DOJ To Investigate SRAM Industry
So far, two SRAM vendors — Cypress Semiconductor Inc. and Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd. — have been contacted about an investigation in the arena, according to Reuters. The investigation is over alleged SRAM price-fixing practices, according to reports.
On Friday (Oct. 13), Samsung (Seoul) received a subpoena from the Department of Justice's Antitrust Division "regarding sales and marketing of SRAM products throughout the industry," according to the report from Reuters.
Cypress Semiconductor, based here, on Thursday (Oct. 12) said that it has been notified that there will be an investigation of the SRAM market by the DOJ's Antitrust Division. The company said it would make available employees, documents and all other relevant information to the DOJ.
No other details were given. Some believe SRAMs are in tight supply right now. Samsung, the world's largest SRAM maker, is reportedly sold out of these products, sources said.
This follows the current and ongoing DRAM price-fixing probe, which has rocked the industry.For at least three years, the U.S. has been investigating alleged price fixing among DRAM manufacturers between 1999 and 2003. Four companies and 13 individuals have now been charged, resulting in fines totaling more than $731 million.