Applied Materials to Lift BE Semiconductor Stake to 20% in AI Packaging Push

Applied Materials (AMAT) said Monday it plans to raise its stake in Dutch chip-equipment maker BE Semiconductor Industries from 9% to about 20%, deepening collaboration on advanced chip packaging for AI applications. The U.S. semiconductor equipment supplier said it signed an accelerated share purchase agreement for the additional shares, subject to U.S. antitrust review. Applied Materials became BE Semiconductor's largest shareholder after acquiring its 9% holding in April 2025. The expanded partnership will focus on new chip interconnection and packaging technologies supporting next-generation AI semiconductors. The companies have co-developed hybrid bonding technology since 2020, a key process for high-performance chips. Applied Materials said it has no plans to increase its stake beyond roughly 20% and does not intend to seek a seat on BE Semiconductor's board.