TV panel prices to fall $1-$3 in July as demand cools

The television panel market is bracing for a price decrease in July, with industry watchers predicting a drop of $1 to $3 across all sizes. This softening is attributed to a seasonal slowdown in demand as the electronics industry enters its traditional off-peak period.

According to TrendForce, a market research firm, TV brands are urging panel manufacturers to lower prices. While major brands plan to concentrate their purchasing in August and September, current demand in July has weakened, prompting requests for concessions. This dynamic is expected to lead to the predicted price adjustments.

Specifically, TrendForce forecasts that 32-inch TV panels will see a $1 reduction, while 43, 50, and 55-inch panels will decrease by $2. Larger 65 and 75-inch panels are expected to face the most significant drop, falling by $3.

In contrast, the markets for display and laptop panels are anticipated to hold steady. Although demand for these panels is also softening, manufacturers are facing persistent cost pressures. This situation makes them reluctant to offer further price cuts, and brands reportedly understand these cost burdens, leading to an expectation of stable pricing for July.

TrendForce notes that while overall TV panel demand in the third quarter may still grow compared to the second, the concentration of purchasing in the latter two months of the quarter is a key factor. For laptop panels, shipments were notably strong in the first half of the year, partly due to supply chain issues affecting other components. However, a significant slowdown in shipments is projected for the third quarter, with a potential decrease exceeding 15%. Despite this, cost pressures are expected to keep prices stable.