The rapid growth of artificial‑intelligence workloads is forcing memory makers to shift production toward server‑grade components, tightening supplies of DDR5, LPDDR5X and VRAM. This squeeze has already pushed consumer RAM and SSD prices higher and is expected to raise graphics‑card costs as manufacturers grapple with limited memory. Industry analysts suggest that the window for affordable GPU upgrades is closing, and they recommend purchasing models with at least 12 GB of VRAM now, highlighting specific options from Intel, NVIDIA and AMD as the best value choices. Read more →

A senior administration official clarified that not all companies receiving CHIPS Act funding will be required to surrender equity to the government. While Intel’s subsidy may involve a stake, firms such as TSMC and Micron that have expanded U.S. manufacturing are exempt. The Commerce Department also signaled possible reallocation of up to $2 billion toward critical‑mineral projects to lessen reliance on China. Legal challenges could arise over equity clauses, but the administration appears focused on targeted support rather than broad ownership demands. Read more →