Investors closely track Big Tech’s quarterly capital expenditures, but reported CapEx only captures part of the AI buildout. Nine major technology companies reportedly have about $3 trillion in future lease, chip-purchase and infrastructure commitments that are not yet fully reflected on their balance sheets. 1. Where Did the $3 Trillion Come From? According to a Wall Street Journal analysis of financial-statement footnotes, nine major technology companies reported roughly $600 billion in combined CapEx over their latest 12-month periods. However, their broader future commitments approach $3 trillion, including approximately: $1.2 trillion in data-center leases that have not yet commenced; $1.9 trillion in long-term purchase agreements covering chips, memory, power and other infrastructure
SK Hynix Buyback Lands — Will Samsung Match With Half Its Free Cash Flow?
Memory's giants are competing on payouts. SK Hynix's 40 trillion won ($28.6bn) buyback took effect Wednesday; the stock ran up 6% pre-market and closed +0.35%. Per MoneyToday, Samsung plans a returns program above 100 trillion won after this month's board meeting, with 50% of free cash flow, mostly dividends; Samsung +9.29% intraday Thursday after falling nearly 8% Wednesday. Bulls: AI cash flow finally converting to payouts, cyclicals earning value multiples. Bears: payouts chosen over capacity, a late-cycle tell. Buy SK Hynix's buyback, follow Samsung's dividend, or step away from memory?
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