delays last year. SK Hynix said this week that large-scale production of its next-generation HBM is underway and played down rising competition, pledging to defend its dominant market share.

For now, the imbalance between demand and supply leaves memory makers firmly in control.

“They’re in the enviable position of being able to dictate price, terms, etc more than ever,” said Tobey Gonnerman, president of semiconductor distributor Fusion Worldwide. “There is ample robust demand, and they can’t possibly fill it all.”