US vs China AI Investment War Continues. Then What About Semiconductors?

Summary

Lee Jong-won, Hana Securities team leader, argues the US-China AI war makes physical AI and humanoid robotics an unstoppable investment theme. He sees this week's CPI as a peak and expects market stability after a neutral FOMC. Korea is uniquely positioned to benefit from US legislation excluding Chinese components from military humanoid robots. He specifically highlights Hyundai Motor Group and discusses Hyundai Mobis as a key actuator supplier with global expansion potential and a correction buying opportunity.

• CPI and FOMC outlook suggest near-term inflation peak and market stabilization, with money expected to return to stocks.
• The US-China AI war is framed as an existential, unstoppable technology race where physical AI is just beginning.
• US legislation banning Chinese parts in military humanoid robots positions Korean robotics companies as prime beneficiaries.
• Hyundai Motor Group is at the forefront of humanoid robotics, and corrections should be viewed as buying opportunities.
• Hyundai Mobis is highlighted as a critical actuator supplier, with actuators making up 34.5% of robot production costs and significant overseas revenue expansion potential.
• Chinese humanoid robot makers like AGIBOT and Unitree are advancing rapidly, adding urgency to Korea's robotics development.
• Upcoming events like Smart Tech Korea, the RoboCup, and a US roadshow for Atlas are seen as further catalysts for the physical AI theme.