Moody's: Large chip companies are unlikely to immediately face a shortage of helium gas.

Moody's analysts stated in a research report that large semiconductor manufacturers are unlikely to immediately face a helium supply shortage due to the conflict in the Middle East. They said that inventory buffers, recycling, contract priority, and expanded reserve capacity will limit any direct disruption. They pointed out that by 2025 global helium supply will exceed demand, prompting major industrial gas companies to invest in reserve infrastructure to absorb excess production. They also noted, "If helium suppliers are forced to implement rationing, semiconductor manufacturers may receive priority allocation." They added that semiconductor companies are relatively insensitive to the high cost of helium gas, as the cost of helium gas accounts for less than 1% of their material costs.