March 18 Member Morning Report: Major Preview of Federal Reserve Interest Rate Decision Meeting, Semiconductor Price Hike Wave Arriving

[Middle East Situation Continues to Heat Up] Trump says most NATO allies have informed him they are unwilling to get involved in U.S. military actions against Iran, and the U.S. “does not need anyone’s help”; two Iranian officials, including a “top figure,” have been “removed.” U.S. National Counterterrorism Center Director Kent has resigned, blaming Israel for causing the U.S.-Iran conflict. The U.S. Navy’s “Ford” aircraft carrier deployment in the Middle East may be extended until May.

[Federal Reserve Meeting Imminent] The Federal Reserve’s policy meeting is about to take place.

[Optical Communications] The OFC Optical Communications Conference continues, with NVIDIA-backed LITE and CORH releasing future guidance and outlooks for CPO.

[Semiconductor Price Increase] The world’s largest MLCC supplier Murata has announced a comprehensive price hike, with increases up to 35%. The passive component manufacturer Murata has officially announced price increases for AI servers and high-end automotive-grade MLCC products, with hikes ranging from 15% to 35%. The new pricing will take effect on April 1 (subject to order receipt). Murata is the world’s largest MLCC supplier, holding over 40% of the global market share and 70% of the AI server market.