Taiwan Semiconductor Reports Record Sales Source: FT$台积电(TSM)$'s revenue rose to a record in the first quarter of this year as demand for chips used in smartphones, computers and cars surged while a prolonged chip shortage helped to boost prices. Revenue jumped 36% to NT$491.1 billion ($17 billion) in the the first quarter of 2022. Analysts estimated NT$469.4 billion on average. TSM's strong revenue report highlights two key observations: Firstly, demand for semiconductor chips is still strong despite recent recessionary concerns. Semiconductors have essentially become the 'backbone of the economy as they are used in all kinds of digital appliances from smartphones to cars. These digital appliances are integral parts of our everyd