Samsung earnings reached a quarterly record in the third quarter of 2026 as demand for AI memory chips supported its semiconductor business. Operating profit was broadly in line with analyst expectations, while shares traded 5% lower following the October 29 announcement.

Samsung earnings compared with estimates

In its third-quarter results, Samsung Electronics reported revenue of 195.25 trillion won, up 126.88% from a year earlier. Operating profit rose 783.11% to 107.44 trillion won. Both figures were quarterly records for the fourth consecutive quarter.

Revenue was slightly below the 195.79 trillion won forecast in LSEG SmartEstimates. Operating profit also fell just short of the 107.66 trillion won estimate.

AI memory drives semiconductor results

Samsung’s semiconductor division generated 147.1 trillion won in revenue and 106.5 trillion won in operating profit. The division accounted for nearly all of the company’s operating profit.

Samsung said its memory business achieved record quarterly revenue and operating profit as it significantly increased sales of HBM4, a high-bandwidth memory product used in AI chips, and met growing demand for server solid-state drives.

The company expects AI infrastructure investment to continue growing in 2027 and says AI-driven memory demand will far exceed industry supply compared with 2026. It plans to increase sales of high-bandwidth memory and other server products and secure multi-year contracts.

Dividend and spending plans

Samsung announced a third-quarter cash dividend totaling 30 trillion won, or 4,601 won per common and preferred share. It anticipates another 55 trillion to 75 trillion won in shareholder returns for 2026, including dividends and a substantial share repurchase and cancellation program.

The company expects full-year capital expenditure of approximately 84.4 trillion won, including 76.8 trillion won for its semiconductor division. That is a spending forecast, not a completed investment.

Next milestone

Samsung’s board is scheduled to finalize the remaining 2026 shareholder returns and execution plans in late January 2027.

Read More News

More FinanceVelix news

Disclaimer

This FinanceVelix article provides general information, not personalized financial, investment, legal, or tax advice. Market prices, interest rates and economic conditions can change; investments carry a risk of loss. Facts reflect the material available when published and may change. Check important information independently and consult a qualified professional when needed. Mentioning an asset, company, or service is not an endorsement.