Trading Semiconductor Stocks: All You Need to Know

Semiconductors are essential components of modern technology, serving as the foundation for countless electronic devices. As a result, the development and manufacturing of semiconductors have become a highly competitive field, with tech companies vying for leadership in this crucial sector.

Moreover, the significance of semiconductors has sparked widespread interest in trading and investing in the companies involved in their production, with individuals seeking exposure on the price fluctuations of these companies' stocks.

This article provides an in-depth look at semiconductor companies, exploring their nature and importance.

TL;DR

• Semiconductors are the "brains" behind electronics like transistors and capacitors.

• Semiconductor companies design and manufacture these devices.

• Popular stocks in the field include Nvidia, TSMC, and Qualcomm.

• Investors can trade these shares directly or through CFDs, but both methods come with risks.

What Are Semiconductors?

Semiconductors, as the name suggests, are not fully conductors. Instead, they switch between conductors and insulators. In other words, they block electricity, and sometimes they let it flow and are deemed the “brains” of the devices.

Moreover, Semiconductors are made of silicon, germanium, and gallium arsenide.

Semiconductors are important because they help control the electricity flow in electronic devices. (Source: TechTarget)

What Are Semiconductor Companies?

Semiconductor companies are the companies involved in the manufacturing, design, and development of semiconductor devices.

Semiconductor Devices 

Popular examples of semiconductor devices include:

• Transistors: Miniature semiconductors that regulate or control current or voltage flow, amplifying and generating these electrical signals, and act as a switch/gate for them.

• Operational Amplifiers (Op-amps): Circuits that amplify electric currents (strengthen weak electric signals).

• Capacitors: Electric components that turn chemical energy into electrical energy.

• Diodes: Electronic components that are used to limit voltage, hence protecting circuits as they conduct electricity in one direction. 

Leading Semiconductor Stocks

As of February 2025, some of the largest semiconductor stocks (by market cap) include:

• Nvidia (NVDA)

• TSMC (TSM) 

• Broadcom (AVGO)

• ASML (ASML.AS)

• Qualcomm (QCOM)

• AMD (AMD)

• Arm Holdings (ARM)

• Applied Materials (AMAT)

• Micron Technology (MU)

• Marvell Technology (MRVL)

• Intel (INTC) (Source: CompaniesMarketcap)

How to Trade Semiconductor Shares 

One way to get exposure to semiconductor companies' rising and falling prices is to invest directly in them. This method would involve buying and selling these companies’ shares. It also entitles the investor to acquire ownership of the company (become a shareholder). 

While this method may sound enticing, it can be accompanied by risks, can be costly, and can be more suitable for the long term. 

Conversely, those interested in short-term price fluctuations without ownership of the underlying shares may find Contracts for Difference (CFDs) a suitable option.

CFDs are derivative contracts that allow the trader to go long or short on the rising and falling prices of the shares without owning them. CFDs trading allows the use of leverage which enables traders to control larger positions with a smaller initial investment but while it magnifies potential profits it also heightens risk exposure, meaning adverse market shifts can result in considerable losses.  

Conclusion 

Semiconductors are fundamental to modern electronics, driving the functionality of devices that shape our everyday lives. As the backbone of technological progress, the semiconductor industry is both competitive and critical. For investors, this sector offers opportunities to trade stocks, but it also carries risks that require careful consideration. Whether through direct share trading or CFDs, understanding semiconductor companies and their products is key to making informed financial decisions.

Now that you’ve learned more about semiconductors, start trading semiconductor share CFDs with Plus500.

Semiconductor Stocks Trading FAQs:

What are semiconductors?

Semiconductors are materials that can either block or allow the flow of electricity, essential for controlling electrical signals in electronic devices.

Why are semiconductors important?

They control the flow of electricity in devices, making them the key to the functioning of everything from smartphones to computers.

What are semiconductor companies?

Companies involved in the design, manufacture, and development of semiconductor devices, like Nvidia, AMD, and TSMC.

What are popular semiconductor devices?

Examples include transistors, capacitors, diodes, and operational amplifiers (Op-amps).

How can I invest in semiconductor shares?

You can invest by buying shares of semiconductor companies directly or through Contracts for Difference (CFDs) to speculate on price movements without owning the underlying asset.